This children’s article, What is Lent and why do millions of people give things up for 40 days?, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and explore an important tradition followed by many Christians around the world. Readers will discover what Lent is, why it lasts 40 days, and how people observe it in everyday life. Written by Sinead O’Carroll, an experienced teacher and writer for English News For Kids.
Making a surprising promise
Each year, many children and adults make a small promise to change one of their habits. It might mean skipping an after-dinner biscuit, avoiding sweets, or putting away a favourite game for several weeks.
Around the world, people make choices like this during a season called Lent. Lent is an important part of the Christian calendar. It lasts for about 40 days and leads up to the celebration of Easter, one of the most important Christian festivals.
During Lent, people often try to slow down and think carefully about their lives. Some give something up, while others try to start a positive habit. The goal is to make small changes that help people focus on kindness, reflection, and the things that matter most.
The idea of giving something up
One of the best-known Lent traditions is giving something up. Chocolate, sweets, fizzy drinks, or social media are common choices. The goal is not simply to miss a favourite treat. Many people see it as a way to practise self-control and focus on what really matters to them.
Some people choose to add something positive instead. A person might spend more time helping family members, reading, praying, or doing kind things for others.
Children sometimes take part too. A class might collect money for charity, help with extra jobs at home, or try to be especially kind to classmates.
Why 40 days?
The number 40 is important in Christian tradition. The Bible describes how Jesus spent 40 days in the desert, praying and fasting before he began teaching people.
The season begins on a day called Ash Wednesday. In some churches, a small cross made of ash is placed on a person’s forehead during a special service. The ash symbolises reflection and a fresh start.
Anyone who would like to learn more about the history of Lent can explore this page from Britannica – Lent.
Traditions in different countries
Lent is observed in many parts of the world, although traditions can vary from place to place.
In some Christian communities, people avoid eating meat on Fridays, especially during Lent. Fish becomes a popular meal on those days. Some people also fast, which means eating less food or skipping certain meals.
The day before Lent begins can also be lively and fun. Some families celebrate Pancake Day, also called Shrove Tuesday. Kitchens fill with the smell of frying pancakes while people enjoy sweet toppings before the quieter season of Lent begins.
A time to pause
Life can often feel busy. School, work, hobbies, and screens can fill every hour of the day. Lent gives many people a chance to pause and think about the important and special things in their lives.
For millions of people around the world, Lent is therefore more than a rule or a challenge. It is a time for reflection, kindness, and thoughtful choices before Easter arrives.
Article vocabulary list
- Lent: A period of about 40 days in the Christian calendar before Easter.
- Tradition: A custom or activity that people have followed for many years.
- Self-control: The ability to stop yourself from doing something you want to do.
- Fasting: Eating less food or not eating certain foods for a period of time.
- Reflection: Careful thinking about your actions, ideas, or beliefs.
- Charity: Giving money, help, or support to people who need it.
- Desert: A very dry place with little rain and very few plants.
- Symbolises: Represents or stands for an idea.
Comprehension questions
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1. How long does Lent usually last?
a) 10 days
b) About 40 days
c) 100 days
Answer: b) About 40 days
2. What do many people choose to give up during Lent?
a) Homework
b) Chocolate or sweets
c) School
Answer: b) Chocolate or sweets
3. Which festival comes after Lent?
a) Christmas
b) Easter
c) Halloween
Answer: b) Easter
4. Where did Jesus spend 40 days according to the Bible?
a) In the desert
b) On a mountain
c) In a city
Answer: a) In the desert
5. What food do some people avoid eating on Fridays during Lent?
a) Fruit
b) Bread
c) Meat
Answer: c) Meat
6. What is one reason people observe Lent?
a) To practise reflection and kindness
b) To travel around the world
c) To celebrate a birthday
Answer: a) To practise reflection and kindness
Sinead is a writer and EFL teacher with eight years’ experience. She’s a native English speaker who loves making news stories fun and easy to understand for children around the world. Her passions include travel, animals, and helping to make the world a kinder, more sustainable place.
