Swahili (Kiswahili) is one of the most widely spoken languages in Africa and a great second language for children to learn. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or young learner, this list of 45 English to Swahili words is a fun and simple way to get started!
These words focus on topics familiar to children — family, school, playtime, and daily life.
Family and People
| English Word | Swahili Translation |
|---|---|
| Child | Mtoto |
| Boy | Mvulana |
| Girl | Msichana |
| Baby | Mwana |
| Father | Baba |
| Mother | Mama |
| Brother | Ndugu wa kiume(Kaka) |
| Sister | Ndugu wa kike(Dada) |
| Grandmother | Bibi |
| Grandfather | Babu |
| Family | Familia |
| Friend | Rafiki |
| People | Watu |
| Parent | Mzazi |
| Name | Jina |
School and Learning
| English Word | Swahili Translation |
|---|---|
| School | Shule |
| Teacher | Mwalimu |
| Student | Mwanafunzi |
| Book | Kitabu |
| Pen | Kalamu |
| Pencil | Penseli |
| Paper | Karatasi |
| Bag | Begi |
| Class | Darasa |
| Learn | Jifunze |
| Read | Soma |
| Write | Andika |
| Desk | Dawati |
Toys, Games, and Activities
| English Word | Swahili Translation |
|---|---|
| Toy | Kijitini |
| Ball | Mpira |
| Game | Mchezo |
| Play | Cheza |
| Sing | Imba |
| Dance | Cheza ngoma |
| Run | Kimbia |
| Jump | Ruka |
| Draw | Chora |
| Color (verb) | Paka rangi |
| Picture | Picha |
Everyday Words for Kids
| English Word | Swahili Translation |
|---|---|
| Food | Chakula |
| Water | Maji |
| Milk | Maziwa |
| Bed | Kitanda |
| House | Nyumba |
| Clothes | Mavazi |
| Shoes | Viatu |
| Sleep | Lala |
| Wake up | Amka |
| Love | Upendo |
| Smile | Tabasamu |
| Happy | Furaha |
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