Cousin facts for kids

A cousin is a special kind of relative in your family tree. They aren't your direct ancestor (like a grandparent) or descendant (like a child). Instead, a cousin is someone you share a common ancestor with, like a grandparent or great-grandparent.

When most people say "cousin," they usually mean a first cousin. This is the child of your aunt or uncle. Your first cousins share the same grandparents as you.

A family tree showing how each person is related to the orange person.

Understanding Cousin Relationships

Cousin relationships can get a bit tricky, but they follow a pattern based on how far back you share a common ancestor and if you are in the same generation.

What is a First Cousin?

Your first cousin is the child of your aunt or uncle. This means you both share the same set of grandparents. You are in the same generation.

What is a Second Cousin?

A second cousin is a bit further away. You share a common ancestor who is your great-grandparent. So, your second cousin is the grandchild of your great-aunt or great-uncle. You are still in the same generation.

What is a Third Cousin?

A third cousin shares a great-great-grandparent with you. They are the great-grandchild of your great-great-aunt or great-great-uncle. Again, you are in the same generation.

What Does "Removed" Mean?

Sometimes, you might hear terms like "first cousin once removed" or "second cousin twice removed." The word "removed" means that you and your cousin are from different generations.

• Once removed: This means there is one generation difference between you and your cousin.

* For example, your first cousin's child is your first cousin once removed. They are one generation younger than you. * Also, your parent's first cousin is your first cousin once removed. They are one generation older than you.

• Twice removed: This means there is a two-generation difference.

* Your first cousin's grandchild would be your first cousin twice removed.

So, the "degree" (first, second, third) tells you how many generations back you share a common ancestor. The "removed" part tells you if you are in different generations.

Images for kids

• 

  Queen Victoria and her cousin Princess Victoria, Duchess of Nemours, 1852