When a kid gets lost in Argentina, they have an amazing tradition for helping the parent and child reunite.
The lost child is placed on the shoulders of an adult, and all people nearby clap together in unison. The rhythm of the clapping brings attention to a wider audience, and because the attention of the clappers is on the hoisted child, it usually leads to the parent quickly finding their child.
I love this for so many reasons. It’s pure. It’s ubiquitous—everyone in Argentina knows it. And it’s a thoughtful and creative way to solve a very real problem.
Maru shared a video with me the other day that takes this tradition to the next level.
A child got lost in a public square, and when they were lifted onto a man’s shoulders, a nearby busking group took notice. They started singing an improvised song with the words “Eduardo, vení a buscar a Juan Cruz.” Which means, “Eduardo, come and find Juan Cruz.”
It’s such a wholesome video. Well worth a watch.