a lot of rug rats

[Learner_2010]

English Idioms and Expressions, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #41 "American Slang Words (15)", question 3

There are a lot of rug rats in our neighborhood.

(a) rodents
(b) cats
(c) children

English Idioms and Expressions, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #41 "American Slang Words (15)", answer 3

There are a lot of children in our neighborhood.

Correct answer: (c) children
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hi!
why children are called rug rats ? what's the idea behind this slang ?

thanks !
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Little deeds of kindness little words of love, help to make the earth happy like the heaven above :)

[Our Tort System]

Because they crawl on the rug, similar to what rats do.
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If it's not easy, don't do it!
That's how I got where I am.

[Learner_2010]

thanks! :)
_________________
Little deeds of kindness little words of love, help to make the earth happy like the heaven above :)