Why do World Cup teams bring kids out onto the pitch before the game

Question

I'm watching USA vs. Portugal right now, and both teams have brought kids out onto the field for the national anthems. But it's not just these two teams that do it, it seems like every team, even in past World Cups does it.

Are the team players bringing out their children? Or are the children symbolic of something greater?

Answer 1

The kids have won a contest by McDonald's, a sponsor. News coverage from ABC, Bustle, and a Canadian newspaper. They are generally athletes (not exclusively football) and "good citizens." Technically, the kids are bringing the players onto the field.