Childhood arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) refers to an ischemic stroke caused by intracranial artery stenosis or occlusion that occurs between the ages of 29 days and 18 years. Although relatively rare, AIS is an important cause of disability or death in children. The etiologies and risk factors for AIS in childhood are significantly different from those in adults. This article reviews the common causes and risk factors for AIS in childhood.