Laws are like rules that everyone has to follow. They tell us what we can do and what we can't do. Imagine you are playing a game with your friends and your parents make rules for the game. You have to follow those rules or else you might get in trouble.
In the same way, the United States government makes rules for everyone who lives in the United States. These rules are called laws. They are made by people who work in the government, and they are meant for everyone to follow to keep us safe and happy.
There are many different types of laws, just like there are many different types of games. Some laws say you can't steal or hurt other people, while others say you have to go to school or wear your seatbelt when you ride in a car.
If someone breaks a law, they might get in trouble with the government. The government might put them in jail or make them pay money as a punishment. But if we follow the laws, we can live happy lives and be a good member of our community.