Today 🧒
Child: Why does everyone like different foods?
People like different foods because our tastes and experiences are not all the same.
Child: What makes our tastes different?
Our tongues have tiny taste buds, but also our brains and memories shape what we like.
Child: How do memories change what we like?
If we try a food when happy or with family, our brain links that food to good feelings.
Child: So if I try a new food and don’t like it, can I like it later?
Yes! Sometimes it takes trying a food a few times to start liking it because your brain changes.
Child: Why do some foods taste bad to me but good to others?
Some people’s taste buds are more sensitive to certain flavors, like bitterness or sweetness.
Child: How many taste buds do we have?
Kids have about 10,000 taste buds, but that number can change as we grow.
Child: Do taste buds work like smell?
They work together. Taste buds sense basic flavors and smell helps us enjoy the full taste.
Child: Can I try something to see how taste and smell work?
Sure! Try holding your nose and tasting a small piece of food, then try tasting with your nose open.
Child: Why does food taste different when I hold my nose?
Without smell, your brain misses some flavors. Smell adds lots of details to taste.
Child: So liking food is part taste, part smell, and part feelings?
Exactly! Food is like a little adventure for your senses and memories. Keep trying new things and have fun!