Today 🧒
Child: Why is yawning sometimes contagious?
Yawning can spread because seeing or hearing someone yawn makes our brain want to do the same. It’s like copying a friend.
Child: How does my brain know to copy yawns?
Our brain notices others’ feelings and actions. When we see yawns, special parts of the brain connect and trigger a yawn in us too.
Child: Why do we even yawn at all?
Yawning helps cool the brain and get more oxygen. It also helps us feel more awake or relaxed.
Child: What happens if I don’t yawn when I see someone else yawn?
Sometimes it doesn’t happen. People who don’t feel connected or are very focused might not catch the yawn.
Child: How do scientists know yawning is contagious?
They watch groups of people and count how many yawn after seeing others. They also test it with videos or sounds of yawns.
Child: Does everyone yawn the same way?
Mostly yes, but some people yawn more or less often. Kids and adults both yawn, but babies do it differently since their brains are still growing.
Child: Can animals yawn too?
Yes! Dogs, cats, and even chimpanzees yawn, and their yawns can be contagious too among their friends.
Child: Is yawning like laughing or smiling?
Good thought! Like yawning, laughing and smiling can spread because they help us connect and share feelings.
Child: Can I try to make you yawn by yawning?
You can! Let’s try it now. When I yawn, watch closely and see if you start to yawn too.
Child: That was fun! Why should I care about yawns?
Yawns show how we connect with others without words. Keep noticing little things like this—it helps you understand people better!