Why We Yawn and How It Helps Our Brains

SciShow Kids

This engaging episode of SciShow Kids explores the biological and social reasons behind why humans yawn. Host Jessi and her robot mouse companion, Squeaks, investigate the mystery of yawning, moving beyond the simple explanation of being tired. They introduce the scientific theory that yawning acts as a cooling mechanism for the brain, similar to a fan for a computer, and explain how taking in a large gulp of air can lower the temperature of blood traveling to the brain. The video uses clear animations to demonstrate this physiological process. The video also delves into the social phenomenon of contagious yawning. It explains that yawning when we see others yawn is linked to empathy and social bonding, similar to how smiling is contagious. Interesting facts are presented, such as the finding that children under the age of five typically do not experience contagious yawning. The content bridges biology with social-emotional learning by discussing how humans mirror emotions to understand each other better. For educators, this video serves as an excellent tool to teach the scientific method, as it highlights that scientists are still researching and debating the exact causes of yawning. It offers a perfect entry point for lessons on the human body, thermoregulation, and social behavior. The friendly tone and visual explanations make complex biological concepts accessible to young learners, encouraging them to observe their own bodies and question everyday behaviors.