Whyzard

Why do we yawn?

When your child asks, here's how to answer — in their words, and in yours.

For your child

We yawn when our body feels a little tired or hot, and it's like taking a big, deep breath to wake up our brain and cool it down a bit. It helps us feel more alert!

Heads up

The answer simplifies the process of thermoregulation and increased blood flow to the brain. When they're a bit older, you can introduce concepts like brain temperature regulation and the physiological responses involved.

For you

Yawning is primarily a thermoregulatory mechanism for the brain, helping to cool it down, especially when we are drowsy or bored. The deep inhalation of cooler air and the stretching of the jaw muscles increase blood flow to the brain, which in turn helps regulate its temperature and promote alertness.

They might ask next
  • Why do yawns make my eyes water?
  • Do animals yawn too?
  • Why does just seeing someone yawn make me want to yawn?

Whyzard answers your child's own questions — out loud, in words they'll understand.

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