Book 10, Question 67
Why Is Curiosity Good for Brains?
Curiosity is good for brains because it fires up your motivation circuits and helps memories stick! When you really want to know something, your brain pays closer attention. Questions are brain fertilizer.
More fun facts
- When we are curious and expect an answer, the brain reacts as if a reward is coming.
- Curiosity seems to prepare the brain to soak up new information and make stronger memories.
- A study found that when curiosity is sparked, people also remember other things they learn at the same time.
- The basic brain circuits for curiosity seem to be present early in life.
- Curiosity helps drive discovery and learning, and it brings us pleasure.
Sources: Scientific American, Scientific American, Scientific American, BBC
Questions kids ask
How can I use curiosity to learn?
Ask yourself a question first. Wanting the answer readies your brain to remember it.