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Book 2, Question 104 · Video

Why Do We Wave Hello?

Video · 1:56 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 2

When we see a friend far away, we don't need to shout. We can just wave. A wave says, I see you, and I am friendly, with no words needed.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hey there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do we wave hello?

The Big Idea

When we see a friend far away, we don't need to shout. We can just wave. A wave says, I see you, and I am friendly, with no words needed. A safe signal from far away! A wave is also a way to be polite, and it is used in many places around the world.

You Spot Someone

Step one: you spot someone. You notice someone far away, like a friend across the park. Too far to talk, but close enough to see. A wave can also say goodbye.

Your Hand Goes Up

Step two: your hand goes up. Your hand goes up and moves from side to side. An open hand also shows that you are not holding anything, so it feels friendly. Babies learn to wave when they are around 9 to 12 months old.

They Read the Signal

Step three: they read the signal, and you both feel seen. They see your wave and understand the message right away. Then they wave back, and you both feel noticed and safe. A friendly wave is a small kindness that costs nothing.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at a wave! An open hand shows friendliness. The side to side motion is easy to spot from far away. And the message is: I see you.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Different places also bow, nod, or press palms. In Japan, people often bow. In India, many people press palms together and say namaste. Some people shake hands, and others touch elbows. All of these are ways of saying hello.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Wave at a neighbor and notice if they wave back. Wave hello to a neighbor or a friend. Watch what they do. Do they wave, smile, or say hello? What does that tell you?

Outro

A simple wave can make someone's day. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this