Laughter Makes Our Brains Happy: Why Giggles Are Good for Kids (and Grown-Ups Too!)

Laughter Makes Our Brains Happy: Why Giggles Are Good for Kids (and Grown-Ups Too!)

Have you ever laughed so hard that you couldn’t stop? Maybe it was a silly face, a funny noise, or a surprise tickle that sent you into a fit of giggles. Well, good news—when you're laughing, your brain is doing something amazing. It’s actually helping you feel happier and healthier!

What Happens in Our Brains When We Laugh?

When you laugh, your brain releases something called endorphins. These are special chemicals that make you feel calm, joyful, and even brave! Endorphins are like your brain’s happy helpers, and laughter invites them to come out and play.

Laughter also helps lower stress by telling your body it’s time to relax. It’s like your brain saying, “Hey, everything’s okay—you can take a break and smile now!”

Laughter Helps Kids Learn Better

Did you know that when you're happy, your brain is better at learning new things? It’s true! That’s why teachers and parents sometimes use silly songs or funny voices when teaching something new. When kids laugh, they feel safe, open, and curious. And a curious brain is a learning brain!

So the next time you’re doing homework or learning a new skill, try taking a laugh break. A quick giggle can help your brain recharge and get ready to try again.

Laughing Builds Confidence

When kids laugh, they feel more confident and comfortable with themselves. It’s a way of saying, “I don’t have to be perfect—I can just be me!” Laughter reminds us that making mistakes, being goofy, and not taking everything so seriously is totally okay. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to grow.

Try This at Home: Brain-Boosting Giggles

Here are a few ways families can add laughter to boost brain power:

• Tell each other the silliest thing that happened today

• Make funny faces in the mirror and name them

• Play a game where the goal is to make someone laugh without speaking

• Read a silly book together and use your silliest voices

A Laugh a Day Keeps the Grumpies Away

Laughter doesn’t just make you feel good—it actually helps your brain stay strong and healthy. So don’t hold back those giggles. Share them, enjoy them, and remember: every chuckle is a little brain hug!