Embracing the Chaos: Why Science and Kids Are a Perfect Match – A Guest Post by Christina Couch

In the 1980s, strange underwater sounds caused quite a stir between Sweden and the Soviet Union. The Cold War was in full swing, and Swedish military leaders feared enemy submarines were invading their waters. But the truth was even more peculiar: the noise came from schools of herrings making bubbles strong enough to detect on submarine SONAR systems.

As biologist Magnus Wahlberg explains, these herrings were “farting” through their swim bladders for several reasons—fear, buoyancy control, and maybe even to communicate. They produce different bubble patterns at night, which suggests that these “farts” help them stay together in the dark.

I stumbled upon this fascinating phenomenon while writing my book, Innovative Octopuses, Half-Brained Birds, and More Animals With Magnificent Minds. This book, aimed at middle-grade readers, explores the amazing capabilities of animal brains—like how certain creatures can sleep with half their brain active or communicate complex ideas.

As a science journalist, I love sharing quirky stories like this. Science isn’t just about precision; it’s colorful and sometimes downright funny. Many kids—and even adults—think science can be intimidating. I used to feel the same way. As a kid, formulas and experiments seemed like they belonged to those who excelled in math and mechanics. I was more into theater, lost in imaginative worlds rather than scientific formulas.

However, those early struggles gave me a unique perspective in my career. My approach is to ask questions that anyone might have, regardless of their science background. I often say, “Explain this to me like I’m a third grader.” By simplifying complex studies, I can translate scientific discoveries into relatable stories for readers of all ages.

I embrace my curiosity and passion for the unusual. My journey has taken me to wild topics, such as anchovy mating rituals and even a cat graveyard of sorts. For kids, I aim to spark conversations between them and their families. It excites me when I hear that a child has learned something unexpected from my books.

In writing Innovative Octopuses, my goal was to show young readers that science connects to their interests. I highlight diverse researchers and everyday people passionate about wildlife and science. One of my favorite chapters features a military veteran who helps trauma survivors interact with parrots, showcasing resilience on both sides.

My hope is for readers to walk away knowing that science is everywhere, whether or not they see themselves as “science people.” Like art and literature, science can be fun, inspiring, and full of surprises. It’s not just about facts; it’s a way to see the world differently.

Meet the Author

Christina Couch is the author of Innovative Octopuses, Half-Brained Birds, and More Animals With Magnificent Minds and co-author of Detector Dogs, Dynamite Dolphins, and More Animals with Super Sensory Powers. She is also the Associate Director of the MIT Graduate Program in Science Writing and has written for various publications like Atlas Obscura and The New York Times.

About the Book

In Innovative Octopuses, Half-Brained Birds, and More Animals With Magnificent Minds, you will discover fascinating animals like an octopus that thinks with her arms and a bird that can take naps while half her brain stays awake. This engaging book presents six animals with incredible abilities and includes activities for readers to explore their minds. It’s a fun way to learn that exciting science sits right alongside your everyday interests.

ISBN-13: 9781536229721
Publisher: Candlewick/MIT Kids Press
Publication date: January 14, 2025
Age Range: 9 – 12 Years

Source link