Child with Science: dialoguing with curiosity

Abstract

Curiosity is one of the most striking traits of children, who eagerly question the world around them. However, this interest tends to wane over time if not nurtured. At the same time, many scientists lack the motivation and training to effectively communicate their findings to a diverse audience. The "Criança com Ciência" (Children with Science) project was created to bridge these two worlds. It aims to teach children about the importance of environmental conservation while encouraging researchers to develop clear, engaging, and accessible communication skills. The goal is to break down the barriers separating the scientific community from the public, promoting scientific literacy and keeping the investigative spirit alive in the younger generation. Children are given the opportunity to ask a wide range of questions about the environment, fauna, and flora, and scientists respond through videos. With 75 videos produced and over 16,000 views on YouTube, topics covered include animal diets, habits, reproduction, natural processes like photosynthesis, and the workings of laboratory equipment such as microscopes. The project involves researchers from all regions of Brazil and international institutions, forming partnerships, including participation from children in Cabo Verde. As more researchers become interested and awareness of the project spreads among the target audience, the potential for "Criança com Ciência" to expand increases.