Why Laughter Is a Superpower for Child Development

Dr Jacqueline Harding, a leading child development expert and director of Tomorrow’s Child, has highlighted the wide-ranging benefits of laughter for children. As an early childhood specialist at Middlesex University, she points to its role in emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Laughter triggers activity across many brain regions, including motor areas and the prefrontal cortex. It boosts creative thinking and helps strengthen memory. The physical effects are just as notable, as it influences heart rate, breathing, and the production of antibodies.

Chemical changes also occur in the body. Laughter lowers stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine while increasing dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. This shift can ease prolonged stress, which otherwise harms both physical and mental growth in children.

On an emotional level, laughter fosters deep connections between people. It calms children’s nervous systems, making them more resilient and receptive to new experiences. Dr Harding’s findings show that laughter supports immune function, reduces stress, and enhances learning. Its impact on brain activity and emotional bonds makes it a valuable tool for healthy child development.