How Laughter and Learning Go Hand in Hand

In education, humor isn’t a distraction—it’s a superpower.

When used intentionally, humor increases engagement, strengthens memory, reduces stress, and fosters real connection between educators and students. It makes learning more human, more joyful, and much more memorable.

As part of International Humor Month, we’re spotlighting five powerful TEDx Talks (plus a bonus talk) that explore the role of humor, play, and creativity in education, from elementary classrooms to global stages.

1. Play Is More Than Fun

Stuart Brown | TED

Stuart Brown makes the compelling case that play isn’t just for kids—it’s essential for learning, problem-solving, and development at all ages. His research shows how humor and play contribute to emotional intelligence, creativity, and long-term brain health. This talk lays the foundation for why fun in learning is fun-damental.

2. Drawing Upon Humor for Change

Liza Donnelly | TED

Liza Donnelly is a New Yorker cartoonist who believes humor is a gentle but powerful form of activism and education. She illustrates (literally) how cartoons and comedy can prompt reflection, open minds, and start meaningful conversations in classrooms and beyond.

3. Hey Science Teachers—Make It Fun

Tyler DeWitt | TED-Ed

In this fun and fiery talk, science teacher Tyler DeWitt challenges educators to stop hiding behind jargon and start telling stories. With humor, voice, and a little drama, Tyler shows how science comes alive when it's fun, and why laughter helps students actually get it.

4. Why Modern Parenting Is Turning to Bluey

Sarina Petersen | TEDxQUT

Sarina Petersen explores why the wildly popular children’s show Bluey has become a parenting phenomenon and what educators can learn from it. Her insights highlight how humor, empathy, and imaginative play help kids (and adults) navigate life with joy and resilience.

5. Do Schools Kill Creativity?

Sir Ken Robinson | TED

A TED classic with over 75 million views, this talk blends wit, insight, and critique as Sir Ken Robinson argues that schools need to nurture—not stifle—creativity. His humorous delivery makes serious points land with impact, and his legacy continues to inspire a more human, playful approach to learning.

Bonus: Humor in the Classroom

Dave Tarvin | AATH

While this isn’t a TEDx talk, AATH’s own Dave Tarvin shares practical and powerful ways humor transforms the learning experience. From building trust to deepening engagement, Dave walks the talk of using humor not just as entertainment, but as a strategic educational tool.

🍎 Learning Is Better When It’s Fun

From preschool to post-grad, humor makes learning more accessible, meaningful, and lasting. These talks remind us that when we laugh, we listen, and when we’re having fun, we’re more open to growth.

🎯 TEDx Talk Challenge:

Watch one of the talks above.
Reflect on how you’ve experienced humor in learning as a student or teacher.
Share your thoughts in the AATH Facebook Group or on social using #InternationalHumorMonth.