Introducing a Second Level of Information in Our Educational Children's Books: The Adventures of Pepo the Copepod as an Example

In a world shaped by scientific progress, it is crucial to instill a passion for science in children. This is particularly true for natural sciences, such as aquatic sciences, which are the most needed to raise awareness of the threats our planet is facing. Effective science communication empowers young minds, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. Communicating science, and in particular marine and freshwater sciences, to children taps into their innate curiosity, fostering a sense of wonder and inquiry about the natural world. Through engaging narratives and captivating visuals, cartoons, children's books, and comics pique the interest of children, encouraging them to explore scientific concepts and ask questions. By nurturing this curiosity from an early age, we lay the foundation for a lifelong passion for scientific discovery and love for nature.

Cartoons, children's books, and comics have a unique ability to distill complex scientific ideas into simplified, accessible formats. Through vibrant illustrations, relatable characters, and straightforward language, these mediums break down intricate concepts, making them easier to grasp for young readers. By presenting science in an engaging and entertaining manner, children can more effectively absorb and retain knowledge, paving the way for future scientific literacy (Vartiainen and Kumpulainen 2019). Scientific literacy is particularly important in the field of aquatic sciences which are usually not a substantial part, if any, of school curricula. The result of such a deficiency in knowledge may be a new generation of adults with little comprehension of the importance of the continental waters and the oceans. To fill this gap, we as scientists should do our best to communicate and educate. In our labor, we can target simultaneously different groups of society, besides children. For instance, by employing two levels of reading within the science communication materials of cartoons, children's books, and comics we can create an opportunity for both children and adults to engage with scientific content. Although the first level of reading caters to children, the second level provides additional information or deeper explanations that captivate adult readers and empower them to answer questions and further explain the contents. This dual approach fosters a shared learning experience, encouraging dialogue between generations, and creating a collaborative environment that enhances understanding and appreciation of scientific knowledge.

As an example, I present a story in which Pepo the copepod explains what copepods are, what they do in the sea, and the problems he experiences during his life (Fig. 1). He introduces concepts such as predation, reproduction, vertical migration, and effects of pollution and presents other components of plankton, such as microplankton and meroplankton. The ultimate goal of this text is to make children and adults aware of the fragility and importance of plankton and the need to take care of the sea. You can find (and download) the whole story at https://planktonocean.wordpress.com/2023/02/22/the-adventures-of-fred-the-copepod/.

In summary, encouraging a passion for science in children is imperative in our advancing world. This is especially true for disciplines like aquatic sciences that shed light on the environmental challenges our planet faces. Effective science communication, utilizing mediums such as cartoons, children's books, and comics, taps into children's innate curiosity, nurturing a love for learning and a sense of awe toward the natural world. These creative platforms simplify complex scientific concepts, making them accessible and promoting scientific literacy. By fostering shared learning experiences, we create an inclusive environment that raises appreciation and environmental stewardship.