Fun facts about Antarctica for kids: interesting things to know

Source: UGC
The seventh continent has always held much intrigue for humans. The region contains loads of information for your young ones’ eager discovery. Here are some exciting details for your child to learn:

Source: UGC
The continent contains some of the most fascinating natural scenery in the world. It is home to unique organisms and features a distinct absence of some of the world’s most common creatures. Here are some details about Antarctica's living organisms.

Source: UGC
Professor Richard Alley, a climate scientist and glaciologist, said in an interview that Antarctica is “gloriously beautiful, very different, and really important." He explained what makes it unique compared to other continents:
The snow has piled up over millions of years, with the weight of more snow squeezing the snow into ice. As the pile became thick enough, it began to flow, spreading under its weight to take ice from the center to the edges to melt in the ocean while still attached as floating ice shelves or after breaking off to make icebergs.
Also, he said, because of human-caused climate change, “at present the ice sheet is losing slightly more than it gains and is shrinking slightly, contributing a little to sea-level rise. If all of the ice melted—which we do not expect to happen—it would raise the oceans almost 60 meters."
Antarctica is not just about ice and penguins; it is a hot spot for science where scientists from different parts of the world help us solve questions about life, space, and the Earth’s future. Professor Alley shares some discoveries from the cold continent:
Professor Alley also shares how scientists conducting research in Antarctica stay safe and warm. He mentions:
- They set up warm shelters.
- They pack smart – food, communication devices, and all the right gear.
- They learn exactly how to use all their gear. The expert points to resources like this for more insights into their training.
These fun facts about Antarctica for kids make it a unique playground for exploration. As budding scientists, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts, there is much more to learn about this polar wonderland. The mysteries beneath the ice invite kids to embrace the joy of discovery and the magic of the unknown.
Legit.ng recently published a list of fun facts about Florida. Florida, the third most populated American state, is located in the country's Southeastern region. It became America’s 27th state after attaining statehood in 1845. The state is nicknamed the Sunshine State for its subtropical climate.
Florida is a hub for local and international tourism. It's sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and unique wildlife draw the masses annually. The Everglades National Park boasts a diverse ecosystem containing both crocodiles and alligators. Additionally, the state is home to Universal Studios and Disney World. Find out more about the state and what makes it great.
Source: Legit.ng
Authors:

Wilbroda Onyango (Lifestyle writer) Wilbroda Onyango is a content creator and writer with over 4 years of experience. She has worked as an entertainment journalist, creating content across over 5 African countries, most notably for Zalebs.com, Young, Gifted & Blacc, and Africa New Media Group. Wilbroda joined Legit.com as a writer in June 2022, covering celebrity biographies, guides and listicles for Ask Legit. In 2023, Wilbroda finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Email: [email protected]

Mary Ugbodaga (Lifestyle Journalist) Mary Ugbodaga is a Legit.ng journalist with 7 years of experience in journalism and media communications. She graduated from Covenant University in 2018 with a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication/Media Studies. Mary previously worked as a journalist at TheCable, CNBC AFRICA, Voice of Nigeria, KPMG Nigeria. Email: [email protected].