As any kid will tell you, sharks are totally jaw-some. "You think you understand sharks, and then they do something that totally shocks you," says NOAA shark researcher Lisa Natanson. Even though your youngster might think they know everything about these fish, we bet you’ll find something new here to delight them. Dive in!

TOOTH SLEUTH

Here’s how you can touch a shark—without even getting your swimsuit wet. Shark teeth can be found on beaches, riversides, and even certain landlocked spots. That’s because sharks can shed up to 50,000 teeth over a lifetime—and sharks have been losing their teeth for over 400 million years. That means lots of chompers for your family to find. (In 2023, a nine-year-old found a megalodon tooth in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay!)

QUIZ: WHICH SHARK SPECIES ARE YOU MOST LIKE?

Are you gentle like a filter-feeding whale shark or funky like a uniquely built hammerhead? Kids (and adults!) can discover their shark match with this fun personality quiz. To start, answer this question:  

How would your friends describe you? 

A. chatty
B. bold
C. shy
D. sneaky
E. gentle 
F. clever  

BE AN OCEAN HERO 

In case you’re tired of shark pics, we’ll leave this sea turtle photo here. It’s a reminder that lots of beloved ocean animals—not just sharks—can inspire kids to protect the ocean. Here are some family-friendly tips to get started!

Surprising sharks, looking for life on one of Jupiter’s icy moons, cool facts about flowers, and Viking myths busted! (Subscribe here!)