The other day I read an octopus has a brain in each of its tentacles. Besides their central brain, each of their eight arms has a brain. They believe this developed because of the complex environments they live in; environments where there are lots of prey and predators.

All those brains make them very smart. This can be measured by how they take in information and know how to use it.

They know how to problem solve and remember the solutions they have created.

They make wise decisions and are selective in that process.

They are solitary creatures who are a combination of flexible and strong.

And they like to play.

Rather admirable qualities for any species.

And just like humans, they have personalities ranging from avoidant to active and even blasé.

I thought this octopus analogy was a great way to share with children about the nature of intelligence. Yes, an octopus is remarkable. So are we.

This fun fact could lead the way to explore the notion that we also have more than one brain. The brain in our skull is obvious. The other brains in every system, every organ, and every cell of our body may be a worthy discussion.

We are also, after all, rather amazing and uniquely irreplaceable.