Barbie’s Attitude about Math is Bad for your Daughter, and Here’s How to Fix It.
“Math is Tough!”
That’s what Mattel Toy’s newest talking Barbie said when it was introduce many years ago. Parents, women’s groups and anyone who understands the power of words went ballistic.
It was bad enough that executives at the toy company bought into the false stereotype that girls are no good at Math. But they were spreading this garbage to all of girl kind – using one of the most popular dolls in the world.
Say what, Mattel?
At least the company’s president (a woman) issued an apology:
We need to get more girls interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) . According to Forbes Magazine, “Just one in seven engineers are female, only 27% of all computer science jobs are held by women, and “women have seen no employment growth in STEM jobs since 2000.”
So how do you raise your daughters to group to be rocket scientists, mechanical engineers, and Math professors? Here are some pointers from some fabulous female STEM executives:
1) Buy games and toys that are Math and Science-oriented. Here’s a good place to start:
2) Introduce girls to women role models. Google “STEM professional organizations for women,” and see if groups like “The Society of Women Engineers” can provide members willing to talk with your young ones about their careers.
3) Enroll your daughter in Math-oriented summer camps. Every summer, Miracle Math holds camps that focus on STEM topics. Visit our website for more information.
And, again, Google is your friend. Just type in “Summer Math Camp.”
4) Find organizations that teach girls how to code, that is, how to write the formulas that all computer software is based on. Check this out for ideas.
If you have daughters, nieces, little sisters and cousins, I know you want them to have the same career opportunities as the boys. STEM careers are some of the most rewarding, impactful and lucrative ones you’ll find.
As a Mathematician, I would love to talk with you and your girls (and boys) about my career and how cool Math is. Just give me a call at 707-398-3474, ext. 2700. Or sign up for a free assessment at here. Miracle Math Coaching is an award-winning, student-focused service with a track record of boosting academic achievement. I am passionate about showing kids just how smart they are, and I’d love to talk with you about your child.
So how do you encourage a love of math and science in your girls?
