Inspiration for the Youngest and Not-So-Young Scientistas

By Robbin Koenig
 
The holidays are around the corner and this year’s hottest toy is  . . . (drum roll please) the “Women of NASA” mini-figurine set from LEGO.

Image from Swarthmore.edu

The set tops Amazon’s list of best-selling toys. The figurines include astronomer Nancy Grace Roman, computer scientist Margaret Hamilton, astronaut Sally Ride, and astronaut Mae Jemison. Each set consists of 231 pieces that can be snapped together into a Hubble telescope and a space shuttle with solid rocket boosters. The idea originated on the LEGO Ideas site, a website where the public can submit new ideas for LEGO sets.
 
The use of toys to encourage girls to consider a career in STEM is not a new idea. LEGO already released a line of figurine products that include a female veterinarian, deep sea explorer, aerospace engineer, and mechanic. Mattel has a line of STEM-related Barbie products on the market, as well, including Barbie’s STEM kit, Computer Engineer Barbie, Barbie Careers Doctor Doll, Barbie Careers Astronaut Doll, Barbie Careers Dentist Doll, Barbie Careers Farm Vet Doll, and Barbie Careers Game Developer Doll.
 
Lego recommends this set for fans as early as 10 years old, but we can think of a few Scientistas here who already have it on their wish list!

 
References
 
http://www.businessinsider.com/lego-women-nasa-scientists-astronauts-kit-2017-10/#both-astronauts-will-have-a-mini-space-shuttle-to-stand-by-5
 
http://www.businessinsider.com/legos-newest-characters-are-incredibly-important-for-young-girls-2015-6
 
https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/voices/lego-adds-more-women-in-science-to-its-lineup/
 
https://qz.com/745856/a-brand-new-stem-barbie-comes-with-an-educational-kit-that-teaches-girls-engineering
 

About the Author
Robbin Koenig, M.A., M.S. is an educator with an avid interest in technology and science education. She has taught students in prekindergarten through high school. Robbin enjoys volunteer work, exploring the N.Y.C. cultural arts scene, and anything pertaining to wildlife. 

---

---

Comments? Leave them below!