The 11th of February is International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It enables us to honour women’s significant achievements in science and place a much-needed focus on girls entering Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers.
About International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Women have outperformed men in the past 20 years in terms of the likelihood of earning an undergraduate degree. Despite their overall success, women still only receive half as many STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees as men do. The United Nations took note of this discrepancy and declared February 11 of each year to be the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015.
Women have more work options and higher compensation than those found in many other sectors thanks to the ability to pursue STEM fields. We must make sure that women and girls do not lose out on the growing global need for STEM talents.
This day gives us the chance to acknowledge the contribution that women and girls already make to science, to encourage younger generations of women to consider STEM careers, and to inform men about their responsibility to support and mentor women and girls who are interested in technical and scientific fields in their academic and professional lives.
The moment has come to realise women's full potential in these sectors and to examine how their contributions might change the world.
Activity Ideas For Children
Rainbow Crystal Garden - Create this delicate rainbow crystal garden.
Rainbow Fireworks In A Jar - Explore liquid density by creating a firework effect in a jar with this simple activity.
Rainbow Walking On Water - Children will be excited to see how the colours transform over time as the water moves from one glass to another.
Rainbow Paper - Using nail polish, this science experiment will enable you to create rainbow patterns on paper.
You're A Scientist Posters - These scientist posters can be used as a display that describes the qualities of a scientist and what scientists do. These can be used in the science area to support children's learning.
Further Reading
Examples of STEM Experiences - Here are a few examples of learning experiences that introduce Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics through fun and engaging activities.
STEM: Teaching Guide For Educators - The following article provides information on Understanding STEM, How To Teach STEM, the Benefits Of STEM, Stem Activities and more.
Introducing STEM To Children In Early Childhood Settings - How to introduce STEM into the learning environment.
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