I was the ultimate geek in high school. While math and science are generally considered subjects where the boys excel, I was always near the top of the class. My senior year, I received the math award for highest math grade of the entire class over all four years. And science? Well, let’s just say that I loved chemistry equations, and I could work a genetics Punnet square faster than anyone.
Sure, I was teased for being a math/science nerd. I was looked at funny for knowing these subjects, because, well, I was just a girl. I also tutored several classmates through Biology and Chemistry, although I had trouble explaining the concepts – I didn’t study much, I just seemed to know the material.
Maybe that’s why I’m now going back to school for nursing: I enjoy science and medicine. (Math, sadly, is no longer a love of mine. I can do basic algebra without problems, but I’d rather never see calculus again.)
I’m hoping that my two girls will also toss gender stereotypes aside and know that science and math are important subjects for everyone – not just boys. These subjects provide a framework for logic and an understanding of how our world works. Actually, I find it upsetting that even science is getting a backseat to other subjects now as standardized tests put more emphasis on english, reading comprehension, and math. All important subjects, but science and the arts are also needed for a well-rounded education.
I think Cordy may have a knack for math and science already. She loves taking nature walks, enjoys learning about different animals, and has a way with numbers, patterns, and shapes that I don’t see in many kids her age. I’m happy to encourage her interests and find opportunities to teach her about science and math whenever I can.
And then there’s the issue of her new favorite book:
(Mommy’s college Chemistry book) She found the book in the car one day and hasn’t put it down since then. She can now tell you about the periodic table, and how it shows us all of the stuff everything is made of.
I think it’s a good start.
** If you want to read more stories about encouraging science in kids, check out today’s PBN Blog Blast. The theme is “Bringing Science Back, Baby!” and if you contribute a post before midnight tonight you have the chance to win a $100 VISA gift card, courtesy of The Zula Patrol.
That’s ridiculously cute. Now just get her in a TUTU while reading that book and my brain MIGHT explode.
And I’m totally with you on the math thing. When we started finding the volume of things that do not actually exist in my calculus class in high school, I knew it was over for me and math.
That’s so awesome! I was one of those nerd science girls too — I still remember people telling me that I had a boy brain in high school when I did better on the math SAT than the verbal.
I am right there with you on the idea that everyone needs to learn math and science. That’s why I work in math and science teacher education.
Go Cordy! I can see her in a white lab coat mixing the next anti-aging serum. 🙂
Might I also suggest the Magic Schoolbus books. They are great for kids and really introduce several scientific topics. I now know more about electric current than I ever knew in high school!
Can you say “full academic scholarship?”
The picure is too cute. I, on the other hand, struggled through math in high school and college.
Go, Cordy! I always wanted to be a math/science geek but after basic geometry left me in the dust and I couldn’t figure out how to balance equations in chemistry I resigned myself to the arts.
I think it’s so so cool to see the traits and skills in your child that you like best about yourself. Like Thalia is very good about eating carbs.
(And am I the only person wondering what the hell a Punnet square is?)
She is beautiful and she can’t be a FULL nerd with that kind a beauty!
So cute. My 4 year old daughter loves my old Anatomy and Physiology book. She can barely carry it, but she drags it out and asks all sorts of questions.
Go you and go Cordy! I was also a math-science girl, and I’m always heartened to see girls with the interest and getting encouragement.
I think it is awesome that she is showing an interest and even more awesome that you are encouraging her.
Girls should feel like they can do anything!
Uh, yeah, I’d say that’s a great start! Good idea!
gosh, i am still trying to get my 2 year old potty trained! great job cordy!