How to Talk to Girls About Being Scientists and Engineers
How to Talk to Girls About Being Scientists and Engineers
🌟 Empowering Big Dreams Through Everyday Conversations
From the moment they start asking “why,” girls are natural scientists. They build with blocks, mix colors in the bath, sort their toys by shape and size, and imagine how the world works. The spark is already there.
But how we talk to girls about science and engineering can either fan that spark into a flame or unintentionally dim it.
Research shows that encouragement, language, and representation matter. So if you’re wondering how to talk to the girls in your life about becoming scientists, coders, doctors, or engineers, the good news is: it starts with simple, supportive conversations that help them see their place in STEM.
🧠 1. Say It Out Loud: “You’re a Scientist!”
One of the most powerful things you can do is name what they’re already doing:
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“You asked a great question—that’s what scientists do!”
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“You kept trying when the blocks fell. That’s engineering!”
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“You noticed a pattern—just like a mathematician.”
These small comments help your child build a strong identity around problem-solving and learning. Instead of seeing science as something “other people do,” they’ll begin to see it in themselves.
👩🔬 2. Talk About Real-Life Women in STEM
Representation matters. Share stories of real women—past and present—who have changed the world through science and innovation. For example:
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Mae Jemison: The first Black woman in space
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Dr. Temple Grandin: Animal science innovator and autism advocate
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Dr. Fei-Fei Li: Leader in AI and computer vision
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Katherine Johnson: NASA mathematician who helped send astronauts to the moon
Show that science isn’t just for men in lab coats—it’s for girls of all backgrounds, too.
You can even pair this with STEM dolls like:
These dolls not only introduce real STEM vocabulary and thinking—they help girls picture themselves in powerful roles.
🛠 3. Use Words That Build Confidence
Girls are often praised for being “nice” or “pretty,” while boys are more likely to be called “smart” or “brave.” Let’s change that narrative. Use language that reinforces ability, creativity, and resilience:
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“You’re such a great problem-solver.”
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“You figured that out all by yourself!”
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“You were really focused—just like a scientist testing an idea.”
By focusing on effort, curiosity, and problem-solving, you’re shaping how girls see their own intelligence and abilities.
🧪 4. Explore STEM Together (Even If You’re Not an Expert)
You don’t need a PhD to encourage a future scientist. Just stay curious with her:
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Ask “What do you think will happen?” during a science experiment.
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Take walks and wonder aloud about nature, machines, or the stars.
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Try a DIY science activity, like making a balloon rocket or testing what floats and sinks.
Even mistakes are valuable—when something doesn’t work, celebrate that it’s part of discovery.
💬 5. Keep the Conversation Going as She Grows
As girls grow older, their confidence in STEM can drop—especially if they don’t see other girls around them in those fields. Keep supporting her voice and curiosity:
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Help her find books, shows, and camps that include girls in science.
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Ask her what she’s curious about—not just what she’s good at.
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Tell her: “You’d make an amazing scientist, engineer, or inventor.”
❤️ Final Thought: Let Her Dream Bigger
When you talk to girls about science and engineering, you’re not just giving her career ideas. You’re giving her permission to be bold, to be curious, and to believe that her ideas matter.
Because they do.
