Despite what you may think becoming an inventor is not just an adult job. Throughout history there are many innovative little learners who created some of the most well-known inventions today. January 17th is Kid Inventors' Day (did you notice it spells K.I.D?), and we want to celebrate by sharing some of their amazing stories.
These incredible stories are sure to inspire any child who dreams of creating something scientifically amazing! We also address ways to spark young kids' imaginations, foster creativity, and teach them to always “try, try, try again!”
Some Well Known Kid Inventors
George Nissen
At the young age of 16, George invented one of the most entertaining outdoor activities known today: the trampoline. George invented the trampoline way back in 1930 after watching a trapeze artist drop into the safety nets beneath him. Trampolines help kids get more exercise, and develop their balance and agility as well, but most of all they are tons of fun! Thank you, George!
Chester Greenwood
Back in 1877 15-year-old Chester Greenwood was cold, but instead of simply complaining he did something about it and invented ear muffs! He took a wire frame, had his grandmother sew a piece of beaver of skin to the ends, and ear muffs were born. This ingenious invention even helped World War I soldiers avoid frostbite! The ear muff evolved into the kinds of hearing protection we wear today to keep us safe from loud noises, and modern ear muffs not only keep you warm but they are an important fashion statement as well!
Frank Epperson
Who doesn't love a delicious popsicle? I bet you didn't know, though, that this sugary treat was created in 1905 by 11-year-old Frank Epperson! Frank's discovery of the popsicle happened by accident when he left a cup filled with a soda powder, water, and a stirring stick on his porch overnight where it froze. It took Frank a while to turn this happy accident into today's modern popsicle - he didn't start selling his yummy invention until 20 years later! We are all grateful Frank didn't keep this ingenius idea to himself!
Sarah Buckel
14 year old Sarah Buckel invented magnetic locker wallpaper back in 2006. Sarah was tired of the tedious task of scraping her locker to clean at the end of the year, so she invented an easier solution! We love it when kids take a problem they have and turn it into an invention! Now, thanks to Sarah, young students can bring out their own creativity with customized locker spaces at school.
Abbey Fleck
In 1993 eight-year-old Abbey Fleck invented one of the simplest ways to make bacon. Abbey's family didn't have enough paper towels to soak up bacon grease, so Abbey figured a better way to cook her bacon. After a little trial and error and a good deal of perseverance, Abbey invented 'Makin Bacon'. Thanks to Abbey we have a safer, healthier way to cook one of our favorite foods!
Alissa Chavez
In 2014, 14-year-old Alissa Chavez invented the 'Hot Seat'. Alissa was distraught after hearing stories about children who died after being left in hot cars, so she decided to do something about it. She created a small sensor that is placed in a car seat along with a child, and this sensor is connected to the parents' smart phone. If the cushion senses that the cell phone has moved more than 20 feet from the car with the baby still in the seat, it sounds an alarm to alert the parents. Alissa's ingenuity and desire to make babies safer has literally saved lives!
Louis Braille
We all know what Braille is, but did you know that is was invented in 1854 by its 15-year-old namesake, Louis Braille? Louis suffered an eye injury when he was three years old which rendered him blind. Over the years Louis taught himself the silent method of communication that we know as Braille today. The ground-breaking invention has improved the lives of visually impaired worldwide!
Your Child Can Be an Inventor Too!
There are many ways to bring out the inventor in your child. Their curious minds love to explore and analyze the world around them. It's important to create an environment that will foster creativity and innovation in your child's mind. Encourage your child to focus on their strengths instead of their weaknesses, and build resilience by helping them learn from mistakes instead of losing themselves to disappointment. Perseverance and motivation are key! When they come across obstacles or challenges in their life, ask them to think of solutions and innovative new ways to solve problems!
Science Wide Open
We love to encourage little scientists every day! Help bring out the inner inventor in your child with our Science Wide Open collection. This series teaches young children about chemistry, biology, and physics, while highlighting many of the mind-blowing achievements of women in science! While reading through this inspiring book you will follow a young protagonist who asks questions about the world around her, and a scientifically astute narrator whose answers are crafted to be both accurate and understandable for your little one's mind. These books will help create a strong foundation in biology, chemistry and physics and gives them a great starting point for their innovative future!