TEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is a world full of discovery, but for centuries, women had to fight for a seat at the innovation table. Thankfully, brilliant trailblazers paved the way, proving that science isn’t just for the boys' club!
Today, we celebrate some of the most influential women in STEM and show you how to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators—starting with something as simple (and fun) as hands-on play with Biggo Blocks!
Let’s dive into the stories of some STEM superstars and explore awesome activities that will get kids thinking like problem-solvers.
Trailblazing Women in STEM & Biggo Blocks Activities
1. Ada Lovelace – The First Computer Programmer
Before computers even existed, Ada Lovelace envisioned them. She wrote the first-ever algorithm in the 1840s, making her the world’s first programmer.
Biggo Blocks Activity: "Coding Without a Computer"
Challenge kids to create patterns using jumbo building blocks to mimic basic coding sequences. For example, assign colors to different "commands" and have kids arrange them in a sequence—just like a line of code!
2. Katherine Johnson – NASA’s Human Computer
Ever heard of the phrase “hidden figures”? Katherine Johnson was one of them! Her calculations sent astronauts to space and brought them home safely. Without her, the moon landing might not have happened!
Biggo Blocks Activity: "Build a Rocket Launchpad"
Using extra-large building blocks, design a sturdy launchpad. Add a tower for "mission control" and test different heights to see which design is most stable—just like NASA engineers!
3. Marie Curie – The Nobel Prize-Winning Chemist
Marie Curie changed science forever by discovering radioactivity. Not only was she the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, but she’s still the only person to win in two different scientific fields!
Biggo Blocks Activity: "Build a Lab Station"
Create a chemistry lab setup using jumbo blocks. Include different “experiment stations” and encourage kids to role-play as scientists mixing (pretend) potions.
4. Dr. Mae Jemison – First Black Woman in Space
Dr. Mae Jemison didn't just dream of space—she went there! As the first Black woman to travel to space, she proved that no dream is too big.
Biggo Blocks Activity: "Construct a Space Shuttle"
Design a model space shuttle with jumbo building blocks. Experiment with different designs to find the most aerodynamic shape. Bonus points for adding an astronaut figure!
STEM Challenges to Inspire Future Innovators
Want more hands-on STEM fun? Try these challenges with Biggo Blocks:
Simple Machines in Action: Use jumbo blocks to build a lever, pulley, or inclined plane. Discover how engineers use these tools to make life easier!
Build the Strongest Bridge: Can you build a bridge using extra-large blocks that can support the weight of a book? Experiment with different structures to test strength and stability.
Tower Engineering Challenge: How tall can you go before it falls? Try stacking jumbo blocks as high as possible while keeping the structure stable.
Empowering the Next Generation
Women in STEM have reshaped our world, and with the right encouragement, today’s kids can be the innovators of tomorrow. Whether they dream of being an astronaut, a scientist, or an engineer, hands-on play is the first step in fostering curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Encourage your child to Think Big. Build Bigger. with Biggo Blocks, and let their creativity take them to new heights!
What will you build today? Try one of these STEM challenges and share your creations with us!