Why Representation Matters in STE(A)M Education

Sharing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) picture books with characters of color can be a valuable way to promote diversity and inclusivity in children’s literature and to inspire an interest in STEM among all children.

Here are a few reasons why it’s important to share STEM picture books with characters of color:

1. Representation matters: Seeing oneself reflected in the books that one reads is important for all children, but it is particularly significant for children of color. By providing STEM picture books with characters of color, children can see themselves in the stories and imagine themselves as scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. For example, sharing the picture book Have You Thanked an Inventor Today offers Black children an opportunity to see themselves as inventors and important contributors to society.
2. Encourage diverse perspectives: STEM fields have traditionally been dominated by white men, but there are many people of color who have made significant contributions to these fields. Sharing STEM picture books with characters of color can help to showcase the diverse perspectives and experiences that exist within STEM.
3. Promote inclusivity: Sharing STEM picture books with characters of color can help to create a more inclusive environment in which all children feel valued and welcome. It can also help to challenge stereotypes and biases that may exist about people of color and their abilities in STEM.
4. Inspire an interest in STEM: Children are often drawn to stories that they can relate to, and STEM picture books with characters of color can provide an engaging and relatable way to learn about STEM concepts. By sharing these books with children, educators and parents can help to spark an interest in STEM and encourage a lifelong love of learning.

Overall, sharing STEM picture books with characters of color is an important way to promote diversity, inclusivity, and an interest in STEM among children. By providing children with relatable and diverse role models, we can help to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.

I hope that these tips encourages you to add more STEM picture books featuring POC to your home and school library!