My daughter loves science. How can I keep her interested?

Education research shows that while boys and girls are equally interested in science at an early age, by the time girls are 12 or 13, many girls begin to lose interest in science. To keep your daughter interested, provide her with as many science-related opportunities as you can. For example, take her to science museums or zoos and look for a science camp or after school program that you think she will enjoy. Look for toys that encourage her love of science, like Thamas and Kosmos’ “Little Labs” science kits, SnapCircuits, a microscope, or a telescope (e.g., Educational Insights’ “Nancy B'S Science Club Microscope” and “Nancy B’s Science Club MoonScope”). As you explore science with her, try to point out female scientists so that she can see that there are successful women in science.

Jennie Ito, Ph.D.

Child Development Expert

Jennie Ito is a mother of two and a child development consultant who specializes in children’s play and toys. Before becoming a consultant for LeapFrog, she was an intern at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, and later worked as a content expert for the Association of Children’s Museum’s “Playing for Keeps” Play Initiative. Jennie earned her doctorate degree in developmental psychology at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada.