What do earmuffs, a Popsicle ice pop, and a trampoline all have in common? The answer is right in your classroom—kids! Each item was invented by a kid. I know, get out! Like many inventions, earmuffs and the trampoline were solutions to problems. Chester Greenwood, the inventor of earmuffs, liked to ice-skate but didn’t like how cold his ears got. George Nissen, the inventor of the trampoline, was looking for a way to improve his tumbling. skills. The invention of the Popsicle ice pop was more or less accidental. Frank Epperson had a wooden stirrer in his cup of water and powdered soda mix when he left it outside in freezing temperatures. Viola, the frozen treat, which was later trademarked as “Popsicle,” was invented.
Kid Inventors’ Day (K.I.D.) is January 17, just a little more than a week away. Now is a great time to nurture your kiddos’ problem-solving skills and creativity. Why not ask your students how they would improve earmuffs or a diving board? How could they make spinach taste better? Or maybe they have skills they’d like to improve, like George Nissen did, and have ideas for accomplishing this! And what about you? What would you like to improve upon or invent?
Creative thinkers are our future!
Diane
P.S. The First Friday Giveaway for the month of January ends at midnight Saturday January 10th. Be sure you’re entered!
oh my I would love to invent a way to see behind me and a retractable spare set of hands.
Love your ideas, Darlene!! Especially the retractable spare set of hands! :+)
I would love to invent a way to keep the snow and ice off the roads.
Now this is an brilliant idea! Thanks for sharing, Amy!
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