Introducing Innovative Role Models

“You have to stand on somebody’s shoulder before you can see far. And so, it’s very important that I have a strong shoulder for others to stand on, so they can see far, and they can do greater things.” – Victor Lawrence, National Inventors Hall of Fame^® (NIHF) Inductee

Not all the world’s greatest inventors were born with a passion for invention. Many were inspired by a role model to follow an innovative path. At NIHF, we know that a child’s environment plays a major role in shaping their interests and can have a great impact on the person they go on to become in life.

Studies have shown that exposure to invention in childhood has significant effects on a child’s inclination to invent. At some point in the lives of the most influential innovators, a spark was ignited — a spark that would fuel excitement for creative problem solving through exploration.

For children to become creators and change makers, it’s important they learn about — and better yet, have an opportunity to connect with — diverse innovators to whom they can relate. When they are presented with what invention can look like in their own lives, kids become far more likely to start thinking creatively, problem solving and gaining confidence in their own identities.

As children grow, their self-perception develops, too. NIHF education programs, like Camp Invention^®, encourage kids to see themselves as capable creators, showing them that anyone can develop unique solutions to help others. Through hands-on invention education, these programs allow children to explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concepts, learn the value of intellectual property and develop new interests.

All NIHF education programs are directly informed and inspired by our Inductees and are designed to share their real-life lessons and stories. At Camp Invention, for example, kids are presented with video challenges, interviews and special tips straight from our patent-holding Hall of Famers. Patent holders, who earn four times the average American household income, are often exceptionally positive role models who demonstrate curiosity, empathy and persistence. As children bond with these famous inventors’ stories, they realize that they, too, can accomplish their goals and make a positive impact on others.

Find Out What Families Are Saying

Families across the country have seen the power of NIHF education programs to help children realize their potential. Check out how these parents feel about Camp Invention’s impact.

“Usually, my daughter doesn't have much to say coming home from school or other camps, but she was so excited to tell me all about her day.  She's been using terms that I know she learned at camp. She entered camp wanting to be a chemist when she grows up and left wanting to be an engineer, and she can define ‘engineer’ to me. I love that she can go somewhere where adults will encourage her to be herself and challenge her to think out of the box and problem solve creatively. I can't wait for her to attend for many years to come. Thanks again for offering this great camp!” – Teresa J., parent, Lake Saint Louis, MO

“My child only had minimal interest in STEM, but after Camp Invention he wants to learn more about inventions and engineering! I was shocked at the inventions students made. For such a short period of time, my child learned more about inventions than in an entire school year! I would highly recommend this program to other curious learners.” – Aracelis B., parent, Elyria, OH

“Both of my children really enjoyed their time at camp. They came home each night talking for hours about the activities they'd done that day. They both have enjoyed continuing to find objects around the house and turning them into something new since camp. They also like to talk about facts they learned at camp and have retained. They ask more questions than they did before camp. For example, where things come from, who invented objects, and why some things work the way they do. We can't wait for next year's camp!” – Taylor K., parent, Meriden, KS

Benefits at a Glance

• One of the top reasons parents are motivated to enroll their children in out-of-school time programs is to expose their children to new experiences, ideas and perspectives beyond their everyday home and school lives
   
• Exposure to innovation during childhood can increase the likelihood that a child will become an innovative adult
   
• Research shows that patent holders are successful individuals, earning four times the average American household income
   
• Each NIHF education program is inspired and directly influenced by real-world inventors, including our Hall of Famers and Collegiate Inventors Competition^® Finalists
   
• Diverse role models are important for everyone, and NIHF works to diversify STEM fields, supporting greater representation and inclusion, and creating healthier and more supportive environments for all

Experience the Benefits of NIHF Education Programs

Learn more about what NIHF programs, including Camp Invention, can do for your child.