3 Resources to Introduce Your Child to Inspiring Black Inventors

At the National Inventors Hall of Fame^®, we understand the importance of celebrating diversity and reminding children that there is a place in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) for everyone. To promote greater diversity in STEM fields, it is essential that the next generation of innovators learn to see themselves and others as capable creators and valuable voices across communities, backgrounds and experiences.

During Black History Month, we encourage you to engage in valuable conversations with your child while learning about some of the amazing advancements made by Black inventors. Below are a few resources to check out as you explore innovative role models and their world-changing inventions, together.

Read an Attention-Grabbing Story

The National Inventors Hall of Fame has the unique privilege of sharing a glimpse into the life, lessons and stories of our Hall of Famers. Their innovations in technology, safety, medicine and more have helped our everyday lives in so many ways. This blog will introduce you to five Black inventors who have earned a spot in our Hall of Fame for their awesome achievements!

Continue celebrating diversity in STEM with 10 kid-friendly recommendations to add to your library list. These stories cover a variety of topics from real-life inventors to imaginative adventures and will inspire young innovators of all ages.

Try a Fun STEM Activity

If your child prefers hands-on learning, you can help them practice awesome STEM skills while introducing them to Hall of Famer Emmett Chappelle and his work in chemistry and biology by completing this STEM activity together.

As the inventor of bioluminescence techniques, Chappelle studied an organism’s ability to produce light and used them as inspiration when creating techniques that would help monitor the health of crops and even detect life on Mars! How might your child be inspired by nature – and Chappelle – when they come up with their next big idea?

Visit a Meaningful Museum Exhibit

Did you know that the National Inventors Hall of Fame has a museum just outside of Washington, D.C.? It’s true – and it’s free to visit! You can find us inside the United States Patent and Trademark Office headquarters located in Alexandria, Virginia.

If your family makes the trip, be sure to check out the exhibit “Breaking Barriers: Honoring Extraordinary Black Inventors” to reflect on visionary innovators who have shaped the world around us. You also can learn more about our museum exhibits on our website and get a sneak peek into other core displays and limited-time features.

Keep Learning!

Check out our website to uncover more stories of great inventors throughout American history.