ABSTRACT

Even with increased pressure to involve more girls in STEM areas in education, parents are often left wondering what they can do to keep their daughter's love of science, math, and technology from fading. In Breaking Through! Helping Girls Succeed in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, topics ranging from how role models can make a difference to finding nonstereotypical toys and taking trips that inspire STEM discovery and engagement are illustrated with research evidence and real-life examples from girls and women. Regardless of a daughter's age (from birth to young adulthood), parents will find tips they can immediately use to help combat the gender imbalance in STEM areas. Whether they need to advocate for gender-neutral, STEM-enriched classrooms or want to encourage creative problem solving and persistence in their daughters, readers will find ideas to take action to help the girls in their lives break through the barriers and achieve success in STEM.

2017 NAGC Book of the Year Award Winner

part Section I|18 pages

Introduction

chapter Chapter 2|8 pages

Gender Diversity in STEM

The Changing Landscape

part Section II|43 pages

What the Research Tells Us About Obstacles and Opportunities

chapter Chapter 3|9 pages

Double Trouble—Stereotypes About STEM and Gender

chapter Chapter 5|10 pages

Opening Your Daughter's World to STEM Experiences

chapter Chapter 6|9 pages

How Role Models and Mentors Make a Difference

part Section III|55 pages

How Can We Transform the Picture of Girls and Women in STEM?

chapter Chapter 7|11 pages

Advocacy

A Key Way to Transform Obstacles Into Opportunities

chapter Chapter 9|14 pages

Providing Girls With Engaging STEM Experiences

chapter Chapter 10|21 pages

Increasing Access to Effective Role Models

part Section IV|75 pages

Time for Action

chapter Chapter 11|12 pages

Helping Girls Become Critical Viewers of the Media

chapter Chapter 13|18 pages

Exploring STEM Through Toys, Games, and Activities

chapter Chapter 14|9 pages

Stepping Out

Exploring STEM Through Outdoor Activities and Trips

chapter Chapter 16|11 pages

Preparing Girls for Engagement in STEM After High School

part Section V|39 pages

Advocating in the Educational System

part Section VI|33 pages

Advising Your Daughter in College and Beyond

chapter Chapter 21|8 pages

Increasing Your Daughter's Sense of Belonging in STEM

chapter Chapter 22|13 pages

Looking Ahead

Exploring Careers and Creating a Satisfying Work and Personal Life