Okay, maybe you’ve never wondered who invented swim flippers… but here’s a fun fact: It was Benjamin Franklin, when he was just 12 years old. That’s right, kids have been inventing brilliant stuff for centuries, and Kid Inventors’ Day on Jan. 17 is all about celebrating their creativity, curiosity, and wild ideas.
5 Cool Kids, 5 Amazing Inventions
- Alissa Chavez (14): The Life-Saving Seat
Worried about kids being left in hot cars, Alissa invented the Hot Seat as a middle school project in 2014, a device that alerts parents if a child is still in their car seat. Inspired by news stories about heatstroke tragedies, Alissa’s invention earned national attention and has saved lives. She turned her compassion into action — and a brilliant idea! - Anna Du (12): Saving the Ocean
After noticing trash during a beach cleanup, Anna designed a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that detects microplastics in the water. Her 2018 invention is not only a step forward for environmental science but also a reminder that young minds can tackle big challenges.
 Imgorthand | Canva |
- Joey Hudy (8): The Marshmallow Launcher
Joey became a mini-celebrity after showing off his homemade marshmallow launcher at the White House Science Fair. His invention, which impressed then-President Barack Obama, is a classic example of turning fun into engineering, proving that play and creativity go hand in hand. (And yes, President Obama tried it!) - Chester Greenwood (15): Cozy Ears, Thanks to Ear Muffs
Tired of freezing his ears while ice skating, Chester Greenwood invented ear muffs in 1873 at just at age 15. His practical solution to a personal problem became a winter staple, and shows how simple ideas can make life better. - Louis Braille (15): Changing the World for the Blind
Louis Braille was only 15 when he developed the Braille system in 1824, allowing blind and visually impaired people to read and write. His invention revolutionized accessibility and remains in use worldwide.
 Vanessa Loring | Canva |
How to Inspire Your Little Inventor
Got a mini-Einstein at home? Here’s how to get those creative gears turning:
- Ask Thought-Provoking Questions: “What problem would you solve?” or “What would you invent if you could?”
- Make!: Gather some basic supplies like cardboard, tape, paper, string, and craft materials, and set up an "invention station" at home. Encourage your child to sketch their ideas first and then build a prototype. Whether it's a gadget to feed the dog or a machine to organize toys, give them the freedom to experiment and bring their imagination to life.
- Celebrate Oops Moments: Mistakes are just part of inventing! High-five the effort, not just the outcome.
- Find a Contest: Science fairs and invention challenges give kids a fun reason to create.
So on Kid Inventors' Day — and every day! — let your kids dream big, get messy, and invent something awesome. Who knows … your living room might be the birthplace of the next great idea!
Created with help from ChatGPT.
