@Demo318 @freemo @commandelicious @Katobell If I can jump into the conversation, I have a couple thoughts (because of course I do, I'm a white male).

It's being estimated that "85% of the jobs that today's learners will be doing in 2030 haven't been invented yet." [https://www.delltechnologies.com/content/dam/delltechnologies/assets/perspectives/2030/pdf/SR1940_IFTFforDellTechnologies_Human-Machine_070517_readerhigh-res.pdf] That means we cannot be looking at the job market today to predict involvement for the future. Positions will become obsolete, specifically within the STEM field.

I think one of the failures of our past century was to better prepare kids for the future. We've had an explosion in technology in the past 50 years, and it is not showing any signs of slowing. Instead of educating kids in STEM roles that are currently available, we should be instilling curiosity and a growth mindset from a young age. This is where interest in STEM begins - asking questions and being inquisitive about everything. It also prepares them for the changing job landscape.

My wife said something to me that I had never realized. As a First Grade teacher at an low-income, high-risk school, she said that it is exciting to see the growth in representation of minorities and females as protagonists in children's books. She threw a stat at me which of course I didn't write down, but we are just now providing this overdue representation. It's not enough either, but her excitement came from seeing her children become more engaged in the story because "He/She looks like me!" I use this as an example because it is something I never noticed before (see: white male), but it could make a major influence in giving subconscious limitations. I've been encouraged by the increase in female-oriented STEM toys as well. Something as simple as color patterns can make a huge difference.

In the "nature vs. nurture" conversation, I always find myself focusing on the nurture because I believe we can change that. I'm not discounting nature, but I also am not educated enough to discuss biological differences/genetic makeup. I'll listen and learn. I do know though that steps are being taken towards creating a more inclusive representation of females and minorities in STEM from a young age. We still need to do better, but I am hopeful that we are taking steps in the right direction.

Congrats on your future daughter! I'm sure you'll be the best Dad that you can be to her. If you're looking for some STEM related toys or books for her, let me know and I can send some suggestions.