I was at something recently that talked a lot about like, girls not having spatial skills and how this hurts them at math. So, like, I'm not going to dig into that. Let's just take it as true.
The same person argued that girls could learn spatial skills by doing ... spatial tasks. They then listed lots of very conventionally STEM-y play and learning activities (building models, playing with blocks, woodshop type activities, etc.).
And, you know what was not mentioned? Sewing. You know what forces me to do tons of complex spatial tasks and basic geometry and calculation type things? Sewing.
My living room is currently overtaken because I have a few sewing projects going -- because I love sewing. I also like building models (especially anything miniature, especially say, for dollhouses or dolls).
I would say I don't understand why sewing and crafting get left out of discourse about fundamental STEM skills ... EXCEPT I TOTALLY DO. And, it's infuriating!
You know what involves a LOT of very precise geometry and math? Quilting. Playing with blocks is great. Building models is great. All these are fine. BUT, I am really weirded out by how we think we need to "fix" girls' assumed deficiencies so they can STEM better.
I am especially weirded out when there are a number of STEM-based pursuits that women and girls have traditionally excelled at (sewing, quilting, miniatures) that have been pushed out of the curriculum in favor of more ... masculinized things.
It's almost like the problem isn't girls' lack of supposed spatial skills so much as the systemic devaluation of the places where girls have, historically, cultivated and applied those skills.
In related news, many students lack the dexterity needed to sew stitches, which is a pretty rudimentary medical skill. I'd say "go make stuff" but then we also get into gendered maker BS that ALSO excludes fiber arts and textiles.
Please, go alter a pattern for an intermediate-level dress pattern from the Vogue catalog in such a way that it yields a functional, well fitting garment. Can you grade a pattern 3 sizes? Can you draft a muslin for a simple skirt?
