Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors?: The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell
What’s inside...
Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors? is the inspiring story of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first female doctor in the 1830s. Despite societal beliefs that women weren't smart enough or strong enough to be doctors, Elizabeth refused to accept these limitations. Facing significant opposition, she persevered and graduated from medical school, paving the way for future female doctors with her brilliant career.
Discussion points
Why do you think Elizabeth Blackwell wanted to become a doctor, even though it was unusual for women at that time?
How do you think Elizabeth felt when people told her she couldn't become a doctor? Have you ever been told you can't do something? How did that make you feel?
What qualities do you think helped Elizabeth succeed despite the challenges she faced?
Can you think of other jobs that women were not allowed to do in the past? Why do you think those restrictions existed?
How do you think the world has changed since Elizabeth Blackwell became a doctor? Are there still some jobs where women are underrepresented?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they know about being a doctor and if they know any female doctors. This can help set the stage for discussing the significance of Elizabeth Blackwell’s achievements.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, and relate them to their own experiences with challenges or setbacks.
Discuss the concept of perseverance and determination, using Elizabeth Blackwell’s story as a key example. Ask your child about a time they persevered through something challenging.
Explore the broader context of gender roles with your child, discussing how societal expectations of what men and women can or should do have changed over time.
After reading the book, encourage your child to think about what they can achieve regardless of societal expectations, and reinforce that they can pursue any career or hobby they are passionate about.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story demonstrates how Elizabeth Blackwell persisted against societal norms and expectations to become the first female doctor, highlighting her determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist in their goals and aspirations, even when they face challenges or discouragement from others.
Example Lesson: Breaking gender stereotypes
Explanation: Elizabeth Blackwell's journey illustrates the breaking of traditional gender roles, encouraging young girls to pursue careers in fields dominated by men.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to explore and engage in interests or careers regardless of gender expectations, fostering a sense of equality and opportunity.
Example Lesson: The importance of education
Explanation: The book showcases how Elizabeth’s commitment to her education played a crucial role in achieving her dreams, emphasizing the value of learning and knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to value and prioritize their education, understanding that knowledge is a stepping stone to reaching one’s potential and making a difference in the world.
Example Lesson: Empathy and caring for others
Explanation: Through her medical practice, Elizabeth Blackwell exhibited a deep care and empathy for her patients, setting a compassionate example.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of empathy and caring for others, encouraging them to be considerate and supportive in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to challenge the status quo
Explanation: Elizabeth's story highlights her courage to confront and challenge the prevailing norms of her time, which limited women’s roles in society.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to have the courage to stand up for what they believe in and to question and challenge societal limits to effect change.