The Surprising History of ‘Kid Inventions’ That Turned Out to be Already Invented
In the world of innovation, children often come up with brilliant ideas that seem unique and groundbreaking. However, many of these so-called "kid inventions" have actually been realized by adults years or even centuries before. Let’s explore the fascinating history behind some of these inventions and the stories of how they were created.
The Tale of the Pencil Sharpener
One of the most classic "kid inventions" is the manual pencil sharpener. Many children have been praised for their ingenious idea of creating a handheld device that can sharpen pencils with ease. But did you know that the pencil sharpener was actually invented in the 17th century by a French mathematician named Bernard Lassimone?
Lassimone’s invention, known as the "pencil cutter," was a simple handheld tool that revolutionized the way people sharpened their pencils. It featured a rotating blade housed in a wooden casing, allowing users to sharpen their pencils quickly and efficiently. The design was so effective that it became a staple in schools and offices around the world.
From Children’s Play to Patented Product: The Story of the Trampoline
Another invention that is often credited to children is the trampoline. Kids have been bouncing on makeshift trampolines made from bedsheets and springs for decades, leading many to believe that they were the original creators of this fun and exhilarating device. However, the trampoline was actually invented in the 1930s by George Nissen and Larry Griswold, two gymnasts looking for a way to improve their training routines.
Nissen and Griswold’s invention quickly gained popularity among athletes and circus performers, leading to the creation of the modern trampoline we know today. While children may have popularized the concept of bouncing on a spring-loaded surface, it was the ingenuity of Nissen and Griswold that turned the trampoline into a patented product.
The Curious Case of the Inflatable Wheel
One of the more recent "kid inventions" that turned out to be already invented is the inflatable wheel. Children have been known to come up with the idea of using inflatable tires on bikes and wagons to create a smoother ride. However, the concept of the inflatable wheel dates back to the late 19th century when Irish engineer John Boyd Dunlop created the world’s first pneumatic tire.
Dunlop’s invention revolutionized the automotive industry, providing a more comfortable and efficient way to travel on rough terrain. While children may have unknowingly reinvented the concept of the inflatable wheel, it was Dunlop’s pioneering work that paved the way for modern tire technology.
FAQs
Q: Are all kid inventions inspired by adults?
A: While many "kid inventions" have been previously realized by adults, children have also come up with truly original ideas that have changed the world.
Q: How can parents encourage their children’s creativity?
A: Parents can nurture their children’s creativity by providing them with opportunities for exploration, experimentation, and hands-on learning experiences.
Q: Are there any famous inventions created by children?
A: Yes, there have been instances where children have invented groundbreaking products, such as the trampoline invented by George Nissen and Larry Griswold.
Conclusion
The history of "kid inventions" that turned out to be already invented is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of both children and adults. While many children have unknowingly reinvented existing concepts, their inventive spirit has inspired generations of innovators to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what is possible. So, the next time your child comes to you with a brilliant idea, remember that even if it’s not entirely original, it may still hold the potential to change the world.