Designing, Constructing and Packaging BAND-AID® Activity

Johnson & Johnson Vision volunteers help students sharpen STEM skills at Milpitas Christian School.


MILPITAS, CALIFORNIA – Students at Milpitas Christian School (MCS) used their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills to understand the concepts for designing, constructing and packaging bandages. Volunteers from Johnson & Johnson Vision challenged the elementary school students to think critically and be creative problem solvers during their in-class exploratory sessions.

Developing STEM Skills

In 1929, Johnson & Johnson’s Earle Dickson invented the first bandage (BAND-AID®) using adhesive surgical tape and gauze, two of his company’s products. His invention allowed his wife to dress her own kitchen wounds. Ninety years later, Johnson & Johnson Vision employees challenged the MCS fourth and fifth grade classes to design, construct and package a better bandage. Each group needed to address a common injury to a hand or leg based on a specific project scenario.

In groups of 4-5 students, each team worked together to create a bandage within a limited time using the materials provided by Johnson & Johnson. Teams applied STEM skills and presented their unique ideas to the class. Each solution was evaluated against these criteria:
  • Absorbent: able to soak up a liquid easily
  • Adhesive: able to stick fast to a surface or object
  • Sterile: free from germs
  • Occlusive: air and water tight
  • Flexible: capable of bending easily but not breaking
  • Camouflage: hide or disguise
  • Brand name: name given by the maker to a product


Engaging the Students

“We’re thankful for the employees of Johnson & Johnson Vision who volunteered their time and resources at Milpitas Christian School,” said Robert (Bob) Murray, Head of School for Milpitas Christian School. “Their project-based learning sessions helped our students translate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts into creative problem-solving and data-driven decisions. Our hope is that these exercises will inspire our kids to dream bigger and aim higher for their future goals.”

About Johnson & Johnson WiSTEM2D

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) launched a fully funded Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Manufacturing and Design (WiSTEM2D) program in 2015. STEM refers to an increasingly important sector of studies and careers. J&J added “2D” to its STEM initiative to recognize and elevate the manufacturing and design disciplines.

The objective of this program is to increase representation of women in science and technical fields. A multifaceted approach has been implemented to support and inspire girls and women of all ages in their pursuit of STEM2D studies and careers.
“Thanks to Shaalini Doan, Johnson & Johnson Vision WiSTEM2D Lead, for bringing this innovative learning experience to Milpitas Christian School students,” added Murray.


About Milpitas Christian School

Founded in 1974, Milpitas Christian School (MCS) seeks to transform lives for Christ through excellence in education, relationships and service. MCS offers award-winning education to preschool, elementary and middle school students. MCS accepts students of all races and nationalities and does not discriminate in any of its programs based on gender, race, or national origin.

For more information or to arrange a campus tour, visit MilpitasChristian.org or call (408) 945-6530.
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Milpitas Christian School accepts students of all races and nationalities and does not discriminate in any of its programs based on gender, race, or national origin.

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