Tips to get started
The ideal age for Build the Change is 7-12 years, but don’t let that limit you. Then, just follow these handy tips to get the most from your experience:
Challenge your mindset
Do you think of play as something that’s a nice to have after doing something more practical? We know that play is integral to a child’s development and the way they interact with the world. It’s our brain’s favourite way to learn!
Prepare in advance
Gather up some materials: LEGO bricks, card, paper, pencils, crayons, you name it! Set aside a creative space, it doesn’t need to be big, just enough for your child to feel comfortable.
Let your child lead
It’s an important part of quality play. So resist stepping in when they hit a challenge. Instead, take a step back and support rather than direct. Don’t give the right answers but ask the right questions… and watch what happens!
Forget right or wrong
Our philosophy in the LEGO System of play is that there’s no ‘wrong’ answer when it comes to awesome ideas. Every idea has value, so let’s remind kids of this!
Be serious about silliness
Children are awesome problem solvers. They don’t see the restrictions we see, and this means new, innovative solutions get a chance. So encourage your child to think big and wild! Let them know that fun, silly ideas are important, and awesome too!
Ask open-ended questions
Questions that start with a why, how or what encourage deeper, more thoughtful responses, instead of a simple yes or no answer. So build them into your play. It’s a lovely way to explore knowledge and feelings about real-world issues together.
Think and build in metaphors
We can’t always create lifelike examples of what we want to communicate, so thinking and building in metaphors is an alternative that comes naturally to children. As adults we tend to shy away from this, but children can use just a few bricks to create endless possibilities. So let them!
Go for the flow
Flow is a psychological state that we reach when we’re playing well. We lose all sense of time and get deeply involved, and this helps us learn. To get into the flow, use encouraging language, pose questions, and explore alternative options. It all helps to deepen the experience and who knows, you too may get into the flow!
Try the extended experience!
Take it to the next level with Build the Change online using your smart device or computer. For security, you’ll need your LEGO username to access the tool, but if you don’t have one don’t worry, it’s super simple to sign up.
What is learning through play?
In the LEGO Group and the LEGO Foundation, we truly believe children have the ability to connect with the world in positive ways, to innovate and inspire, to be an integral part of positive change.