The desire to play is hardwired into every child. Even world-renowned scientists recognize that. Einstein, for one, defined creativity as intelligence having fun.
Consistent to this, the LEGO Play Well Study 2022 found out that 9 out of 10 children think that play helps them try new ideas and do new things. Play and learn may appear to be contradicting ideas but this study from the LEGO Group shows its otherwise close correlation as majority of the respondents said that playing is their favorite way to learn.
Thus, it is important to incorporate a play-based approach in your child’s learning. Below are three classic examples of how LEGO bricks unlock your child’s creativity through fun learning:
Let your child ask questions. Children are naturally curious. They want to touch, explore, and understand almost anything and everything! It is thus our responsibility as parents to steer their curiosity towards the right path. One of the most effective ways is to ask open-ended questions like:
“What do you think would happen if we put these two bricks together?”
“How can we build this helicopter differently?”
“How did you come up with the idea for this pirouetting ballerina?”
Doing so gets your child’s creative juices flowing.
Invest in open-ended toys. Parents these days are led to believe their kids want the latest action figures or newest gadgets, but children are happiest and their imaginations are most active when they are playing with the simplest toys like the LEGO Classic brick sets. These colorful bricks keep kids occupied for hours as they work on getting their creations just right. What’s more is that LEGO bricks do not come with a single function. They are open-ended which is perfect for your child’s creative possibilities.
Emphasize the process, not the end product. Many of the best learning experiences happen when people are actively engaged in making things, but that doesn’t mean we should put all our attention on the things that are made. Even more important is the process through which things are made. As children work on projects, highlight the process, not just the final product.
Studies show that people who have practiced creativity from a young age are more emotionally intelligent, better problem solvers, more flexible thinkers, better able to express themselves, more mentally resilient and happier. Start them young and start them now with LEGO Classic brick sets.
