It has been trending news that LEGO has provided the world’s first piece of construction toy set called the LEGO, DUPLO, MINDSTORM sets for kids with autism. It is pretty obvious to all that are keen to know about this toy that it is designed to help them play and communicate more efficiently. There has been a great effect, especially when it comes to building blocks. They primarily use the building blocks in order to build their tower or their house. As you can see, they get involved in their work, and finally, you will notice that they make up a lot of creations that otherwise will not be possible in manual form.
Is LEGO therapy good for the development of children with autism? This is still a mysterious question, and there is no answer to this question. For example, if we have a look at the activity of the children socially, then LEGO therapy seems to be effective in raising such qualities. On the other hand, some observers are of the opinion that the program can create problems in relations because learning with the help of LEGO solitary activity is not acceptable.
A study has revealed that kids with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) play more with LEGO than those who do not have ASD.
Next time when you plan a trip to the online toy store, make sure there is a visit planned for the ToyPro LEGO minifigures as well. There are many benefits of playing with LEGO toys for children with autism.
Incredible importance
LEGOs are just about the best toy ever invented. They can be used to teach and reinforce a variety of skills. A kid who has trouble with particular types of play may improve as they engage in school-related play or fine motor activities. And LEGO is an activity that encourages these very types of play for children on the spectrum.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability that affects a person’s communication, self-care, social interaction and play skills. The severity of these symptoms can vary greatly from one child to another. Some children with autism have trouble picking up certain social cues or learning routines, causing them to engage in repetitive behaviors. They may also be hypersensitive to sounds, light or textures, which inhibits their ability to interact with the world around them correctly.
Social skills
When a child with autism is interested in something, such as toys, it can be very beneficial. The child becomes very engaged and focused on the toy or object of interest. They are more motivated to learn or interact with others and less distracted by their symptoms.
These connections can help them build their self-esteem, confidence and friendships. Of course, with LEGO being such a popular toy, it makes sense that LEGO has made its way into daycares and schools.
Therapeutic benefits
Lego can be used during pediatric therapy to help improve a child’s behavior, speech, and self-esteem. It is important to seek the professional opinion of a pediatric speech therapist when using Lego for therapy.
LEGOs are often used in classrooms for students on the spectrum. To quote Sue Risdon MA, Autism Specialist Training Centre’s FBA training manual, “LEGO bricks are an opportunity to practise a skill or strategy repeatedly until it becomes second nature. LEGO bricks should not be seen as ‘toys’ in themselves; rather, they provide an opportunity to practise important skills in an enjoyable way…the value of LEGO lies less in the product itself but more in the capacity of children to use it as a medium for play and learning”.