The Department of Early Childhood Education hosted the LEGO® Brick-by-Brick Programme workshop on 23 February 2024. This engaging and collaborative event provided students with invaluable insights into improving communication skills, particularly for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social Communication Disorder (SCD).
Led by a registered psychologist, 14 enthusiastic participants attended the 3-hour workshop. Its primary objective was to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively facilitate social communication skills in children, with a particular focus on those with special educational needs. Throughout the workshop, participants learned how to organize and implement social activities using LEGO bricks as a therapeutic tool.
The workshop served as a platform for students to explore various concepts, including collaboration and innovation. Most importantly, they witnessed firsthand how the power of LEGO bricks can significantly enhance the communication skills of children with diverse needs, such as ASD and SCD. The inclusive and supportive environment fostered creativity and enabled every participant to unlock their full potential.
Students shared their reflections on the valuable techniques they learned at the end of workshop. They appreciated the opportunity to gain practical experience in using different methods and effective tools that align with the communication patterns of children with special educational needs. The workshop not only lightened their workload when assisting these children, but also introduced them to a therapeutic approach to playing with LEGO bricks.
Figure 1: Hands-on materials used in the LEGO® Brick-by-Brick Programme workshop.
Figure 2: Participants gained practical experience using methods and tools that match the communication patterns of children with special educational needs.
Figure 3: Group photo of students and the instructor taken at the LEGO® Brick-by-Brick Programme workshop.