On January 28, Florida State University (FSU) will conduct a workshop to celebrate National LEGO Day, emphasizing the educational potential of LEGO bricks. The event, led by Dina Vyortkina, the assistant dean of innovation and instructional technology enhancement at the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, aims to showcase how these iconic toys can foster creativity and develop essential STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) skills in young learners. This day commemorates the patent of LEGO in 1958, underscoring its enduring relevance in educational settings.
The workshop, scheduled from 12:00 to 14:00, will take place in the Anne’s College Technology Sandbox. This innovative space allows students and faculty to engage with various instructional technologies, demonstrating how to integrate these tools into teaching and research effectively. Vyortkina believes that LEGO bricks serve as powerful instruments for teaching foundational academic concepts, encouraging exploration and inquiry.
Unlocking STEM Skills Through Play
According to Vyortkina, engaging with LEGO bricks helps children naturally navigate the engineering and design processes. They learn to plan, build, test, and revise their creations while discussing their ideas and offering solutions. This hands-on approach reinforces vital skills such as counting, sorting, and grouping—fundamental strategies for learning mathematics. Additionally, manipulating LEGO bricks enhances spatial reasoning and introduces concepts related to geometry and physics as children explore shapes, proportions, and balance.
“LEGO bricks are a powerful tool for teaching foundational academic concepts, fostering positive attitudes and building interest in STEM,” Vyortkina explained. The integration of robotics kits, such as LEGO Education and LEGO Spike, allows children to learn coding by following instructions and creating algorithms. Exciting developments are on the horizon, with LEGO planning to release the LEGO Smart Brick in March 2026, which will be capable of sensing motion, position, and distance.
Beyond STEM: Broader Developmental Benefits
LEGO play also supports various developmental skills crucial for young children. Skills including imagination, creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork emerge naturally during play. Vyortkina highlights that children also develop patience, goal-setting abilities, and organizational skills as they work with the bricks. The tactile nature of LEGO encourages focus and improves fine motor skills, making it particularly beneficial for children with developmental disorders.
In her role at FSU, Vyortkina also explores how technologies, including LEGO, can benefit children with special needs. Structured and predictable LEGO activities can engage these students effectively, offering visual cues and a self-paced rhythm. The tactile experience can be motivating for children who may struggle with verbal communication, fostering social skills as they interact with peers during play.
“For children with limited mobility, LEGO activities can still be enjoyable and therapeutic. The act of connecting and aligning bricks can serve as an exercise to strengthen muscle coordination,” Vyortkina stated.
As digital learning becomes more prevalent, the enduring appeal of LEGO lies in its ability to foster creativity without the need for screens. Vyortkina emphasizes that many LEGO kits are open-ended, allowing children to use their imaginations to build various objects rather than being confined to a single model.
For those interested in discussing the educational benefits of LEGO bricks further, Assistant Dean Dina Vyortkina is available for media inquiries at [email protected].
