Building skills 

brick by brick 

Cathy Serratore 

Student Wellbeing – Middle School 

Brunswick Secondary College Wellbeing Team has begun a trial of a wellbeing program where selected students can participate in LEGO-based activities.  

Targeting students who would like to further develop their social, interactive, teamwork and behaviour regulation skills, Lego based therapy is an evidenced based, positive, structured, child-centred social development communication program offering holistic, enjoyable experiences and can deliver marked benefit. In turn, a program like this helps students to develop the skills they need to improve their school participation and educational outcomes. 

In our school program, our students will benefit from 

• Social Skills Development: It promotes collaboration, turn-taking, and communication among participants, crucial for enhancing social interactions.  So much of our young peoples’ learning takes place as they work together in the classroom, sharing their knowledge talents, skills and experience, so practicing these communication and teamwork skills are vital to their education and fundamental to life. 
• Problem-Solving Skills: Engaging in building challenges fosters creativity and critical thinking, helping individuals develop effective problem-solving strategies. These strategies can then transfer to other facets of life, and support their perseverance and resilience throughout their learning journey. 
• Emotional Regulation: It provides a structured environment where participants learn to manage frustration, anxiety, and other emotions through focused play. Improving their ability to regulate behaviour means an increased ability to participate effectively in the classroom, as well to manage social interactions. 
• Building Confidence: Successfully completing tasks and contributing to group projects boosts self-esteem and confidence in one's abilities.  Students will have the opportunity to exhibit and celebrate their talents, and to share their abilities with others – reinforcing their self worth, value and rightful place in this community, this school and this life. 
• Fun and Engagement: The hands-on, playful nature of LEGO activities encourages enjoyment and active participation, making sessions more enjoyable and effective. 

Lego at home 

Additionally, transferring Lego challenges into the home environment can help parents, carers and their young people to develop strong interpersonal skills and close bonds, and contribute to a happier home life  – especially through the teenage years. It is a highly recommended activity as it provides for quality, quiet interaction mixed with creativity and fun, and a shared goal for the family to work toward.  

Best of all, it results in a tangible outcome of which everyone can be proud!