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I'm not surprised that Legos earned so many nominations as "toy of the 20th century." In an era where most toys seem to have only one way to be used, essentially zapping the creativity of our children it is great to see an old standby win. Not only are Legos cool, they are also great learning tools. Working with manipulatives such as Legos fosters use small-motor skill, competence, creativity, and self-esteem. Through these toys, children also gain experience in problem solving, special skills, inductive thinking, discovery, concepts such as depth, width, height, length, measurement, volume, area, classification, shape, symmetry, mapping, equality, and inequality. These skills are crucial to higher achievement in math and science. The new high-tech Lego Mindstorms even teach basic computer programming and engineering concepts. As a child with physical disabilities, however, Legos presented a challenge for me. Sometimes, I could snap the Legos together, but just in random order. My creations never looked like the picture on the box or in my head. I remember being extremely jealous when my friends Heidi and Jody built this great replica of Arnold's restaurant on "Happy Days," complete with the booth were Fonzie bestowed his wisdom to Richie, Ralph, and Potsie. I wanted to make something cool like that! Don't discount Legos just because a child has fine motor difficulties. Try positioning the child on his or her stomach over a foam wedge or bolster or in sidelyer to see if that improves motor control. Furthermore, having a child with disabilities choose a piece and direct a peer where to place each piece can be fun. It was for me. However, we all learn best by doing things ourselves. Kids with disabilities today have an option I did not have -- They can play with Legos and similar building toys on their computer screens! If a child has difficulty manipulating real Legos or similar toys, try these software alternatives.
For Windows 98:
Lego's own line of software for a broad range of ages. Hypervisual Blockworks (This is geared for older students.) Montessori Manipulatives by DisPlay School For Macintosh: * These programs have access features for students using assistive technology such as switches and alternate keyboards. Parents and teachers may want to read these lesson ideas to enhance childrens' learning, with real or virtual bricks. I may just build that model of Arnold's after all! Go To Page: 1
The copyright of the article If they build it, they will learn. in Assistive Technology is owned by . Permission to republish If they build it, they will learn. in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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