To help extend playtime during your stay, we have compiled a list of fun activities

you can do with your Lego bricks that are included in your set.

 

BEFORE YOU BUILD:

SORTING:

Most sets have numbered bags. After open each, sort the Lego into piles. This can be done by size, color, type. Let your child decide. This will give them more sense of control, extend playtime, and get their brain active in a different way.

EYE SPY:

Lay all the loose Lego pieces out and play eye spy. Give you child a hint. “I spy with my little eye something that color red.” This will supply a break from instructional build time and provide them with a sense of accomplishment

 

DURING THE BUILD:

NAME GAME:

Name your minifigure. The little person that comes in most Lego sets is called a Minifigure. Have your child name this or any of the animals that may come in the set. Develop a backstory and have your child tell the doctors or nurses about the minifigure or animals journey. This will help keep your children active in play even after it is finished. These conversations can offer a distraction from medical things that need to be done.

I CAN’T FIND IT:

We have found that dividing your role and your child’s when building is critical to giving them control. There are two main job roles. The Piece Finder and the Builder.

   For Children who may not have the strength to build but still need that mental break of seeing something created, let them be the Piece finder. They can point out pieces to you as you are building.

   For children who want to build, Let them be the builder. You can also engage them in the piece finding role by saying… “I Cant Find this piece? Can you help me.”

  Both of these approaches make the child feel like they are needed.

 

AFTER THE BUILD:

THE PLAYZONE:

Your child’s room may not have a lot of accessible open area. Use what you have. Hospital blankets can make great mountains and valleys, planetary surfaces, or even ocean waves. Let you child’s imagination decide what it is and go with it. If they say it is purple water, and they are driving a car across it, go with the flow. This will allow your child to escape into the world that you have helped to create. That world is where smiles are found.

MAGICAL MINIFIGURE:

After play has completed, you can play Eye Spy in the room. By Moving your Minifigure within eyesight of your child you can turn their room into the play area. Don’t forget to use the minifigure’s name when you are searching for them. And if a medical professional comes in during the game, have them join in! Here is Nurse Susan! Nurse Susan, our minifigure, Faith, is hiding in the room. Can you help us find her?’