What is LEGO© Based Therapy?

LEGO© therapy is a social developmental programme for children with autism that addresses issues with social interaction and communication deficiencies.

LEGO© therapy was developed based on the concept of using child’s interests to motivate them to learn and the activities have been shaped towards interaction and communication by introducing the roles of an engineer, a supplier and a builder. The intervention is based on creating LEGO© sets following clear instructions or freestyle building. (LeGoff, 2014).

According to research LEGO© Therapy should last at least

8 weeks to see any changes in children's interaction.

Why LEGO© Therapy?

Children with ASD like playing with LEGO© blocks as they are suited for autistic children's nature due to their predictability. That reduces anxiety and as a result, children can concentrate on developing skills like social interaction, teamwork.
Improves joint attention - non-verbal communication including shared attention, eye-gaze are in the centre of LEGO© therapy and there is no demand placed on verbal communication. This can be achieved by children checking the plan and the creation, switching the roles and turn taking.
Child-led approach e.g.: child’s choice of what set to build, which can improve motivation. Natural reinforcement has a positive impact on a child's responses and acquisition of new skills. Children respond much better when given choice of what resources they would like to use e.g.: they are more enthusiastic when working on a project they are passionate about.
Inclusion- being part of the group, social inclusion, and sense of belonging play vital roles in the ability to form relationships. As a result,

autistic children feel good about themselves, feel included and valued, which could have an impact on their communication and reduce outbursts.

Who is it for?

LEGO©Therapy is for children diagnosed with autism or awaiting diagnosis
children struggling with social interaction and communication
this particular group is for children age 7-11, a session for younger children is likley to happen soon
children who love LEGO©
children who can tolerate others
children who are able to cope being without parents for the length of the session

LEGO© Based Therapy

START: 8th September 2020

DAY: TUESDAY

TIME: 4:45- 6pm

VENUE: The Arc, 39 Weston Dr, Caterham CR3 5XY

COST: £65 per term paid in advance

Only 8 places available!

Even though it is run in relaxed atmosphere this is NOT a Club but a therapy that is aiming to improve specific skills through individualised approach.

LEGO© Club will be run during holidays for whole families.

What is included:

initial assessment and end report
very small group and autism friendly environment
Certificates for achieveing specific levels to boost confidence
1:1 support for the family

Structure of the session:

Drop off and welcome - parents/carers are encouraged to enjoy a cup of coffee in The Arc Cafe as children respond differently when parents/carers are not around. It is also a good opportunity for parents to have a break. However, that will be discussed individually with each family.
Following government guidance on Covid 19- hand sanitizer, Covid -19 declaration
Rules - children set the rules themselves and are reminded of them every session.
Building a chosen set in small groups ( usually 2 or 3)
Rewards and certificates for reaching certain level
Play time- children build what they wish to build
Display/Photos - all work is photographed and will be on display
Short discussion- what they build, how they feel
Dismantling- all sets must be dismantled before going home
Clear up - children are involved in packing up
Pick up time and feedback to parents/carers

During half term holidays the Tuesday session will be open to the wider public and autistic children will be able to attend with their families to help bond with siblings and share interests.

Limited places.

You can sign up for this session here.

If you are not sure if LEGO © Based therapy is for your child or you worry your child might not manage, please contact me so we can discuss it and find the best solution, it can be delivered on 1:1 basis as well.