Playing with Bricks

LEGO

LEGO Pooch: photo by Cliff Hutson

Some of you may already know that the correct plural of LEGO is just ‘LEGO’ (or, if the company has its way, ‘LEGO bricks’ or ‘LEGO sets’).  I just recently learned this lesson. As did Seth Myers not long ago.

Some of you might also ask why is this subject on my mind. The answer to that is that this weekend I finally got around to playing with a small set that I bought the last time that I was in a brick and mortar book store.  

LEGO Helicopter: photo by Cliff Hutson

Some may think it strange that an adult may want to fool around with toy bricks, but I am not the only one. There is even a term for it  -  an Adult Fan of Lego or AFOL. Certainly, most members of this community, such as Adam Savage, tackle far more elaborate projects. But, a fellow has to start somewhere. 

LEGO Classic: photo by Cliff Hutson

Cognitive Skills

A LEGO project can be a very effective and imaginative low-tech system for supporting spatial thinking. Spatial thinking allows one to understand the location and dimension of objects, and how different objects are related. It also allows you to visualize and manipulate objects and shapes in your head. Building LEGO sets may be very beneficial in both the development and retention of this skill, it is a great way to exercise one's brain.  Getting hands-on can also improve your cognitive skills and allow you to practice mindfulness. 

 So, I am excited to see if LEGO has a positive impact on my health and wellness.

House of Bricks: photo by Cliff Hutson