The LEGO Group, a privately held company based in Billund, Denmark has become well known for its line of construction toys. The group’s flagship product is the interlocking toy brick that it introduced in 1949.
LEGO bricks are manufactured from ABS plastic and come with various pieces to construct just about anything you can imagine. They also sell sets themed around popular movies like Star Wars or Harry Potter which allow children to recreate their favorite scenes while developing problem-solving skills.
But the best thing about LEGO? It’s fun! And there are lots of ways to enjoy this amazing hobby whether you’re building with someone else or doing it yourself. You can even find some DIY tutorials on YouTube if you need some help.
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Benefits of LEGO Building
So why should you get yourself started on LEGO building? Here are ten benefits of this awesome hobby…
It’s Creative
LEGO is all about creating things. There are no limits to what you can build when using these blocks. You don’t need any tools or special skills, just your imagination! And with the right pieces and some patience, anything is possible.
Building with LEGO has been shown in various studies to improve problem-solving skills in children because they must think ahead when constructing different designs.
Develops Fine Motor Skills
Since LEGO bricks come in different shapes and sizes, you need to use both your hands when handling them. Whether it’s time for connecting two studs together, removing parts from a LEGO brick, or pressing them flat onto a LEGO baseplate, your child’s fine motor skills will improve over time.
They’re Safe
LEGO bricks are made from ABS plastic which makes them resistant to fire and heat. If you’re constructing something that gets too hot by accident, it will not melt or warp like other materials can do. Plus they’re non-toxic so there’s no danger of ingesting any nasty chemicals while using these toys.
Be Sociable
When you build with these bricks yourself (or with someone else), you’ll want to show off what you’ve managed to create!
LEGO has created many websites and social media accounts where fans can share photos of their latest builds. This is a great way to meet new people who share your interest in this hobby.
It Teaches Patience and Discipline
As any LEGO builder knows, it’s not always easy to create the exact thing you have in mind. Sometimes you’ll have to take things apart and start again or search for that one elusive piece that’s just been eluding you. This can be frustrating but it also teaches patience which is a valuable life skill.
It’s Educational
LEGO building can also be educational! There are many different sets themed around different subjects like science, math, history, and more. These sets provide a fun and interactive way for children to learn while they play.
You can even find LEGO-based lesson plans online that can be used in the classroom or at home.
It’s a Good Stress Reliever
Building with LEGO can be really therapeutic. If you’re feeling frustrated or stressed, bending some plastic bricks into an hourglass or a spaceship can help to calm your mind.
They’re Portable
Since LEGO bricks are made from plastic, they’re lightweight and easily portable. This makes them perfect for taking on trips or storing away when not in use.
You can Build Alone or with Others
As mentioned before, LEGO is a great way to meet new people who share your interest in this hobby. But it’s also great for building things by yourself. With the right pieces, you can create anything your heart desires!
It Lasts a Lifetime
Unlike some toys which are only meant for a certain age group, LEGO bricks can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Plus, as long as you take care of them, they’ll last a lifetime!
Your Kickstart Guide to LEGO Building
Hey there, LEGO enthusiasts! If you’re new to the LEGO world and not sure how to dive in, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll be going on a journey together, exploring the colorful, creative, and captivating world of LEGO building. Buckle up!
Starting Small: Your First LEGO Set
Before you start building skyscrapers and space stations, it’s a good idea to start with something small. Pick a beginner set that matches your interest, be it a cute LEGO Friends set, a LEGO City building, or even a small Star Wars ship for the fans out there. The important thing here is to choose a set that you’ll enjoy building. This is your time to play, learn, and create!
As you open your first LEGO box, take a moment to savor it – the crisp crinkle of the plastic, the rustle of the pages as you unfurl the instructions. Ahh, pure bliss! Each LEGO set comes with detailed, easy-to-follow instructions that guide you through the build, step by step. Don’t worry about getting lost. You’re in good hands!
Understanding LEGO Building Techniques
As you begin to build, you’ll start to recognize certain LEGO building techniques. There are the basic ones, like stacking bricks and using flat tiles to create a smooth finish, and then there are the more advanced techniques. Look out for ‘SNOT’ (Studs Not On Top), ‘offsetting’ (using pieces to move sections of your build slightly off the grid), and ‘microscale’ (building tiny, detailed models).
Don’t fret if you can’t grasp these techniques immediately. Learning comes with practice. Before you know it, you’ll be employing these methods in your creations, and that’s when the real magic begins!
Be Organized, Be Efficient
Ever tried to find a specific LEGO piece in a sea of bricks? Trust me, it’s not fun! Being organized can significantly enhance your LEGO building experience. Use small containers or ziplock bags to sort your pieces by color, size, or type. The key here is to create a system that works for you.
Another pro tip: layout the bricks for each step before you start building. It’s like gathering your ingredients before you start cooking. This saves you time and keeps the process smooth and enjoyable.
LEGO is More Than Just Following Instructions
The beauty of LEGO is that it’s not just about following instructions; it’s about exploring your creativity. Once you’re comfortable with the basic building techniques, try freestyling. Use your bricks to bring your ideas to life. Create your own skyscraper, design a funky vehicle, or build a fantasy creature. There are no limits to what you can create!
Remember, it’s all about having fun and learning. So don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Sometimes, the coolest creations come from happy accidents!
Join the LEGO Community
Building with LEGO bricks is fun, but sharing your creations with others brings a whole new level of enjoyment. Join the LEGO community, both online and offline. Participate in LEGO forums, share your builds on social media, and take part in LEGO events and competitions. You’ll find plenty of inspiration, make new friends, and discover countless ways to enhance your LEGO building journey.