Fair Haven elementary school students recently enjoyed a unique learning experience, courtesy of Bricks 4 Kidz.

Kindergarten through third grade students at Viola L. Sickles School participated from Sept. 26 to 30 in the enrichment program designed to teach children STEM concepts through hands-on learning using LEGO® bricks.

Director Melina Stock visited Sickles for an instructional in-school field trip. This consisted of active building sessions for individual classes with the goal of creating finished models. Working with a Bricks 4 Kidz original design and LEGO technic bricks, the students built their mechanical masterpieces: colorful sailboats for first through third graders (with varying levels of challenge based on grade level); and shiny red apples with bright green stems for kindergarten students.

This was the first of eight Bricks 4 Kidz in-school field trips planned for Sickles students this year, sponsored by the Fair Haven PTA and the school district. Bricks 4 Kidz has been offered to Sickles School third graders as a weekly winter lunch time LEGO program for three consecutive years.

“We take children’s interest in building with LEGO bricks and bring it to the next level by providing education concepts to first through third graders using Bricks 4 Kidz technic project kits,” Stock said. “For example, this month I reviewed non-friction and friction tech pins and how and why they move the way they do.

“Next month I will build on the students’ understanding and introduce another interesting mechanical concept.

“We love providing educational enrichment to the students at Sickles School — their high levels of interest, excitement, and attention always add up to a dynamic learning experience.”

Bricks 4 Kidz provides educational and developmental benefits in:

•   Creativity and Problem-Solving
•   Spatial Intelligence and Fine Motor Skills
•   Organization
•   Following Directions
•   Sequencing
•   Goal-Directed Persistence
•   Fine-Motor Skills
•   Cooperation and Teamwork“This is great for helping students learn how to work together as well as follow step-by-step instructions,” Sickles School Media Specialist June Sustick said as she and Stock supervised and encouraged a third grade class of master builders.

  Working in teams of two, the students created picture-perfect sailboat models complete with a rolling on the waves motion thanks to the inclusion of a small motor and battery pack.

   

— Edited press release from Fair Haven School District