Sometimes you find profound things in the simplicity of a favorite childhood toy. I was on Facebook recently and came across a picture my friend Pablo and his son Dylan (pictured above). He is playing with his son, piecing together colorful bits of plastic, but really piecing together some pretty big life lessons. When I asked him about his love of LEGO® systems, he sang the praises of these colorful little blocks.

Pablo said “We love Legos for many reasons. First, it helps with structure and procedure: following a plan, building something according to the instructions and feeling accomplished when you get the final result. The second reason is imagination and creativity. We can build whatever we want using the same pieces from one or many sets. We also love to spend time as father and son. Finding opportunities to play together in an era of individual screens is priceless. It makes my son feel like a grown-up, and it makes me feel like a kid.”

The design appeal also captures their imaginations. Pablo also added “I love the colors, the texture and the clicking sound of two pieces being assembled correctly.” There are so many benefits to this deceptively simple activity.

#LEGO® Builds Play Therapy Possibilities

My friend isn’t alone in his love of Legos. Many researchers are now integrating LEGO® into their therapeutic approaches. They foster a spirit of collaboration, they make us dream, and they’re soothing. Many people agree. From executives and entertainers such as Ed Sheeran, they credit the blocks with improving their focus and calm with the help of .

Sensory play is important for everyone, especially for those with sensory challenges such as the population of Autism. The little blocks of LEGO offer a comforting, safe and exploratory avenue for expression.

One in 68 children struggles with sensory issues. LEGO® helps children learn and incorporate rules and guidelines during play. According to ASDAid.org, The LEGO®system of bricks and other elements is a highly structured, predictable and systematic construction toy. It is likely that children with ASD will be motivated by tasks involving this toy.

#LEGO Helps Develop Socialization Skills

LEGO® also helps to break down the isolating aspects of Autism Sensory Disorders and SPD by introducing children to playing with peers, building collaboratively, navigating social situations

and encouraging discussion and team decision-making.

#LEGO® As a Compassion Creator

LEGO® also represents compassion and encourages it through play. Legos are a vegan-friendly choice for humane homes. They promote peaceful play, creation and teamwork, whether you’re building a Star Wars glider to swoop in and rescue the good guys or a farm scene that encourages enjoyment of animals and their welfare. Legos promote the idea that, using our imagination and our work, we can build something meaningful. So much good can come from such a tiny thing. Incorporate humane play into your life.

Deborah Rosenberg, founder of DiMare Design focuses on Cruelty Free (Vegan) Design and Design Therapy. She combines specific textures, scents and colors with cruelty free materials to create optimal thriving spaces. Deborah grew up in New York. She resides in Miami with her daughters and dog Lucca. Lucca’s favorite pastime is being a total beach bum.