Written by Heather Jobson, Children’s Librarian, Loveland Branch
"Everything is awesome…"
If you are the parent of a LEGO fan, you may recognize this as the LEGO Movie theme song refrain. But life is not-so-awesome when you are a kid stuck inside because of winter weather and pandemic-required physical distancing. During the early months of 2021, young Lego fans resisted social isolation through the Library’s LEGO Lounge and the LEGO Winter Build virtual programs.
View a gallery of LEGO creations by our participants:
Alex on Beauty LakeAlex on Beauty Lake by Max. M
Alex’s mining company2Work Table by Max. M
Alex’s mining company1Sweet Valley 2 by Max M.
Max Sweet ValleySweet Valley by Max. M
Griffin M Elevated view of the clearing and tree with better view of the springElevated View of Clearing and Tree with Better View of the Spring by Griffin M.
Griffin M Tree and clearing from aboveBetter View of Clearing from Above by Griffin M.
Griffin M Front view of the clearing and treeFront View of Clearing and Tree by Griffin M.
Derek K Attack!Attack! by Derek K.
Derek K Farms being attacked by the EnderdragonFarms Being Attacked by the Enderdragon by Derek K.
Derek K Helping people with a bridgeHelping People with a Bridge by Derek K.
Derek K In an abandoned mineshaft!In an Abandoned Mineshaft by Derek K.
Derek K Minecraft WorldMinecraft World by Derek K.
Derek K Work siteWork Site by Derek K.
Minecraft Mania by Thomas S. 3Minecraft Mania by Thomas S.
Minecraft Mania by Thomas S. 2My Build with the Roof On by Thomas S.
Minecraft Mania by Thomas S. 1My Build with the Roof Off by Thomas S.
Building 21st Century Skills
Social connectivity was the main goal of these events, and kids practiced many social skills. Participating required use of the Zoom platform, and builders modeled for each other excellent virtual social graces. They practiced taking turns and offering compliments as well as constructive criticism. The children exhibited an awareness of their audience (which is different virtually, where you have to make sure your audience can adequately hear you and see what you are displaying). They helped each other (and me!) troubleshoot technical problems with the platform.
Sharing = Connection = Awesomeness
Please enjoy their creations above and if you have some constructive observations or appreciations, share them in the comments section. In past years, the Loveland Branch Library has held LEGO exhibitions in the branch and children could see firsthand the reactions of viewers to their builds. By taking the time to share your reaction to a build below, you show children that their work is important and can affect others. You also help them feel connected to the community in a way that makes them (and you) feel awesome!
Attend A Library Program Outdoors
Although the LEGO program has concluded, there are many great Library programs for children to attend this spring and summer, including some great virtual programs. And, as the weather warms up, the Library is adding more socially distanced outdoor programs for all ages. Visit our online calendar and sign up today.
Add a comment to: LEGO Gallery: CHPL’s Program Boosted Skills and Social Connectivity