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For parents - FIRST® LEGO® League Explore

FIRST® LEGO® League Explore has an amazing impact on the young people who get involved.

FIRST® LEGO® League Explore is an exciting STEM programme for 6 to 9-year-olds.

Each year a theme relevant to the world around them is chosen as a focus for the children’s work. The teams research the topic, display their ideas on a team poster, build a LEGO® model and program one part to move using LEGO® Education WeDo 2.0 or SPIKE Essential. FIRST® LEGO® League Explore rapidly develops teamwork, design, programming and communication skills, but the most important thing is that it is great fun and makes the children feel proud of what they have achieved!

We believe engaging parents in their children’s interests and education is crucial to continue developing and nurturing their abilities. There are several ways you can get involved as a parent in FIRST® LEGO® League Explore.

How do I get my child involved?

  • If in school, talk with your child’s teachers about getting involved in the programme.
  • Is your child part of a youth organisation (e.g. Guides, Scouts)? We have lots of these groups that take part in the tournaments. Talk with the group leader about getting involved.
  • OR…become a coach yourself!! Maybe your child is a LEGO® maniac, has shown a real interest in STEM or coding, or just wants to be involved in an awesome and exciting challenge with some of their friends! If so – have a look at what you need to do to become a coach here.

Is your child already in a FIRST® LEGO® League Explore team through school? Brilliant! Here are the ways in which you can help

#1 Talk to them!

Ask your child what they are learning about, what their model shows, or what their role is in the team. One of the most important parts of FIRST® LEGO® League Explore is communication, and we want the children to take these skills beyond school, or their team sessions, and take it into everyday life. We’re sure you’ll be delighted with what they tell you!

#2 Help them prepare

Go along to the last session and offer to act as a reviewer (a less intimidating version of a judge!). This gives the team a chance to experience explaining their project to someone who isn’t their coach. Ask open-ended questions, use encouraging and positive language, and make sure to ask questions to every member of the team.

#3 Go to the Festivals

It is wonderful when parents can help celebrate what the teams have achieved by supporting their children at the regional Festivals. These are wonderful events, in which the teams share their work with other teams and reviewers. The objective is to make them feel incredibly proud of what they have achieved and create a supportive and fun environment for them.

#4 Taxi service, head chef or fashion designer

Whilst not always the most glamorous jobs, shuttling team members, making a packed lunch, or sewing a badge onto a t-shirt are all tasks that enable teams to take part in their Festivals.