International Mobilization of Lego Fans Helping Kids with Autism

Lego fans have formed an international advocacy organization to champion an innovative group-based social development program.

Called ASD Aid, the organization has grown into the global focus point for Adult Fans of Lego (AFOLs) who are dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in our communities and improving access to services. Many fans have witnessed firsthand the power of Lego play to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorders communicate and grow.

The Lego community is a diverse and supportive space; hopefully there are many GeekDad readers who will be interested and can help out in some way.

The group also has information and is looking at ideas around Lego and play therapy. They say:

Lego therapy has been proven to be a highly effective way for children with social difficulties associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger Syndrome) to improve their social interaction and communication skills. Due to the attraction of kids with ASD to the systematic nature of the Lego system, children are engaged and this fun experience is used to reinforce appropriate social behavior. Studies have shown that using Lego system in this way improves social interaction and communication with other kids and improves social contact in group settings in the playground and at home. The improvements in social skills enable children to develop and sustain lasting friendships, and a shared interest in Lego can help them form relationships that can help them navigate through difficult years.

For anyone in Australia, the Australian ASD Aid Chapter is running a Lego Fan Gala Cocktail Party as part of Melbourne's Annual Brickvention in late January. It is being held at the exhibition at the Melbourne Town Hall. Tickets should go fast, so you might want to get in and secure yours. You can keep an eye out on the ASD Aid website for info ration about future events, activities and fundraising.