We all know Legos. The toys that keep our keiki happy for hours—and hurt like heck when stepped on barefoot. What we may not know is that these toys can be tapped to foster creativity, teamwork, and community spirit among youth.
A novel educational program on Hawai’i Island launched by America Institute of Architects, Honolulu Chapter (AIA Honolulu), the Architecture Lego Studio, is doing just that. The studio provides youth with “a hands-on experience that offers valuable lessons about architecture, construction, and the power of collaborative efforts.” The program was featured in a recent article by Stephanie Salmons in Pacific Business News.
Held in partnership with the Kailua-Kona Public Library the program offers students from grades 3-12 a practical introduction to potential career paths in architecture, design, and construction.
AIA Honolulu Board member and Kona resident Maziyar Rajaei, principal at Oculus LLC, is the driving force behind the project. Rajaei is a member of the Kona Bahá’í Community.
“Through the Architecture Lego Studio program, we aim to inspire Hawaii keiki: the architects, engineers and community builders of tomorrow,” Rajaei said in a statement quoted in the Pacific Business News article. “By providing a platform for children to engage with Lego bricks, we not only encourage creativity but also foster important skills such as problem-solving, communication and collaboration.”
“The program is designed to be both fun and educational,” adds Rajaei, “with a focus on exploring various aspects of community building and architecture. Students embark on exciting challenges that encourage them to design and construct their own miniature communities. Along the way, they learn about the principles of urban planning, environmental sustainability, and the importance of teamwork.”
Feedback about the program from participants, parents, colleagues, and the community has been positive, according to Rajaei. The program is supported by AIA members and local businesses, as well as grant funding from Haawine Ike and Hawaii Community Foundation.