Lego Games Help Young Children with Autism Develop Social Skills

Abstract

This article aims to introduce how Lego project can help young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) improve social interaction and language skills and reduce challenging behaviors. A case study of a preschooler named Adam with mild ASD characteristics such as language delays, behavioral problems and lack of social interaction was introduced, followed by a detailed narration of the intervention sessions using Lego games. A series of self-developed observation checklists were used to monitor Adam’s social emotional development, language development, challenging behaviors as well as fine motor skill development. After three Lego-intervention sessions Adam increases his social interactions with peers, has more eye contact, starts to share materials with his friends, expresses his interest in playing with peers, and improves his verbal communication ability. Besides Lego game, other constructive play materials also can be used to improve Adam and other young children’s with ASD language skills and social competence. The Lego-intervention therapy is also beneficial to typically developing peers in that it can help the development of imagination, creativity and team work.