Exploring the use of Lego to support junior school mental health and wellbeing initiatives
Authors: Shipway, R., Henderson, H. and Inns, H.
Pages: 1-22
Publisher: Coastal Learning Partnership
Place of Publication: Poole, Dorset
Abstract:This report explores the use of LEGO® Serious Play (LSP) to support the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people (CYP) in an educational setting. In doing so, it investigates how best to manage anxiety and facilitate a better understanding of the transition process whereby pupils move either between year groups, or to new schools. The study adopts an innovative methodology whereby the focus is upon the model and not the child. Data was collected in aDorsetjunior school from four workshops, comprising sixty-four children,ranging from seven to eleven years of age. Using the LEGO® Serious Play (LSP)method,preliminary results highlight four key overarching themes associated with child anxiety surrounding the school transition process. These are (i) places, (ii) pathways, (iii) programming and (iv) people. A series of remedies and solutions are proposed, and recommendations for further development of the method within an educational context are highlighted. This study contributes to knowledge by using the LEGO® Serious Play (LSP) methodology to highlight the unique interaction between leisure, education and mental health and wellbeing.
Source: Manual