Lego has introduced innovative “smart bricks” designed to enhance traditional toys with light, sound, and interactive capabilities. Despite the exciting features, an expert in early childhood education suggests that this advancement may restrict the imaginative play crucial for children’s development.
At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the Danish toy company unveiled its Smart Play system, which includes bricks and minifigures integrated with electronic components like miniature speakers and sensors. These elements enable the toys to react to movement and sound. For instance, a new Star Wars set produces lightsaber hums and engine noises, while a Lego helicopter generates whooshing sounds when manipulated.
The toymaker emphasizes that the new products aim to inspire children by providing an interactive play experience filled with exploration and imaginative storytelling. However, Mariana Brussoni, a professor at the University of British Columbia, notes that the original loose Lego bricks encouraged imaginative play as they allowed children the freedom to construct anything they desired.
Brussoni expresses concerns that the modern Lego kits, with predetermined designs, may limit imaginative potential and reduce their effectiveness as developmental tools. She suggests that the latest products could impose similar constraints on children’s creativity. The expert emphasizes that if a child associates a specific sound with a Lego brick, it may hinder them from using it in diverse ways beyond its predefined representation.
Dr. Jillian Roberts, an educational psychology professor at the University of Victoria, views anything that diverts children from screens and encourages real-life interaction positively. She believes that Lego’s initiative to engage kids in building and social play is beneficial. However, Roberts cautions that these toys may not be suitable for children with sensory sensitivities, like those with autism spectrum disorder or photosensitive epilepsy.
The new Lego toys are scheduled for release on March 1, with pre-orders commencing soon. While they offer exciting features, the pricing is on the higher end, with sets like Darth Vader themed at $69.99 US (approximately $97) and a set featuring Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia priced at $89.99 US (just over $124).