A St Thomas-based children’s charity has launched a unique workbook ahead of World Autism Acceptance Week to enhance the potential of children with autism through Lego.

According to a press release, ‘The Lego Therapy Workbook’ launched by Araba Scott Children’s Foundation aims to develop the social and emotional skills of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and is the ultimate guide for anyone wishing to start their own Lego Therapy Club.

Featuring seven structured session plans, phrases to help children express their feelings and lots of printable guides, the Lego Therapy Workbook is fun, stimulating and interactive, the release stated, adding that the workbook’s content and design reflect the unique, colourful and creative minds of all children, whatever their background, whether they have experienced trauma, have a special educational need or have suffered adverse childhood experiences.

Alicia Louise, founder and director of Araba Scott Children’s Foundation, sought to explain why the workbook is needed.

“After the pandemic, we noticed a lot of children return to their learning, social and play environments with difficulties socialising or expressing themselves,” Louise, a Londoner of Jamaican heritage, said.

“These challenges already present children (and adults) with feelings of loneliness, insecurity and anxiety but are compounded for those with ASD. We know, The Lego Therapy Workbook can help improve social communication and give children a positive sense of self,” she added.

The workbook also aims to give parents, caregivers, teachers and childcare establishments the confidence to set up their own groups to support children and their families. The idea for the club and the workbook came from the work the foundation does at a safe haven in the eastern Jamaica parish of St Thomas.

Over the past year the foundation reportedly observed the benefits of creating safe spaces for children to practice what is in the workbook – helping them manage frustrations, work together and have greater self-esteem.

“At our own safe haven, children aged between four and 17 have been enjoying their own Lego Club, building structures, dealing with conflict peacefully, making friendships and learning to read and count. While Lego Club is not therapy, it is therapeutic. It brings together children from all backgrounds and abilities to build tolerance for one other and improving wellbeing,” Louise said.

Araba Scott Children’s Foundation provides artistic, cultural and educational enrichment to children in St Thomas. Throughout the summer of 2022, children aged between four and 17 have been enjoying their own Lego Club, building structures, making friendships and learning to read and count through Lego play.