Unlocking the Power of Dreams: LEGO's New Mission for Kids

September 4, 2024, 4:38 pm
LEGO
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In a world where imagination reigns supreme, LEGO is taking a bold step into the realm of dreams. The LEGO Group recently unveiled its latest initiative, aimed at teaching children how to "dream craft." This concept, inspired by the popular LEGO® DREAMZzz™ series, encourages kids to harness their creativity while they sleep. With the second season of the show rolling out, LEGO is not just selling toys; it’s promoting a transformative experience for young minds.

A recent global study conducted by LEGO reveals a startling statistic: only one in three children actively practice "dream crafting." This means many kids are missing out on the opportunity to shape their dreams, much like the characters in the series. The study surveyed children aged 6 to 12 across ten countries, uncovering that while 57% of kids are aware of their dream manipulation abilities, only a fraction are putting them to use.

So, what exactly is "dream crafting"? It’s a playful term that embodies the idea of guiding and altering dreams through imagination. In the LEGO DREAMZzz series, characters like Mateo and Izzie embark on fantastical adventures, using their creativity to combat nightmares and protect the dream world. This concept resonates with children, inviting them to explore their own dreamscapes.

The LEGO Group is determined to change the narrative. They aim to educate parents and guardians on how to foster these skills in their children. Dream psychologist Ian Wallace, who has analyzed over 400,000 dreams, emphasizes the importance of creativity and confidence in this process. He outlines three methods to help children unlock their dream crafting potential: Dream Play, Imaginal Play, and Active Play.

**Dream Play** involves reflecting on dream imagery as children wake. This practice allows them to reimagine their dreams, realizing they have control over the scenarios unfolding in their minds. It’s like painting a canvas with their thoughts, where every stroke is a choice.

**Imaginal Play** takes this a step further. Once awake, children can explore remembered dream images, diving into the details of their dream worlds. Parents can encourage this exploration, asking questions that prompt deeper thinking about the dream’s environment and characters. It’s akin to being a director of a movie, where the child gets to cast the actors and choose the plot twists.

Finally, **Active Play** invites children to reenact their dreams. This hands-on approach fosters emotional connections and enhances imaginative skills. By role-playing, kids can transform their dreams into tangible experiences, building confidence and creativity. It’s like turning a dream into a play, where they are both the writer and the star.

The benefits of "dream crafting" extend beyond the night. Wallace’s research indicates that engaging with dreams can enhance problem-solving skills, emotional resilience, and cognitive development. It’s a powerful tool for self-discovery, allowing children to navigate their inner worlds while they sleep.

As part of this initiative, LEGO has launched new products inspired by the DREAMZzz series. These sets, such as Zoey's Cat Motorcycle and Cooper's Robot Dinosaur C-Rex, encourage children to build and rebuild their dream scenarios. Each set comes with multiple building options, allowing kids to change their creations as they change their stories. It’s a tangible way to practice dream crafting in real life.

The LEGO Group is also hosting events to promote this initiative. On September 8, a special event in Sydney will transform the largest LEGO store into a dream world. Children will have the chance to meet their favorite characters and participate in activities designed to enhance their dream crafting skills. It’s a celebration of creativity, where bedtime becomes an adventure.

So, what are kids dreaming about? The LEGO study found that the most common dream themes include friends, family, school, and even monsters. These elements reflect the everyday lives of children, blending reality with the fantastical. By encouraging kids to engage with these themes, LEGO hopes to inspire them to take control of their dreams.

In a world filled with distractions, LEGO’s mission is a breath of fresh air. It invites children to explore their imaginations, not just through play but also in their sleep. By teaching kids to "dream craft," LEGO is not just building toys; it’s building a generation of creative thinkers.

As the final episodes of LEGO DREAMZzz Season Two roll out, the message is clear: dreaming is not just an escape; it’s a playground for creativity. With the right tools and encouragement, children can learn to navigate their dreams, transforming fear into adventure.

In the end, LEGO is not just about bricks; it’s about building dreams. And in a world where imagination knows no bounds, that’s a lesson worth sharing.