The first official Lego store in the Philippines recently opened in Bonifacio Global City and my kids and I were front and center for the event.

Prior to the opening, the organizers kept everybody occupied with Lego-themed sweets, life-size displays of its famous characters, and a remote-controlled R2D2.

After the ribbon-cutting by various dignitaries including Danish Ambassador Jan Christensen and Lego Group RTM senior manager Camilla Botke, everyone rushed into the store.

I have always believed that Lego is a great toy for child development. It helps develop your child’s dexterity and fine motor skills especially in building things using the smaller blocks and pieces. Let them start with the big Duplo blocks until they can manipulate Lego’s smaller bricks and pieces.

Follow instructions

Each Lego set comes with an instruction booklet that guides kids step-by-step on how to build their play set. While not evident at first, the booklet will teach your kids the importance of following directions, especially if they want to recreate what they see on the front of the box.

The Lego store has an activity called the Monthly Mini Build in which kids (6-14 years old) can come in and try their hand at building specific items and take them home afterwards.

Creative thinking

If your kids like to create things, then Lego gives them the opportunity to expand their imagination and creativity. While there are instructions on how to build a particular piece, a child can actually put the blocks together any way he or she wants as long as the pieces fit.

Play sets come with several spare pieces that allow kids to make modifications to their creations. Additional pieces can be purchased at the store for P679.75 per 100 grams.

At the very least, playing with Lego will likely occupy your kids’ attention for a couple of hours. You are thus guaranteed some peace and quiet as they focus their attention and little fingers on those colored bricks.