Bricks 4 Kidz, a learning group originally based on LEGOs and founded by Michelle Cote, is now including Minecraft into the program, started by Robin Kocen in Virginia. Kocen believes Minecraft is a special game that allows players to create a world from an empty canvas.
“It’s all about being creative. And building blocks and cities all in this virtual world,” she says.
How Bricks 4 Kidz Works
With the use of LEGOs, Bricks 4 Kidz introduces engineering and architectural principles to kids. By building and using their creativity, the kids at this camp can explore scientific and mathematical concepts. This is a great way to engage children who are visual, kinesthetic, or auditory learners.
Why Minecraft?
When I went over my boyfriend’s cousins house this weekend, we noticed that his young cousin was playing Minecraft on a small window on the computer. When we asked why he wasn’t playing in a full screen mode he said, “Because it’s easier to minimize the window when my father walks in.”
His response took me by surprise. His father doesn’t allow him to play Minecraft?! Why?! He never told us why—probably because he was so engaged with the game—but even so, I’m still scratching my head wondering why this is.
Bricks 4 Kidz is using Minecraft as a way to inspire creative and critical thinking. Kocen says that in their Minecraft camp, they are teaching the kids how to work as part of a team and teaching them about team building. After they build their world on Minecraft, the kids build their virtual world using LEGOs. By creating them in the real world, parents of these campers, believe they are learning engineering and social skills.
If Minecraft teaches and enhances critical thinking, creativity, engineering, and social skills, why is my boyfriend’s cousin not allowed to play Minecraft?
Would you keep your child away?
Whether you have kids or not, would you keep a child away from Minecraft? Why or why not? Also, why do you think my boyfriend’s cousin is not allowed to play Minecraft? Share your thoughts with us below!
