A Lego-based learning centre has opened its doors in Moranbah to support children with a disability and their families with a recreational respite program that is not only fun but delivers great developmental benefits.
Australia’s first ‘Brickability’ program, launched on Saturday (9 May), is a social hub for children to play and explore using Lego blocks, the arts and a range of hands-on creative activities.
Arrow Energy has partnered with Endeavour Foundation to deliver the program through Arrow’s Brighter Futures community investment fund. Endeavour Foundation CEO David Barbagallo said the pilot program was based on emerging research about the benefits of ‘block play’.
“Endeavour Foundation appreciates the support of Arrow Energy to set up this Australian pilot site which draws on emerging research around the applicability of natural play environments as a tool for working with children and young people – particularly those with a disability,” Mr Barbagallo said.
“Practitioners have learned that using Lego in play groups can lead to improved verbal and non-verbal communication, sharing, turn-taking, collaboration and other social and play skills.
“As young people with a disability grow and develop, these skills will prove to be of vital importance to their independence at every stage of their lives.”
Arrow Energy Vice President, External Relations and Tenure Management Leisa Elder said the Brickability program would ensure young people with a disability in Moranbah had access to the kind of service that would normally only be available in a large city.
“Arrow and the Endeavour Foundation have been partners in a school holiday respite care service in Dalby for some years now, and we have seen the difference this has made to families from the surrounding region,” Mrs Elder said.
“For this reason, we decided to work with the Endeavour Foundation in Moranbah, which is Arrow’s other regional base.
“Regional families often have to make do without the same levels of support as their city counterparts, so services like respite care are a major benefit.
“The program will provide a fun and welcoming environment for children, both with and without a disability.”
Brickability will be held at Moranbah State High School’s special education unit. Sessions will run every Saturday and Sunday and during school holidays:
- 9am – 12.30pm, ages 3-11
- 1pm – 4.30pm, ages 12-16
The cost is a nominal $10 fee per session and parents can get information or book through Endeavour Foundation’s central intake system by calling 1800 363 328 or emailing [email protected].
Arrow’s Brighter Futures community investment fund supports local, not-for-profit community groups and organisations undertaking projects and initiatives that make a sustainable contribution to Arrow’s areas of operation throughout Queensland.
Brighter Futures has contributed more than $12 million to community projects across Queensland since 2011.
Media contact:
Endeavour Foundation: Verena Coombe
Phone: 04 4729 6021 / 0427 715 041
Email: [email protected]