Guest Blog Post: Kostkovani Hands-On Events

At classic MOC exhibitions, we noticed that children want to play mainly so we tried a new concept for our 2018 events. The shows have now been focused mainly on playing with LEGO and children and less focus on displaying MOCs.

30% exhibition of the MOC of our RLUG (MOC, joint project)

70% competition for children, interactive LEGO models, play zones (LEGO blue bricks, LEGO lose bricks, LEGO Minecraft, DUPLO)

After the first two events and 4090 visitors, I can say that this new event type has been clearly positive with our LEGO User Group members and the cities where these events were hosted.

We prepared different tasks for children. We offered children different focused building areas where they are as interactive as possible. We made the LEGO simple board games (pexeso, domino, lady).

We also try to think about the littlest children. Many activities focus on them. For example, get to know a pet with DUPLO animals.

Not all adult visitors are LEGO builders, so we have been using simple constructions to show some physical principles and basic building techniques.

The truth is that the adult visitors were a little surprised because they expected a classic show exhibiting some playground, so they will be able to leave with children for an hour. Once inside children did not want to leave the show because they were having so much fun.

Our members have really enjoyed the new set up as it allows their creations to be on display but also get the hands-on experience with kids and adults for shared inspiration and excitement! Some of members who do no build as much also enjoyed this style of event more as they were able to assist in the different kid focused activities. These events are also good for recruiting new people into RLUGs and shifting members from a "regular member" to "exhibitor".

We have done two participation events with one more in the autumn. We will make minor improvements and adjustments based on the space available in the particular city. Everything does not fit everywhere. It also depends on how many AFOLs participate in the given action in the given location.

Our next event is Kostkovani Pardubice on 6-7.10.2018. We hope you can come visit or assist as we are open for cooperation.

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