Lego has introduced innovative “smart bricks” designed to enhance its traditional toys by incorporating lights, sound, and interactive features. Despite this technological advancement, an expert in early childhood development believes that such enhancements may limit the open-ended imaginative play that has long been associated with Lego toys.
The Danish toy company debuted its new Smart Play system at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, showcasing bricks and minifigures equipped with electronic components like miniature speakers and sensors to enable interactive responses to movement and sound. For instance, a new Star Wars-themed set includes pieces that produce lightsaber sounds and engine noises, while a Lego helicopter can emit whooshing sounds when manipulated.
In a press release, Lego stated that the new products are intended to stimulate children’s creativity and provide an interactive play experience rich in exploration and storytelling. However, Mariana Brussoni, a professor at the University of British Columbia, expressed concerns that the modern Lego kits, with pre-determined structures, may constrain imaginative play and hinder their effectiveness as developmental tools.
According to Brussoni, the latest smart toys may impose similar limitations on children’s creativity. She highlighted that if a child hears a specific sound from a Lego brick, their play may be restricted to representing that sound, limiting the diverse ways in which their imagination can influence their play experience.
Dr. Jillian Roberts, a professor at the University of Victoria specializing in educational psychology, views any initiative that diverts children from screens and encourages real-life interactions positively. However, she cautioned that these toys may not be suitable for children with sensory issues, such as those with autism spectrum disorder or photosensitive epilepsy, urging parents to consider their child’s sensory sensitivities before purchasing these toys.
The new smart toys are scheduled for release on March 1, with pre-orders commencing soon. Notably, they come at a premium price point, with a Darth Vader-themed set priced at $69.99 US and another set featuring Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia priced at $89.99 US.