LEGO Inspirers: Learning as Play
National Competition by the “Dokova and Dokov for the Future” Foundation
Here is the English translation:
Play is the natural language of children. Through it, they discover the world, develop their thinking, and learn to work together. That is why the “Dokova and Dokov for the Future” Foundation created the initiative “LEGO Inspirers: Learning as Play” – a national competition for kindergartens and educational institutions that believe play is the most powerful tool for learning.
The project gives one institution the opportunity to win a complete LEGO® Education Start set – a proven platform for early childhood development that stimulates imagination, logical thinking, emotional intelligence, and teamwork.
Our mission is to support the teachers who reinvent learning and turn every activity into an adventure.
Be a LEGO® INSPIRATIONALIST
Here is the English translation:
Early childhood education is changing. Today, the focus is on experience, play, exploration, and emotional development.
For years, LEGO® Education has been a global leader in this approach, providing teachers with practical tools for learning through:
free play and experimentation
project-based learning
social–emotional development
integration of STEM elements
The foundation has a complete LEGO® Education Start set, designed for kindergartens, and our goal is for it to reach a team that will use it actively, creatively, and responsibly.
Project Goals
With the “LEGO Inspirers” initiative, we set several key goals:
Encouraging innovative methods in preschool education
We support teaching teams that aim to develop competencies through play, experience, and collaboration.
Real conditions for learning through play
We provide a tool that develops curiosity, communication, creativity, and logical thinking.
Sharing good practices
We aim to collect and promote successful ideas that can inspire other kindergartens across the country.
Support for teachers
We help teams enhance their skills and receive recognition for their work.
Who Can Participate?
The competition is open to:
kindergartens
preparatory groups in schools
early childhood development centers
educational organizations in Bulgaria
Applications must be submitted on behalf of the institution – by its director or teaching team.
How to Apply?
Motivation letter (up to 1 page)
Describe:
why you want to participate
how LEGO® Education will support your work
what changes you expect in the children and the team
Project Idea (up to 1 page)
You need to present:
a specific activity, module, or program in which LEGO® will be used
goals and expected outcomes
an implementation plan
how you will measure success
Team Presentation (up to 1 page)
Include:
names and roles
experience in innovative teaching
a brief history, mission, and values of the institution
Video or Visual Presentation (optional, up to 2 minutes)
You may show:
the team
the environment
children in action
a short message: “Why we believe in learning through play”
The file should be submitted via a link (YouTube, Google Drive, etc.).
Award
The winner receives:
A training session with an expert in LEGO Education or early childhood development
A certificate
“LEGO Inspirer” recognition for the institution and the team
A complete LEGO® Education Start set, including:
Emotions
My XL World
Story Tales
STEAM Park
Coding Express
Tech Machines
Animals
People
Duplo Large
Evaluation Criteria
| Category | Description | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Potential | The idea demonstrates an understanding of learning through play, a STEM approach, and clear pedagogical goals. | up to 30 |
| Innovation and Creativity | The proposal includes original methods, play-based scenarios, and integration of different disciplines. | up to 25 |
| Engagement and Sustainability | The team shows willingness for long-term implementation and sharing of the experience. | up to 20 |
| Impact on Children | The project improves social, emotional, and cognitive skills; includes inclusive practices. | up to 15 |
| Quality of Presentation | The application is clear, inspiring, and professionally prepared. | up to 10 |
| Bonus Points | For institutions from smaller towns or those working with children with special educational needs. | up to +5 |
Stages and Deadlines
| Stage | Period | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation and Announcement | 1 – 15 November 2025 | Preparation of materials, publication of the call, communication with media and partners. |
| Application Period | 17 November – 19 December 2025 | Submission of applications. |
| Evaluation | until 23 December 2025 | Review by a jury composed of representatives of the foundation and education experts. |
| Winner Announcement | 23 December 2025 | Publication of the results and award ceremony. |
| Implementation and Follow-up | January – June 2026 | Use of the LEGO set, training, sharing results and good practices. |
Evaluation Criteria
| Category | Description | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Potential | The idea demonstrates an understanding of learning through play, a STEM approach, and clear pedagogical goals. | up to 30 |
| Innovation and Creativity | The proposal includes original methods, play-based scenarios, and integration of different disciplines. | up to 25 |
| Engagement and Sustainability | The team shows willingness for long-term implementation and sharing of the experience. | up to 20 |
| Impact on Children | The project improves social, emotional, and cognitive skills; includes inclusive practices. | up to 15 |
| Quality of Presentation | The application is clear, inspiring, and professionally prepared. | up to 10 |
| Bonus Points | For institutions from smaller towns or those working with children with special educational needs. | up to +5 |
Stages and Deadlines
| Stage | Period | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation and Announcement | 1 – 15 November 2025 | Preparation of materials, publication of the call, communication with media and partners. |
| Application Period | 17 November – 19 December 2025 | Submission of applications. |
| Evaluation | until 23 December 2025 | Review by a jury composed of representatives of the foundation and education experts. |
| Winner Announcement | 23 December 2025 | Publication of the results and award ceremony. |
| Implementation and Follow-up | January – June 2026 | Use of the LEGO set, training, sharing results and good practices. |