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

CategoryDescriptionPoints
Educational PotentialThe idea demonstrates an understanding of learning through play, a STEM approach, and clear pedagogical goals.up to 30
Innovation and CreativityThe proposal includes original methods, play-based scenarios, and integration of different disciplines.up to 25
Engagement and SustainabilityThe team shows willingness for long-term implementation and sharing of the experience.up to 20
Impact on ChildrenThe project improves social, emotional, and cognitive skills; includes inclusive practices.up to 15
Quality of PresentationThe application is clear, inspiring, and professionally prepared.up to 10
Bonus PointsFor institutions from smaller towns or those working with children with special educational needs.up to +5

Stages and Deadlines

StagePeriodActivities
Preparation and Announcement1 – 15 November 2025Preparation of materials, publication of the call, communication with media and partners.
Application Period17 November – 19 December 2025Submission of applications.
Evaluationuntil 23 December 2025Review by a jury composed of representatives of the foundation and education experts.
Winner Announcement23 December 2025Publication of the results and award ceremony.
Implementation and Follow-upJanuary – June 2026Use of the LEGO set, training, sharing results and good practices.

Evaluation Criteria

CategoryDescriptionPoints
Educational PotentialThe idea demonstrates an understanding of learning through play, a STEM approach, and clear pedagogical goals.up to 30
Innovation and CreativityThe proposal includes original methods, play-based scenarios, and integration of different disciplines.up to 25
Engagement and SustainabilityThe team shows willingness for long-term implementation and sharing of the experience.up to 20
Impact on ChildrenThe project improves social, emotional, and cognitive skills; includes inclusive practices.up to 15
Quality of PresentationThe application is clear, inspiring, and professionally prepared.up to 10
Bonus PointsFor institutions from smaller towns or those working with children with special educational needs.up to +5

Stages and Deadlines

StagePeriodActivities
Preparation and Announcement1 – 15 November 2025Preparation of materials, publication of the call, communication with media and partners.
Application Period17 November – 19 December 2025Submission of applications.
Evaluationuntil 23 December 2025Review by a jury composed of representatives of the foundation and education experts.
Winner Announcement23 December 2025Publication of the results and award ceremony.
Implementation and Follow-upJanuary – June 2026Use of the LEGO set, training, sharing results and good practices.

LEGO Вдъхновители:
Ученето като игра

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