It was during Christmas last year when Berwick woman Bindy Cammell realised the power of Lego.
Her son Corey had enjoyed playing with it since he was four, but at aged nine, he gave his undivided attention to creating something amazing with his Christmas gift. He built with Lego sets for eight hours, focused only on the little pieces in front of him, his eyes wide with excitement.
“Corey is so passionate about it. His face lights up, he gets creative and focuses completely,” Bindy said.
So it was with her son’s interest in mind that she decided to investigate a franchise opportunity she had seen advertised on Seek.com in January.
At age 47, she threw caution to the wind and left her corporate background to begin a new career with Bricks 4 Kidz. She had an exploratory meeting, a training course, and finally launched her own business in September – a move she said has changed her life for the better.
Bindy had thought previously about becoming a teacher, but was not sure if teaching 25 children in a structured classroom was for her. Now she gets to teach smaller groups of kids, of all ages and abilities, about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) concepts. And it all takes place in a fun environment, where they want to learn and take pride in their work.
Bindy said the benefits of the program were enormous.
“It gives kids so much confidence. Especially those who are not necessarily mainstream or don’t learn well in a large classroom atmosphere. They build trust, confidence, follow instructions, problem-solve, and build awesome creations. The joy they get out of creating something is amazing,” she said. “It gives them skills that are valuable throughout life.”
Bindy said the classes catered to the children’s interests and abilities, and were for both boys and girls.
“We can incorporate things they enjoy, with themes including Mining and Crafting, Freezing, Minions and Space Adventures. For some of the younger kids we talk about numbers, letters, colours, animals or items around the house. The possibilities are limitless.”
Bindy said that while the Casey based program was quite new, families had been quick to jump on board. She currently runs before and after school programs, but also runs school holiday programs, birthday parties and plans to extend the program into schools next year.
“Lego is timeless,” she said.
“It’s one of those things that will never go out of fashion.”
For more information call Bindy on 0400 125 714 or visit bricks4kidzaustralia.com.au
