By Danielle Kutchel
Watching eight-year-old Poppy connecting a series of multicoloured Lego pieces, you can see her imagination is fired up.
As she delves into the box, hunting for that elusive next piece, it’s clear she has a vision for her sculpture and is determined to make it work.
Poppy discovered her passion for the world-famous building blocks at Cranbourne Library when she and her mum found the Lego Club.
Run by Casey Cardinia Libraries, the Lego Club allows kids from age four to 14 to harness their inner engineer and build crazy Lego creations.
For Poppy, who was born with only half a functioning heart, the Lego Club was a life-changer.
Her mother Amelia said the club gave Poppy the opportunity to meet other kids her own age and broaden her social circle.
“A child like Poppy can’t necessarily participate in all the things that other children do,” she said.
“The Lego Club though gives Poppy a creative outlet that also fosters her passion.”
Through the club, Poppy has also learnt patience and problem-solving skills – for when, as Poppy herself explained, the Lego “disagrees” with her.
Poppy said she loves her library, with its multitude of books to sink her teeth into, and the Lego Club where she can “build lots of things”.
Amelia said Poppy comes to the Lego Club every week when it’s on and is hoping to get involved in the STEAM Club next term.
Casey Cardinia Libraries is currently raising funds to expand its science programs.
The organisation runs a variety of programs and events for all ages, and while core operations are covered by government funding, it sometimes needs help to grow its other programs.
According to the library, $30 buys a Lego Classics set for one of its branches; $100 provides circuit kits so that children can learn how to light up their model; and $150 will allow the library to buy a set of LEGO Technic motors so that children can create moving parts.
Casey Cardinia Libraries is looking to raise $10,000 this winter.
To donate, visit https://www.cclc.vic.gov.au/help-grow-our-lego-and-science-programs/
