Lego symmetry
Build mirrored patterns side by side for a calm and creative play moment.
A calm, creative play idea that can be as mindful or as mathematical as you want it to be. Building symmetrical patterns with Lego or your favourite loose parts is surprisingly satisfying - a little bit puzzle, a little bit art.
It’s great for quiet focus, spatial awareness, and creativity (for kids and grownups alike).
For little ones, it’s a simple way to explore balance, colour, and early math concepts like mirroring. For adults, it can be a grounding screen-free activity that feels like tidying the mind while you play with form and colour.
You can set up one side of the board and invite your child to copy it, or create mirrored patterns side by side. Or, if you’re playing solo, just follow your curiosity - see where your hands and the bricks take you.
Perfect for winding down at the end of the day, keeping little hands busy during meal prep, or even as a quiet creative reset for yourself.
Materials
Prep
Step 1:
Gather your handful of lego bricks or other loose parts in different colours and sizes. Optionally grab a lego board to build on.
Step 2:
If you like, use a whiteboard marker to draw a line down the centre of the Lego board.
Play
Step 1:
Create a simple pattern.
Step 2:
Invite your child (or yourself!) to mirror it.
Step 3:
Once the basics are mastered, try creating your own designs from scratch.
Extend
Symmetry challenges: Draw or photograph simple Lego patterns to copy or adapt.
3D designs: Try stacking bricks to create symmetrical towers and shapes.
Timed builds: Add a playful challenge - can you mirror a pattern before the timer runs out?
Pattern match game: Find a co-builder and see if they can copy your pattern as you build. Compare patterns at the end and see if they match!
Make it mindful: Focus on breathing slowly as you build, noticing colours and shapes.
