“The talk show ‘Understanding the Behaviours of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder’ held in April showed me just how dedicated the organisation is. So when I heard about the ‘Learning Through Play’ training for university students, I signed up straight away. Throughout both training phases, I could really feel the trainers’ enthusiasm and genuine commitment to sharing their knowledge with us, with one clear goal: to benefit children with autism.”
– A heartfelt reflection from participant Mỹ Hằng.
Following the success of this year’s autism awareness activities, many university students studying Psychology, Social Work and Special Needs Education expressed an interest in continuing to strengthen both their knowledge and practical skills in working with children with autism. In response to this growing interest, saigonchildren organised a short training programme on Learning Through Play using a LEGO approach, equipping participants with a solid foundation of knowledge alongside valuable hands-on learning opportunities.


The training attracted enthusiastic participation from many young people. Following the selection process, more than 60 students joined the foundation course, with over 50 continuing to the advanced level.
Throughout the programme, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the “Learning Through Play” model using a LEGO approach. The training covered everything from understanding the broader picture of developmental disorders and the role of play in children’s learning, to using LEGO bricks as a tool to encourage communication, interaction and engagement.
Rather than simply listening to lectures, participants were immersed in a series of practical activities under the trainers’ clear, step-by-step guidance. Through group discussions, role-playing exercises and game design activities, they had opportunities to apply what they had learned in an engaging and supportive learning environment. Many described the training as visual and engaging, while also appreciating the well-paced schedule, which allowed enough time to fully experience each activity before putting it into practice.

This July, 35 students who successfully completed both training phases are moving into the final stage of the programme, undertaking supervised practice at shelters and intervention centres across Hồ Chí Minh City over the next two months.
Through these Mobile LEGO Clubs, classroom learning will be transformed into meaningful play sessions for around 100 children with special needs. Beyond providing valuable practical experience for the students, the initiative also helps bring the “Learning Through Play” model using a LEGO approach to more children, creating joyful learning experiences while supporting their communication, interaction and overall development.

