Finding zen in the chaos - how Brick Club supports through schematic play

Emma Avis
Jun 29
2 min read

Creating imaginative worlds with LEGO allows us to explore and understand the complexities of our own lives.

Ever Feel Like Everything’s Just Too Much?

You know those moments — the noise, the clutter, the constant demands from everyone around you. You’re not sure if you’re coming or going, and the chaos just feels endless.

But here’s something you might not realise: even in the middle of all that mess, there are small things you do that help restore a sense of calm and control. And believe it or not, those habits are rooted in something deeply human — patterns of play and behaviour that start in childhood.

Let’s talk schemas.

Schemas are repeated patterns of action — like lining things up, stacking, transporting, enclosing, or sorting. These aren't just quirks of childhood; they’re part of how we all make sense of the world. Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget observed that children develop understanding through these patterns of interaction, using them as building blocks (pun intended!) for more complex thinking later on.

At Brick Club with Emma, we tap into these natural tendencies. Children are free to explore through building, arranging, sorting, and reordering. These schematic behaviours help kids gain a sense of autonomy and control — especially important in a world that can often feel unpredictable. These routines also support brain development, emotional regulation, and social skills. Simply put: play like this isn’t just fun — it’s foundational.

So next time you feel oddly satisfied after lining up the cushions just so, sorting the laundry by colour, or sinking that paper ball into the bin from across the room — take a moment to smile. That’s your brain enjoying a little order in the chaos.

And that’s what Brick Club offers your child — moments of mastery, joy, and connection through play.

To learn more about how schematic play supports your child’s development, check out Schemas: Learning through Play — a parent-friendly guide by Education Scotland.