MAKING HISTORY — The Ohio Valley Youth Network and Six Bricks USA partnered to host an inaugural training session Jan. 8-9, making history at the Sycamore Youth Center. The nonprofit organizations joined forces to bring a global educational phenomenon to the United States. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — History was made within the walls of the Sycamore Youth Center earlier this month as two local nonprofits joined forces to bring a global educational phenomenon to the United States, in person for the very first time.

The Ohio Valley Youth Network and Six Bricks USA partnered to host an inaugural training session on Jan. 8-9, marking a significant milestone for the LEGO-based educational approach.

And it happened right here, in Steubenville. The two-day event was far from a passive seminar. Instead, it was a whirlwind of activity that saw 16 participants earn their certifications as Six Bricks Level 1 and 2 educators.

Led by Theresa Paterra of Six Bricks USA and Indian Creek Middle School Sycamore Stars, alongside Michelle Clum of the Sycamore Youth Center, the training guided approximately 20 attendees through an immersive experience designed to showcase the power of six simple, colorful bricks.

The methodology centers on strengthening what experts call SNaPCLaP skills — an acronym for social-emotional, numeracy, perceptual, creativity, literacy and physical development. Throughout these sessions, the room was filled with movement and collaboration as participants engaged in interactive exercises aimed at critical thinking and problem-solving. Organizers noted the primary goal was to equip area educators and professionals with tangible tools that make learning three-dimensional, providing a vital alternative in a modern world increasingly dominated by digital screens.

Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative.

Bauman noted the center is thrilled to be at the forefront of bringing this hands-on approach to the country. He emphasized the training aligns perfectly with the center’s mission to encourage creativity and critical thinking, helping young people literally construct their own ideas rather than simply scrolling past those of others.

The impact of the program will soon be felt by local students, as these new strategies are set to be incorporated into after-school programs, including the Sycamore center and Sycamore Stars.

The energy felt during the certification process was unmistakable, characterized by “a-ha” moments.

One participant joked about having “nightmares about that yellow brick,” while another reflected on how their perception of the tool had shifted, realizing that while they initially thought Six Bricks was only for small children, it is easily adaptable for older students and adults.

This versatility is a hallmark of the program. It is currently utilized by a wide spectrum of professionals, from occupational and physical therapists and social workers to church leaders and nursing home coordinators.

Serving learners from ages 1 to 101, the approach proves that play is a universal language for development. As the inaugural session concluded, the 16 newly-certified educators were informed they are now eligible to pursue Level 4 training, with further details expected to be announced in the near future.

For those looking to begin their own journey with this innovative educational tool or anyone seeking information on upcoming sessions, inquiries can be directed to Paterra at theresa@sixbricksusa.org.