FIRST LEGO League Explore introduces students in grades 2–4 to STEM through hands-on learning, teamwork, and creativity. Guided by a coach, teams of up to six students meet throughout the season using 12 guided meeting sessions to explore a real-world challenge inspired by the annual FIRST theme. As they work together, students research the season’s topic, design and build a motorized LEGO® model using LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Essential, and learn the basics of programming to bring their ideas to life. They also create a Show Me Poster to share what they discovered, how they solved problems, and what they learned throughout the season. At the end of the season, teams attend an Explore Festival where they present their model and poster to volunteer reviewers, celebrate their accomplishments, and see the creative work of other teams. Rather than competing against one another, every team is recognized for its hard work, innovation, and teamwork, creating a fun and encouraging environment where every child can succeed.

Throughout the season, kids:
1. Explore a real-world STEM theme through hands-on research and discovery.
2. Design, build, and program a motorized LEGO® model using LEGO Education SPIKE™ Essential.
3. Create a Show Me Poster to share what they learned and how they worked as a team.
4. Develop teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills while practicing the FIRST Core Values.
5. Celebrate their accomplishments by presenting their model and poster at an Explore Festival, where every team is recognized for their hard work.

We express the FIRST® philosophies of Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition® through our Core Values:

Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems.
Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world.
Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together.
Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!

Festivals are non-competitive approximately three-hour events where teams celebrate their hard work, make new friendships and share their projects with the community. Each team discusses their challenge research, Show Me Poster, and LEGO model with FIRST LEGO League Explore reviewers. Colorado does not require or expect presentations; teams should think of their time with Reviewers as a conversation to communicate and show off what they have learned and experienced. Team building and demonstrations, including robot action, from the other FIRST programs, round out the Festival. Finally, the event concludes with a fun award and closing ceremony. In FIRST LEGO League Explore, everyone is a winner!

In Colorado, official Festivals usually take place on select Saturdays, scheduled between November and early May. Festivals will occur throughout the state, where there is a confluence of teams and several times during the season in areas of greater team density. Festivals typically run from 9 am to noon, but the time frame may vary, depending on the host site. All events are open to the public at no charge, within current restrictions for facility capacity.

FIRST LEGO League Explore needs two dedicated adult coaches to guide students throughout their STEM exploration journey. No technical skills are required!
Students do not need to have expressed an interest in STEM to participate – they just need a sense of adventure and curiosity to explore.

2 Coaches

2-6 Students

Ages 6-10

FIRST LEGO League Explore fees are charged per team. Costs typically include:

Yearly single team registration: $150 + approximately $18 (shipping and handling) and tax, if applicable – This fee includes the LEGO Explore Set. Learn More
Startup Equipment: $320.00 + approximately $15 (shipping and handling) and tax, if applicable – Each team needs a FIRST LEGO League Explore SPIKE Essential OR WeDo 2.0 Set (used with a Bluetooth-enabled mobile device or laptop, not included in listed cost). The robotics set is a one-time purchase that can be used in subsequent years. See Software Requirements for SPIKE Essential or Software Requirements for WeDo 2.0.
Festival Registration: $55

Optional costs:

Show Me poster supplies
Additional LEGO building elements
Team T-shirts
Snacks
Local travel to a FIRST LEGO League Explore Festival

FIRST LEGO League Challenge

Learn More

Start a Team

Season Resource Center

We express the FIRST® philosophies of Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition® through our Core Values:

2 Coaches

2-6 Students

Ages 6-10

Season Resource Center

Festival Schedule

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