The Block Kids Competition is a national building program competition that is sponsored on local levels. Local winning entries advance to Regional Competition and on semi-finalist from each region in entered in the National Program competition.

The Block Kids Program introduces students in grades 1 thru 6 to the construction industry in an effort to create an awareness of and to promote an interest in one of the many facets of the industry. The program is non-discriminatory and as such is open to all elementary school children. All eligible students must participate through a recognized Sponsor.

The industry continues to face a workforce shortage that poses a serious problem for our national economy. NEF (NAWIC Education Foundation) encourages all chapters to sponsor this program in their communities.

The students’ have creative ideas and it’s great to see the various projects that they build with these plastic blocks, string, cardboard and aluminum foil!!! If your chapter has not sponsored a Block Kids competition, why not make it happen this year.

Hello All,

I am so excited to be your National Block Kids Chair for the 2011-2012 year. Block Kids has been my favorite event since I joined NAWIC ten years ago! Please let me begin by giving you the important deadline dates for the 2011-2012 year:

All entries to Regional Chair no later than March 23, 2012.
Regional Chair announces winner: March 30, 2012.
All entries to National Chair no later than April 6, 2012.
National Chair Announces winner: April 16, 2012.

It is also very important to visit the NEF Website to ensure that all of the forms you are using are current.

This year, I am pleased to introduce the “Block Kids Companion Handbook”. This booklet is not intended to replace the NEF Block Kids Guidelines. It is intended to share ideas and best practices and to assist those chapters who have never held this event or maybe struggle with the planning stages. So, please take a few moments to check it out!

If any of you have questions, concerns or comments, please feel free to contact me.

Happy Building,
Paula Lane, CIT
1209 Meissen Ave. NW
Palm Bay, FL 32907

For more information about the Block Kids Competition, go to the NEF website on the Block Kids Page.

Make sure that your entries follow the guidelines which includes registration, sponsor, and judging forms along with colored photos of the project. Each Chapter must submit the winning entry to Karla Steele no later than March 23, 2012. No exceptions will be made.

Do not hesitate to contact your Block Kids Region 8 Chair if you have questions regarding the contest.