Interactive Guide to FIRST LEGO League

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

The FIRST LEGO League (FLL) robotics competition is an international STEM program designed to inspire kids (ages 4-16) through hands-on learning with robotics, engineering, and teamwork. It's part of the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) family of programs and combines LEGO-based robot building with real-world problem-solving challenges.

The Three Levels of FLL

1. Discover

Ages 4-6

Simple LEGO building activities designed to introduce basic STEM concepts and the world around them.

2. Explore

Ages 6-10

Students work with the LEGO Education SPIKE Essential set to explore real-world problems and present a model and poster.

3. Challenge

Ages 9-16

This is what most people mean by "FLL." Teams design and program an autonomous robot to solve missions and complete an Innovation Project.

A Deep Dive into the FLL Challenge

The FLL Challenge is the main competition for ages 9-16 and is built around two key components: The Robot Game and the Innovation Project. Teams are also judged on their Core Values, which emphasize teamwork, discovery, and respect. This section breaks down the two main deliverables.

🤖 The Robot Game

Teams build and program an autonomous LEGO robot (using SPIKE Prime or EV3) to complete up to 15+ missions on a themed 4x8 ft mat. Each match lasts 2.5 minutes, and the robot runs entirely on its own—no remote controls allowed!

Points are earned for missions like moving items, activating mechanisms, and delivering objects.
Autonomous Runs: The robot must leave a "base" area on its own for each attempt.
Strategy is Key: Teams must decide which missions to attempt and in what order to maximize their score.

💡 The Innovation Project

Each year's theme relates to a real-world issue (e.g., energy, transportation). Teams must research a problem connected to the theme, create an innovative solution, and share it with others.

Research: Identify a specific problem and learn from experts.
Innovate: Brainstorm and design a creative, practical solution.
Present: Share the solution with judges in a 5-minute creative presentation (e.g., skit, demo, or pitch).

Your Guide to FLL Success

Welcome to the FLL knowledge base! This section contains tips, guides, and strategies for every aspect of the competition. Use the filters below to find the topics most relevant to you, whether you're a new coach, a veteran team member, or a curious parent.

How to Start an FLL Team

A step-by-step guide on registration, kit costs, finding members, and setting expectations.

5 Key Attachments Every FLL Robot Needs

Explore designs for pushers, pullers, lifters, and passive vs. active attachments.

How to Plan a Successful FLL Season

A timeline and checklist for balancing the project, robot game, and core values from start to finish.

The Value of FLL: Why Kids Should Join

Focus on soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and resilience.

How to Code FLL Missions in SPIKE Prime

Beginner-friendly tutorial on movement, sensors, and creating reliable "My Blocks".

A Guide to FLL Core Values

Break down what "Discovery," "Innovation," "Impact," "Inclusion," "Teamwork," and "Fun" really mean.

How to Use LEGO Robot Sensors

Tutorial on Color, Force, and Ultrasonic/Distance sensors for navigation and consistency.

How to Set Up Your FLL Role Board

Keep kids focused with defined roles: Builder, Programmer, Project Lead, Core Values Captain.

How to Practice FLL Judging

Run mock judging sessions with scripts, timers, and practice questions for all 3 categories.

Fundraising Ideas for Your Robotics Team

Practical tips from bake sales and restaurant nights to writing sponsor letters.

How to Choose a Great FLL Project

Guide on brainstorming, research, and picking a project judges love.

How to Give a Great Project Presentation

Advice on storytelling, props, slides, demonstrations, and staying within time limits.

What FLL Judges Are Really Looking For

Break down how judges assess teamwork, design, research, and Core Values.

How to Handle Competition Day Stress

Strategies for emotional regulation, roles, pacing, and staying positive when things go wrong.

Common FLL Mistakes for New Teams

Covers overbuilding, late coding, ignoring core values, and unrealistic mission planning.

How to Run a Great FLL Practice

Teach coaches how to turn chaos into productivity with agendas, stations, and rotation.

Budget Tips for FLL Teams

Covers parts planning, fundraising ideas, buying used sets, and avoiding unnecessary purchases.

How to Build an FLL Field Setup at Home

A guide on mats, plywood bases, storage tips, and using printed practice mats.

Teamwork Skills for FLL

Offer drills and activities to help teams take ownership and work as a true group.

The First-Time Coach Survival Guide

Personal, relatable advice that attracts readers through authenticity and avoidable mistakes.