FIRST LEGO League is the world's biggest youth robotics program. For grades K–8, it's how students first learn that they can build, code, and solve real problems — together.
Based on age and experience, students join one of two FLL divisions — each with its own format and difficulty.
For the youngest builders. Teams use LEGO® Education kits to explore a real-world theme through models, programming, and sharing what they learned. Not a competition — an introduction.
What students learn: basics of mechanical design, simple programming with LEGO's block coding, teamwork, and presentation.
For students ready for competition. Teams design and program an autonomous robot to complete missions on a themed game field, while also researching a real-world problem and proposing a solution.
What students learn: autonomous robotics, sensors, iterative engineering, research skills, and public speaking — everything needed to succeed at FTC and beyond.
8–12 weeks, typically meeting once a week for 1–2 hours. Summer camps are shorter (1–2 weeks).
Small teams of 2–6 students (Explore) or 2–10 students (Challenge). Close-knit, collaborative.
Varies. Loudoun Robotics subsidizes costs through donations and sponsorships — we never turn a student away for financial reasons.
Whether you're a parent curious about the program or a coach getting started, these are the essential links.
The authoritative home for FLL. Registration, current season materials, and program guidance.
Visit FIRST Inspires →Our curated YouTube playlist — build tutorials, coding fundamentals, season strategy.
Watch the playlist →Full list of FLL (and FTC) resources organized by audience.
View resources page →Join an upcoming FLL summer camp session at Gum Spring Library, or start a new team at your school.
