A wise teacher we know once said the best educational tools are the ones that sneak learning into fun, enjoyable activities.

That’s what was going on Saturday at the Glenn T. Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center located at Northern Michigan University.

Fourteen upper elementary school teams from the Upper Peninsula participated in the FIRST Lego League Challenge qualifier, according to a Mining Journal story on the issue.

The event gave participants a chance to use robots to advance to the Challenge state tournament scheduled to take place this Saturday in downstate Mason.

Ok, let’s start with Legos. What construction-minded child doesn’t love them? Heck, we know more than a few adults that enjoy putting the tiny building blocks and other assorted pieces together.

Now, add building robots and you might be approaching playtime nirvana for a lot of kids.

The Journal story noted FIRST stands for “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.”

The mission is to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders and innovators by engaging them in mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills; inspire innovation; and foster well-rounded life capabilities, including self-confidence, communication and leadership.

By all accounts, the kids involved had a great time and certainly much learning took place — a win, win situation.