Youngsters peruse a scientific display at last year's Jr. FIRST Lego League Expo.

Photo Credit: Lew Finkel and Stamford Robotics

One of last year's exhibits showcases the work done by the youngsters.

Photo Credit: Lew Finkel and Stamford Robotics

Richard Blumenthal, center, is one of the visitors to the 2010 expo.

Photo Credit: Lew Finkel and Stamford Robotics

Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia listens as youngsters explain their project last year.

Photo Credit: Lew Finkel and Stamford Robotics

The 2010 expo draws a crowd of supporters. This year’s event needs volunteers.

Photo Credit: Lew Finkel and Stamford Robotics

More than 180 kids are preparing to display the results of their scientific skills at the fourth annual Jr. FIRST Lego League Expo, and organizers are seeking volunteers to help with the event. It will take place 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 13, at the Academy of Information Technology & Engineering.

"We are especially looking for volunteers to help plan and execute the team event activity for this year. It is a critical part of the event for the kids," said Peter Dowling, cofounder of Stamford Robotics. "We also need volunteers to be team reviewers – judges — and also day-of-event volunteers."

The FIRST – or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology – Lego League Expo showcases science and technology projects constructed by teams using Lego blocks. The junior division is for ages 6 through 9.

This year's projects are inspired by the theme "Engineering Meets Medicine" as it addresses aspects of "Body Forward." Thirty teams will display projects relating to the human body and how it works, focusing on a specific body part or medical instrument.

Visitors to last year's event included Richard Blumenthal, then the attorney general, and Mayor Michael Pavia, who looked at and learned about the various projects.

"We're in the final stretch," said Dowling. "And we need volunteers."

Area residents may register to volunteer on the Stamford Robotics website. Those who sign up by Jan. 21 can choose their event T-shirt size and their names will be included in the program book.

Were you a Lego fan growing up? Are you interested in volunteering for the expo? Leave a comment below!