The article describes how LEGO kits can be used to successfully teach robotic design and kinematic analysis, mostly in mobile and biologically inspired laboratories. To make a laboratory experience more similar to the real design and operation of a robotic system, it is possible to develop an experimental curriculum using the LEGO basic robotics kit, enhanced with additional sensors (either from the standard catalogue or self made) to achieve sufficient freedom in the design and fabrication of the robot prototypes. The article provides the results of the innovative use of the LEGO kits in robotic laboratories for high school and college students at the University of Verona.