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Profile: Children's natural curiosity can be fostered through exposure to loose parts items, as they allow them to explore, experiment and combine items that can solve puzzles and create questions. Read on for more insights around incorporating loose parts.
Written by: Early Educational Advisor - Jo Harris
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
Visit Bellbird’s website to click through our range of Educator Resources
How Water Play Teaches Children the Importance of Conservation
Whilst recognising that water is a precious resource, when using it to explore and explain its importance to life, children can learn valuable information about how and why it sustains life.
With just a few ingredients, simple experiments can be conducted with young children that assist in exploring the learning of abstract processes that create temporary and permanent changes.
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
Visit Bellbird’s website to click through our range of Educator Resources
2752 Looking for ideas and reasons to incorporate more loose parts items into your resources? Our Educational Advisory explores the topic of loose parts and their role in fostering children's natural curiosity. Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds 2752 Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds Children's natural curiosity can be fostered through exposure to loose parts items, as they allow them to explore, experiment and combine items that can solve puzzles and create questions. Read on for more insights around incorporating loose parts. 2752 3 3
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
Visit Bellbird’s website to click through our range of Educator Resources
Curious about Play Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
Visit Bellbird’s website to click through our range of Educator Resources
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
Visit Bellbird’s website to click through our range of Educator Resources
Curious about Play Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds 2752 2 Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds Children's natural curiosity can be fostered through exposure to loose parts items, as they allow them to explore, experiment and combine items that can solve puzzles and create questions. Read on for more insights around incorporating loose parts. Looking for ideas and reasons to incorporate more loose parts items into your resources? Our Educational Advisory explores the topic of loose parts and their role in fostering children's natural curiosity. blog 3 Blog Post 0000-00-00 00:00:00 2022-11-03 17:04:43
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
Visit Bellbird’s website to click through our range of Educator Resources
0 2752 Rethinking Resources to Inspire Curious Minds
Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play.
Including a selection of resources that have been pre-loved allows items to be re-imagined showing that materials can be used in many different ways - that they are adaptable, flexible and transformative allowing children to create and share new ideas.
The Magic of Loose Parts
You may or may not be familiar with the concept of loose parts within early learning education programming -but it is a term that is now a regular part of the vernacular. Loose parts are collections of assorted items that can be included in many areas of play including but not limited to:-
sensory and imaginative play
construction and building
problem-solving
investigative play
There is a trend toward providing resources and materials that support and encourage active learning, as they are important in sparking the curiosity required to develop inquiry skills that are explored naturally during play.
Easy to find and with a variety of uses, loose parts can be used in many different ways and there are endless possibilities with how they could be incorporated into various activities and experiences.
The magic of loose parts play is that just about any natural or recycled items could be included in a collection to be embedded within indoor and outdoor play and will become favourites that are returned to frequently.
Introducing Loose Parts to Children by age and stage of development
Whatever the age, key concepts in successfully introducing loose parts to Early Learning include:-
Introduce a few objects at a time to encourage exploration and for the children to have plenty of time to familiarise themselves with them
Keep an open mind with regard to objects that could be included in play and learning - there are many items around that are readily available
Include a variety of items made from different materials that have different textures that will appeal to the senses
Loose Parts For Babies and Toddlers
It may seem a safety concern to give very young children loose items to explore, but with thoughtful selection, they can start their play with specific materials to start. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious so it is a wonderful opportunity to respond to their needs.
A beautiful set of Natural Wooden Treasures are designed to stimulate the imagination and discover creative ability. Read our blog Benefits of Heuristic Play and learn how to create your own Treasure Baskets to encourage independent play and investigation, allowing children to make their own choices from a selection of different everyday items.
Loose Parts Collection for Preschoolers
Loose parts can be found everywhere, are in abundance, and are often free or low cost, which increases their worth - and can prevent more waste from going into landfill. They are a great addition to a collage trolley, ideal for pasting and making models offered in art or paper construction activities.
Items such as:
Cardboard, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, gift boxes.
Pine cones, leaves, twigs, stones
Straws, beads, pom poms, cotton wool.
Sand, sticks, pegs, string/twine, ribbons.
Recycled packaging including tissue boxes, hygienic craft rolls
Odd pieces from games like Scrabble tiles, keyboard letters, stickers
One reason for their popularity could be the focus that there is less pressure for children to create an end product, but instead enjoy the process of creation through experimentation.
Another is simply the joy of observing children developing their imagination and creativity and the opportunity to give new meaning to some objects that may have otherwise been discounted.
Displaying Loose Parts through Provocations
According to the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating a sense of order and encouraging children to witness the beauty of the world around us can go hand in hand.
Items like Tinker trays,Mahogany sorting tray and the Papoose Large wooden sorting tray have compartments that encourage classification and sorting skills to display many small items and treasures from all around the learning environment. It is also through this pedagogy, that children are invited to ask questions and are invited to seek answers through their play using a range of materials that offer the potential for discovery.
However, the opposite is also true when it comes to implementing loose parts resources. For example, when setting up a woodwork bench for children to explore, it is important to have an intention for the space in order for it to remain safe.
A child’s version of a work table equipped with tools, accessories, pieces of wood and a versatile tool belt that can be worn or attached to the workbench. Children will be able to familiarise themselves with basic carpentry and construction techniques. Many of these are also applicable to art play when glueing, sticking and assembling boxes and other materials together at the craft centre or even in block play.
The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
One of the major learning outcomes through loose parts play within the Early Years Learning Framework is Community. The connection between the use and reuse of materials directly supports elements of sustainable practices.
Many new products are being derived from waste products which reflects the changing demand for quality resources that are ethically sourced that could also be considered loose parts, as they often mirror other natural items such as stones and pebbles.
It could also occur organically by observing children following their shadows on a sunny day, leading to further exploration with loose parts such as old cd’s or dvd’s which can be hung in trees with them experimenting with different lengths of string or twine.
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Curiosity is not a thing that can be taught as such, but the importance of nurturing it in Early Learning is extremely important. When exploring the idea of curiosity, it can be helpful to think of it as a way to support experimentation and exploration, and the quality of those elements is where the true value lies. Although it cannot be measured, curiosity can be assessed through observation, conversation and how it is applied within a play setting, either through individual play or group play. 
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The Value of Loose Parts in Protecting the Environment and Sustainable Practices
