Loose Parts

Loose Parts create richer environments for children to play, giving them resources to extend their play.

What are Loose Parts?

"Loose Parts" is a term introduced by Simon Nicholson, an architect in 1971.

Some examples of loose parts are:

natural resources - sticks, pinecones, mud, leaves

building materials and tools - planks, bricks, hammers

scrap materials - old gutters and pipes, cable rolls

random found objects

TASK

Can you think of some other examples of loose parts? Make a list. Go on a little adventure outside and collect some loose parts to bring to HEY.

The "affordances" or "uses" of loose parts are many. For example a stick can be many things .....

Loose parts don't come with instructions like store bought toys, there is not a right or wrong way to use them. They offer limitless possibilities. They teach children how to think for themselves.

Benefits of Loose Parts Play

Children become highly inventive, imaginative and creative in their play when using loose parts.

Children co-operate with their friends and socialise more.

Children become physically more active as they move things around.

Children problem solve as they figure out different ways to use the loose parts.

Children focus better and for longer.