When you combine loose parts, free time, and some nice weather the imagination really takes off! It’s true that all young humans crave repetition, order, and even working with small objects between the ages of 1 and 4 years, specifically. While avoiding choking hazards and a giant mess, it is really possible to incorporate loose-parts-play in the afternoon. We suggest getting the environment ready during nap time so your child can wake up and immediately put their creative brain to work. Limit the choices and don’t be afraid to repeat objects. You never know what will be inspiring tomorrow! Loose parts provide more than creative outlets, they allow children to enhance their organization skills. When organizing loose parts children also create muscle memories that create long-lasting connections with textures. Trial and error is a large part of learning and experimenting in life, so providing loose parts to your young child can provide them a chance to practice patience and highlights their own determination toward getting something to “work”  – here are 38 suggestions to materials to add to your loose parts bins and shelves;

  1. Flower pots
  2. Ceramic tiles
  3. Metal lids
  4. Muffin tins
  5. Old watches
  6. Old clocks
  7. Bolts
  8. Wooden frames w/glass removed
  9. Spools
  10. Wooden scraps
  11. Candlesticks/tea lights
  12. Golf tees
  13. Wooden pegs
  14. Corks
  15. Clothespins
  16. Funnels
  17. Bubbles wrap
  18. Buttons
  19. Old game board pieces
  20. Shower curtain rings
  21. Shower curtain liners
  22. Empty glass jars
  23. Small fishing reels w/o line
  24. PVC pipe parts
  25. Milk caps, bottle caps
  26. Lace
  27. Thread
  28. Yarn
  29. Ribbon
  30. Twine
  31. Egg cartons
  32. Painters tape
  33. Cardboard scraps
  34. Anise stars
  35. Feathers
  36. Seeds
  37. Acorns, pinecones, twigs
  38. Single stem flowers (carnations)

 

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