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;
- Flower pots
- Ceramic tiles
- Metal lids
- Muffin tins
- Old watches
- Old clocks
- Bolts
- Wooden frames w/glass removed
- Spools
- Wooden scraps
- Candlesticks/tea lights
- Golf tees
- Wooden pegs
- Corks
- Clothespins
- Funnels
- Bubbles wrap
- Buttons
- Old game board pieces
- Shower curtain rings
- Shower curtain liners
- Empty glass jars
- Small fishing reels w/o line
- PVC pipe parts
- Milk caps, bottle caps
- Lace
- Thread
- Yarn
- Ribbon
- Twine
- Egg cartons
- Painters tape
- Cardboard scraps
- Anise stars
- Feathers
- Seeds
- Acorns, pinecones, twigs
- Single stem flowers (carnations)

