Loose Parts

When I was in the classroom, loose parts were one of my biggest lesson. I did a lot of loose parts with kids during my practicum and work.

What are loose parts?

Loose parts are materials that can be moved all around the room and used in endless ways. There are essentially no limits to what can be used, but you can refer to this website for more information.

Why Loose Parts?

The versatility of these materials provides children with virtually endless ways to create. Access to a variety of transient materials during play and exploration aids in the following:

Problem Solving

Engineering

Creativity

Concentration

Hand-eye coordination

Fine motor development

Gross motor development

Language and vocabulary building

Mathematical thinking

Scientific thinking

Literacy

Social/emotional development

The list goes on and on…

Gathering Loose Parts

You may be thinking, “Well that sounds great, but I don't have the funds to gather all of these materials.” That's the beauty of loose parts, they don't have to be purchased at the store! Most items you already have lying around your house. If you don't, someone in your family does or your students' families! Also, most of the local hardware stores are willing to donate materials such as pvc pipe they have cut but can't use or old wire spools.