Why loose parts play?
Loose Parts play is a term we love here at Good Dough co.
Good dough co are on a mission to support children in open-ended play adventures. What better way to do this, than with loose parts. Loose parts play allows for open-ended exploration and creativity, as children have the freedom to use materials in various ways and engage in imaginative play.
Where did loose parts originate?
The theory behind loose parts was developed by architect Simon Nicholson, in the early 1970s.
Loose parts play has been identified as play that supports children's imaginations, problem solving skills, hypothesising, making predictions, constructing and making connections.
Loose parts play is a type of play that involves providing children with open-ended materials such as sticks, rocks, and fabric, that they can manipulate and use in various ways to create their own play experiences. This type of play helps to foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and social development in children.
Loose parts play is a one of the first stages of play that we observe, children naturally gather various objects and use them to create something new and imaginative.
Why loose parts play is important?
Loose parts are important because it allows for open-ended and creative play, promotes problem-solving skills, and encourages children to use their imagination and explore different possibilities. Loose parts play also exposes children to numeracy and literacy play and helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
what are some loose parts play ideas?
The secret to setting up an appealing loose parts activity is to consider the aesthetics. A shelf with natural baskets and items that are sorted according to shape and size, some books that offer inspiration or photos of objects they may like to create. Loose parts do not have to be expensive and can include a lot of recycled play items such as carboard boxes and bottle caps. Next time you are putting out your recycling, consider what can be used for loose parts play.
The best loose parts activities;
- Making things with with blocks, stones, or sticks
- Building sandcastles with natural materials like shells and sticks
- Using cardboard boxes, masking tape and tubes to build objects of choice
- Sorting and arranging objects by size, color, or shape
- Imaginative play with dress-up clothes, puppets, or dolls
- Experimenting with sound and rhythm using objects to make instruments
- Creating art with natural materials like leaves, flowers, and twigs
- Using pipe cleaners, beads, toilet rolls for threading
Remember, the possibilities for loose parts play are endless - encourage creativity and exploration!
Is there somewhere you can buy loose parts resources?
If you are in Melbourne or NSW, you are in luck! These places are heaps of fun!
For Melbournians, check out resource rescue- https://discountcraftsupplies.com.au/ or https://rat.org.au/ or if you are in NSW try reverse garbage https://reversegarbage.org.au/.
Blog courtesy of Jem @create4me_