What is loose parts play and why is it important for children’s development?

Loose parts are one of the most wonderful early learning resources for the home and the learning environment. They are open-ended resources that are so very versatile and encourage children’s infinite imagination and creativity. I strongly believe a mix of repurposed, found and ethically sourced loose parts are the perfect resources for children’s learning. 

Here is an ever growing list of loose parts that we love that I have used over the years in my classrooms and I know you’ll love them too. 

Over 50+ Loose Parts Play Ideas for Young Children

1. Colourful scarves from a thrift store
2. Scarves in neutral and earthy tones
3. Play silks
4. Colourful fabric scraps 
5. Neutral earthy tones fabric scraps
6. Napkin Rings 
7. Curtain rings
8. Bracelets and bangles
9. Wooden discs
10. Drink coasters
11. Polished stones
12. Polished pebbles
13. Small sticks collected from gardens
14. Ribbon pieces 
15. Yarn and Wool pieces 
16. Hand made pom poms in colourful arrangements or neutral and earthy tones
17. Christmas tree decorations
18. Pieces of natural rope and sisal 
19. Pieces of twine 
20. Large beads from broken jewelry 
21. Small cutting boards
22. Feathers
23. Wooden golf tees 
24. Bells 
25. Dice 
26. Wooden craft pieces
27. Wooden spools  
28. Sea shells 
29. Glass stones
30. Wooden letters
31. Bottle corks
32. Mini branch tree cookies 
33. Cardboard cylinders
34. Cardboard tubes 
35. Small gift boxes 
36. Wooden dowel
37. Wooden bowls 
38. Small wooden blocks 
39.  Small colourful felted wool pom poms
40. Wool felt river stones
41.  Buttons
42. Wooden utensils
43. Small fabric scraps 
44. Wooden peg dolls 
45. Dolly pegs 
46. Wooden clothes pegs 
47. Felt pieces 
48. Raffia
49. Small draw string bags
50. Natural sponges 
51. Cellulose sponge pieces 
52. Decorative cardboard straws
53.  Wooden spoons, forks, knives 
54.  To Be Continued …