Loose Parts: A Project

Loose Parts-A Project

“In early childhood education (EC) settings, loose parts mean alluring, beautiful found objects and materials that children can move, manipulate, control and change while they play. Children can carry, combine, redesign, line up, take apart, and put loose parts back together in almost endless ways. The materials come with no specific set of directions, and they can be used alone or combined with other materials. Children can turn them into whatever they desire….these objects invited conversations and interactions, and they encourage collaboration and cooperation.” (Daly and Beloglovsky, 2015)

Loose parts offer infinite possibilities for exploration and learning in an open-ended way. Children are constantly discovering new ways to manipulate these materials, creates a way for students to develop essential skills. Our DSLO’s (Desired Student Learning Outcomes for SAS) of Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking,  Creativity, Cultural Competence, and Character are in full force during these explorations and learning experiences.

There are a variety of different themes evident in the exploring happening in the classroom, from using senses (in colors, patterns, textures and sounds,) to creativity (in designs and art,) to inquiry and action (connecting, investigating, movement…) It is amazing to watch and listen to the students interacting with each other, their environment and the materials.

Here are just SOME examples of loose parts in action in the learning hub…