Loose parts play is unstructured play that invites children to be imaginative and inventive. There’s all kind of learning happening while children are having fun. It’s good for a wide age range. And loose parts play can be indoors or outdoors.

What are loose parts?

Loose parts are open-ended play materials that spark imagination and invention. They invite creativity. They support learning.

Loose parts are materials that can be moved, carried, combined, redesigned, lined up, and taken apart and put back together in multiple ways. Loose parts can be used alone or combined with other materials. There is no set of specific directions for materials that are considered loose parts. The child is the direction.

What are the benefits of loose parts play?

Loose parts play helps develop:

• problem solving, experimentation and risk taking
• imagination and creativity
• concentration and focus
• hand-eye coordination
• large and small muscle development
• independence
• self confidence

This type of play is accessible. The materials can be free or inexpensive.

What are examples loose parts?

Loose parts can be natural or synthetic materials. Some can be found in nature. Others can be found around the house. Some can be purchased, but that isn’t necessary.

You can find these loose parts and more outside:

• rocks
• sticks
• dirt or sand
• leaves
• pine cones

You can find these loose parts and more around the house:

• containers: buckets, baskets, boxes
• toys: blocks, dramatic play materials, toys cars and figures
• recyclables: paper, cardboard, wood scraps
• fabric and ribbons
• pots and pans

For ideas on other loose parts you can gather, browse:

• Materials for Loose Parts Play – At Least 100 Ideas!
• Outdoor Loose Parts: 5 Materials to Spark Imagination and Curiosity
• Using Loose Parts for Free Play

Learn more about loose parts play

Find out more about loose parts play online at:

• Exploring Loose Parts Play at Home
• The Learning in Loose Parts
• Loose Parts: Inspiring Play in Young Children
• Loose Parts: What does this mean?
• Loose Parts Play: A Toolkit (Second edition)
• Using Open Ended Materials in Outdoor Play

For more in-depth learning, contact the Decoda Literacy Library for books on loose parts play.