Using Loose Parts Effectively: A Practical Guide for Early Years Educators
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
Welcome to a new episode of Eyes On Us, where Emma and Sophie get into one of the most talked-about topics in early years — loose parts play.
We've all seen the stunning setups on Pinterest. Perfectly arranged pinecones, beautiful collections of shells and driftwood, colour-coordinated treasures laid out just so. But walk into a real nursery on a Tuesday morning and it can look a little… different. Bits everywhere, things going in mouths, children ignoring the setup entirely.
Sound familiar?
What Are Loose Parts and Why Do They Matter?
From natural materials to everyday household objects, loose parts are open-ended resources with no fixed purpose — and that's exactly what makes them so powerful. This episode unpacks why they give children something that most conventional toys simply can't.
When It's Not Going to Plan
This episode doesn't shy away from the real challenges. What's actually happening when play seems to be going wrong — and why the answer might surprise you. Plus, why the most beautiful setups are sometimes the least effective ones.
Making It Meaningful
What needs to shift — in how we set up, how we show up, and how we think about our role when children are deep in child-led play.
Talking to Parents and Staff
Not everyone immediately sees the value in yogurt pots and sticks. This episode covers how to confidently explain what's really happening when children engage with loose parts — and why the learning taking place is far richer than it might look.