There’s a refreshed set of cards in our range… exploring the magic of loose parts and what they mean for children’s play, environments, programs and practice.
WHY DID WE CREATE THESE CARDS?
Our Inspiration and Discussion Card sets have become a very popular resource for services, due to their high visual appeal and their simple, informative format that encourages reflection and discussion between educators.
Loose parts – from pinecones and shells to pipes, fabric, tyres and more – invite children to move, combine, redesign and invent in deeply creative ways. They support problem solving, risk-taking, collaboration, communication and imagination, across all age groups and settings.
This set explores the concept of Loving Loose Parts: why loose parts matter, how they support children’s learning, and the practical decisions educators make about sourcing, presenting, storing and documenting them. We have created these cards to inspire discussion, thought and reflection, and to help educators build confidence when advocating for loose parts play.
Each card provides information, reflective prompts and beautiful, updated photographs of real children engaging with loose parts.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH THEM?
We’ve visited services who have hung theirs on a hook in the room, or in the staff room. You could also:
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Make them available in your programming/documentation area
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Work through one card at each team meeting – use them to spark discussion within the team
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Use them as a conversation starter with families about the value of loose parts
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Keep them handy when setting up or reviewing loose parts invitations indoors and outdoors
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Pair them with our Loose Parts Poster and Loving Loose Parts mini course for a deeper team focus on loose parts play
WHAT ARE THE SPECIFICS?
You will receive a set of 9, high quality, full colour, gloss cards (approx. 15 cm x 13 cm) which are ring bound for durability and ease of use. Each card is double-sided, with key information, prompts and imagery designed to support quick reflection and conversation.
CONTENTS
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Loving Loose Parts
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Loose Parts Theory
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Benefits of loose parts play
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Loose parts indoors
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Loose parts outdoors
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Storing loose parts
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Presenting loose parts
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Sourcing loose parts
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Documenting loose parts play
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Loose parts ideas list – a generous list of loose parts to get you started
HOW ARE THEY SUSTAINABLE?
Printed locally in Newcastle, NSW
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Quality, durable materials designed to last
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Packed in recycled, reusable, or sustainable packaging (think “ugly boxes”, hex wrap and compostable satchels)