Loose parts and natural resources..

The Magic of Loose Parts and Natural Resources in Nursery 

At Yewlands Day Nursery, we believe that children are naturally curious, imaginative, and eager to explore the world around them. That’s why we embrace loose parts play and natural resources as key elements in our learning environment.

Unlike traditional toys with fixed purposes, loose parts—such as wooden spools, shells, pinecones, and fabric scraps—allow children to use their imagination, develop problem-solving skills, and create their own unique ways to play. But what exactly are loose parts, and why are they so beneficial for early childhood development?

Let’s dive into the magic of open-ended, natural play!

What Are Loose Parts?

Loose parts are open-ended materials that children can move, arrange, and combine in different ways. These items don’t have a set function, meaning children can use them however they choose.

Some examples of loose parts include:

Natural materials – Pinecones, sticks, shells, pebbles, dried leaves

Wooden objects – Blocks, rings, pegs, spools

Fabric & textures – Scarves, ribbons, hessian sacks, wool

Household & upcycled items – Pots, lids, corks, cardboard tubes, buttons

These materials spark creativity, allowing children to build, sort, stack, and create without limits. One day, a wooden ring might be a steering wheel; the next, it could be a bracelet, a tunnel for a toy car, or part of a castle tower!

Why Are Loose Parts & Natural Resources So Beneficial?

Encourages Creativity & Imagination

Loose parts don’t come with instructions—children decide how to use them! This boosts creativity, as they can invent their own games, structures, and stories.

Develops Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking Skills

When children explore loose parts, they naturally experiment and test ideas. “What happens if I stack these?” “How can I balance this?” This trial-and-error process strengthens problem-solving skills.

Supports Fine & Gross Motor Development

Manipulating small objects like pebbles and buttons improves fine motor skills (important for writing and self-care tasks). Larger loose parts, like wooden planks or crates, support gross motor development, helping with coordination and strength.

Encourages Social Skills & Collaboration

Loose parts play often becomes a shared experience, with children working together to build, role-play, and negotiate ideas—essential skills for communication and teamwork.

Fosters a Connection with Nature

Using natural resources helps children develop an appreciation for the environment. Collecting sticks, leaves, and stones during outdoor play also teaches respect for nature and sustainability.

Loose Parts Play at Yewlands Day Nursery

At Yewlands, we incorporate loose parts and natural materials into daily activities.

You’ll find:

Nature-inspired play areas with wooden objects, stones, and natural textures

Tinkering stations where children can combine materials and build their own creations

Outdoor exploration with found objects, mud kitchens, and sensory trays

Storytelling corners with fabric, wooden figures, and natural props to enhance imaginative play

Rather than telling children how to play, our practitioners observe, support, and encourage open-ended exploration, allowing each child’s creativity to flourish.

How Can You Use Loose Parts at Home?

Loose parts play isn’t just for nursery—you can introduce it at home too! You don’t need expensive resources; simple, everyday objects work just as well.

Create a ‘Loose Parts Box’ – Fill a basket with wooden pegs, ribbons, bottle tops, and fabric for free play.

Go on a Nature Walk – Collect leaves, twigs, and stones for sorting and building.

Save Household Items – Empty boxes, corks, and kitchen utensils can inspire all kinds of creative play.

Encourage Open-Ended Art – Let children create with natural materials instead of traditional craft kits.

Most importantly—let your child take the lead! There’s no right or wrong way to play with loose parts.

Final Thoughts

Loose parts and natural resources spark curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity in ways that plastic toys simply can’t. By providing open-ended materials, we empower children to think independently, explore freely, and learn through discovery.

At Yewlands Day Nursery, we are passionate about creating environments where children’s imaginations can run wild. Whether they’re building towers from wooden blocks, creating patterns with shells, or making potions with leaves and water, the possibilities are endless!