Project: The Garden Project

Sub-Project: Squash-Loose-Parts

Description: First proposed n the 1970’s by architect Simon Nicholson, loose parts are materials that can be moved, carried, combined, redesigned, lined up, and taken apart and put back together in multiple ways. They are materials with no specific set of directions that can be used alone or combined with other materials. The reason we like them so much is because they develop creativity in young children.

Loose parts can be natural or synthetic although we favor natural materials. In this picture we used a dried and hallow squash, although you can use: stones, stumps, sand, twigs, wood, logs, rope, shells and seeds.

Collaborative Project: Watching children play with loose parts is fascinating as they can find all sorts of creative ways to use their materials that we wouldn’t even think of. Find other loose parts and compare notes with another classroom. Which was the most original material that was found? Which was the most original use or construction made with the loose parts? Take a picture and share it with the other classroom!

Learning Objective: Develops creativity

Time frame: All year

Collaboration Form