publications
The term Loose Parts was coined in 1971 by British architect, Simon Nicholson. He believed that everyone has potential to be creative and inventive when given open-ended materials and opportunity to experiment, discover, and form new concepts. His work influenced a collaboration which inspired three books about Loose Parts and how they support education. Get inspired from the books and start incorporating the philosophy into your learning spaces and home!
Loose Parts: Inspiring Play in Young Children
The first in the Loose Parts series, this book introduces readers to benefits of Loose Parts and offers visual inspiration for incorporating Loose Parts into early childhood environments. This book is recommended for educators of and adults with children ages 3-8 years old.
Loose Parts 2: Inspiring Play with Infants & Toddlers
The second Loose Parts book focuses on how to infuse and use these materials with infants and toddlers. A special focus on the needs and development of infants and toddlers demonstrates how Loose Parts support positive development across all domains.
Loose Parts 3: Inspiring Culturally Sustainable Environments
This Loose Parts book examines how to respectfully incorporate children and families' identities and values into learning spaces. By adding such materials, children and families feel valued, respected and appreciated. Additionally, children thrive when they interact with authentic materials that celebrate who they are.
Loose Parts 4: Inspiring 21st Century Learning
The last Loose Parts book in this series focuses on family engagement and competency building. This work explores competencies and life skills children need for success in the future: knowingness, engagement, risk, connections, leadership, innovative thinking, and creativity. This is an excellent read for parents and caregivers!