The term “loose parts” refers to materials that are often used in open-ended play. These materials are meant to be easily transported by children and be used in multiple settings. Loose parts can be combined with other materials or used alone. Today the teachers set out plastic caps for mailing tubes to be used with foam blocks outside. Some children decided to use the blocks for stacking, while others combined the two and created a structure as pictured. Through this self-directed exercise, the children were able to practice their fine motor skills by placing the caps to cover the holes. In addition, pre-math skills such as one-to-one correspondence were also introduced through the use of these loose parts. As children observe each other, they imitate and learn from each other. They figured out how to share space and materials with each other.
To learn more about loose parts you can go to http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/staff-workshop-teacher-handout-quotwhysquot-have-it-why-include-loose-parts-playground-0 or check out our facebook posting https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Child-Development-Center-at-MiraCosta-College/213823248677493 to see how the other classrooms use loose parts to enhance the children’s play.
Here is the planning sheet for next week: