Loose Parts | EYFS

EYFS definition

In early years practice, loose parts are movable materials that children can arrange, combine and use in different ways. They may be natural or manufactured, large or small, and can support exploration, construction and imaginative play within EYFS provision.

What makes something a loose part?

The emphasis is on what children can do with a material. A sturdy box could become a container, a seat for a toy or part of a building. Its meaning may change during play.

The idea is associated with Simon Nicholson’s theory of loose parts. In everyday early years use, the term commonly describes materials children can move and recombine.

What might it look like in practice?

  • Combining blocks and fabric to make different places for small-world characters.
  • Arranging suitable natural materials into a pattern, then changing the arrangement.
  • Moving large, manageable containers to build a pretend vehicle outdoors.

Children may explore the materials alone or together. A finished model is one possible outcome, rather than the only purpose.

How are materials and support chosen?

Adults select and check materials for the children using them, considering size, condition, weight and how they may be handled. Small parts are unsuitable where children may put them in their mouths; supervision does not make an unsuitable item safe.

Adults can introduce materials, help with a practical difficulty or join a conversation while leaving room for children’s ideas.

Further Guidance | Related Documents

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Useful routes into practice

  • Outdoor provision

    Explore larger-scale play and opportunities to combine materials outside.

  • Art & craft

    Find further starting points for exploring and combining materials.

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