Loose Parts
We can ensure that materials that can be recycled are done so at an appropriate recycling point.
Some ways that we can reduce, reuse and recycle are:
- Collecting and utilising loose parts for play wherever possible
- Ensuring we turn lights off when they are not needed
- Ensuring we do not leave taps running unnecessarily
- Ensuring that children are given appropriate portions of food to reduce unnecessary food waste
- Not suing food for play unless absolutely necessary
- Buying locally wherever possible to reduce our carbon footprint
- Not wasting paper – for example, reusing scrap paper, not overusing hand towels
- Utilising rainwater to water plants
- Thinking twice about buying non-recyclable products such as water bottles, items with unnecessary packaging, and plastic toys
- Having a clothes swap drop-off point for parents to share clothes that children have grown out of
- Having a book swap drop-off point for both staff and parents to share books that they have read
By teaching children to do all of the above, we are instilling in them life lessons that will ensure they grow up to become environmentally conscious citizens.
Examples of Loose Parts Resources:

Sticks
Wood
Material

Wooden Pegs
Cones
Shells

Conkers
Gravel
Cable Reels

Bottle Tops
Cardboard Tubes
Decorative Spoons

Large Buttons
Curtain Hoops
Glass Nuggets

Boxes
Logs
Corks

Pebbles
Crates
Picture Frames

Keys
Pipes
Lolly Sticks