ABSTRACT
This chapter refers loose parts to movable equipment and junk and recycled materials. The most obvious examples of areas with a heavy use of small loose parts are sandpits, digging patches and water. These are the areas where finding a flower on a toy bulldozer, mud castles on the edge of a watercourse, and tunnels under a sandcastle. When this approach taken throughout the playground, children receives a rich and rewarding outcome through an environment filled with exciting and sustained play opportunities. The play potential of junk material is unlimited, but what is required is the imaginative, innovative ideas and persistence of a discerning teacher. Safety is a key factor in selection. The adventurous use of recycled materials requires an observant and supportive teacher who encourages and explains usage to children and assists with comprehension of risk when needed. Child accessible storage sheds designed for 3- to 5-year-olds to help them select, set up and put away equipment.
