Loose Parts Alive: Inspiring Child-Led Nature Explorations

Unleash the Magic of Nature’s Playthings
Imagine a learning space infused with life, where curiosity thrives and imaginations bloom. Loose Parts Alive invites you to unlock the extraordinary potential of living loose parts: plants, animals, and even your bodies!
Beyond blocks and buttons, discover how:

• the movements of a fish can spark STEM explorations.
• sun-soaked leaves can inspire vibrant artwork and investigations of light and shadow.
• a caterpillar’s metamorphosis can nurture wonder and language.

This transformative guide, grounded in developmentally appropriate practice, Reggio Emilia’s child-led explorations, Montessori’s hands-on learning, and reverence for nature, empowers you to:

• integrate living loose parts seamlessly and confidently.
• embrace open-ended play, fostering critical thinking and creativity.
• nurture a deep connection with nature in children.
• witness the joy of child-led discovery unfolding organically.

Filled with field-tested activities and inspiring examples, practical tips, and stunning photography showcasing real-life implementation, Loose Parts Alive is an invitation to step outside the ordinary, embrace the boundless wonder of nature, and witness the magic of learning.
Are you ready to ignite the spark?

Carla Gull, EdD, is coordinator of the masters of arts in environmental education program and associate professor of sustainability and environmental education at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College, Goshen, IN. She is the host of the Loose Parts Nature Play podcast and Loose Parts Play Facebook group. Laura Wilhelm, EdD, is the vice president for professional learning at Kaplan Early Learning Company. She brings 40+ years’ experience as an early childhood educator and professor to her work. She is the past president and board member of Oklahoma Association of Environmental Educators and a volunteer and facilitator trainer for Growing Up Wild.