Open Ended Play Materials
They are able to do this because of the low stakes environment created by open ended play.
Open ended play materials. There is no right or wrong way to engage in open ended play. The trap and gap s unique design allows children to create multi level buildings with trap doors and ramps. These toys are gender neutral timeless and free of commercial branding. Open ended materials provide multiple uses and endless play.
It s more about having children use the materials that are there to be creative experiment and invent when you have the kids pick the materials or themes themselves often they will be more invested in playing. The same toy can be used in multiple ways and the way they use it will change as they grow. So loose parts play is really nothing new at all. Children can create parking garages for their toy cars or trap.
Sticks for example have been used in a variety of different ways by children for centuries from swords and bows and arrows to den building materials and imaginary food. Providing open ended play materials allows children the opportunity to be curious creative and direct their own play. There is a popular theory called loose parts was developed by simon nicholson in 1971. As children communicate with one another in open ended play they learn how to read social cues and respond appropriately.
It enables children to be creative and express themselves in play often using materials to explore and represent other things. Kids can play independently without instructions or guidance by parents. Open ended play has no set rules or expectations. Loose parts feature largely in open ended play and provide the open ended resources required to provide challenge to children.
There are no rules or expectations for how a play item must be used no specific steps to follow no right or wrong way no ultimate goal to reach or achieve. There is no pressure to complete an end product or bound by limitations. Children explore a range of emotions through pretend play. Play advocates often talk about the importance of open ended play open ended play materials and having play be child led instead of adult led.