Loose Parts Nature Play

Megan Gessler Sep 28, 2024

Nature-based Early Childhood Assessment & Guidebook

Midwest Early Childhood Educator Conference—Oct 26, 2024

Consulting Services

gesslermegan@gmail.com

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Natural Start Alliance Conference Sep 04, 2024

Join me in a recap of the Natural Start Alliance Conference! Unfortunately, we lost a few voices from the field due to technical issues, but I am grateful for ALL that contributed—I enjoyed getting to know you! There are so many doing great work to help connect children and nature!

Natural Start Alliance

Natural Start Alliance Conference

Outdoor Learning School and Store

Outdoor Early Learning Alliance of Oregon

Down to Earth Forest School

Nature Play Sign

Nature-based Early Childhood Program Assessment and Guidebook

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

The Loose Parts Police: Can we buy loose parts? Aug 11, 2024

Loose Parts Play Group discussion on the topic

Kara Ketter Autistic Educator

April’s Teaching Tree—NOW Nature Inspired Teacher

Umbrella House

Autumn Treasure Idea

Community Plaything’s Outlast Blocks

Loose Parts STEM Kits from Kaplan

Loose Parts Stackable Tray Poly+ from Kaplan

Loose Parts Wooden Stacking Trays from Kaplan

Loose Parts Sorting Trays from Kaplan

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Listen to voices from the US Play Coalition Conference! Apr 30, 2024

Embracing Fire as a Loose Part

OutsidePlay.org—great tool with examples!

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Nüdel Pod with Marcus Veerman Mar 11, 2024

Learn more about an exciting new product that turns your child from the toy user to the toy maker in this conversation with Marcus Veerman from Nüdel Pod.

Nüdel Pod Kickstarter campaign

Nüdel Kart website

My previous podcast episode with Marcus

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Treasure Baskets with Dr. Laura Wilhelm Jan 31, 2024

Book: Treasure Basket Explorations

https://amzn.to/48OZsEw

Podcast Episode on Treasure Baskets

https://amzn.to/48OZsEw

Basket Options:

12” by 8” by 5” rope basket

Hyacinth Storage Basket

Round Woven Basket

Rattan Serving Tray

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Loose Parts Voices from NAEYC! Dec 12, 2023

I brought a RØDE Reporter microphone to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) conference and asked people about loose parts! They could share anything they wanted—a thought, a tip, a frustration, a product, etc. It was so great to see and meet all of you! Check it out! I’ve tried to link what I can below.

Hear voices from the following (and more!):

Kaplan Early Learning—Check out the Loose Parts STEM kits I was part of designing! 

Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center (check out our Master of Arts in Environmental Education—I direct this!)

Easter Seals Child Developmental Learning Center, Washington, DC

Orange Public Schools, NJ

Eastern Connecticut State University—Child and Family Development Resource Center, lab school

Tacoma PBS Public Television System

Nurtured Inspirations

Arkansas Department of Education

Pacific Primary, San Francisco, CA

Inspire to Impact Consulting, FL

Indian River State College, FL

CTAEYC Board

Bloomsburg University, PA

Interaction Imagination

Institute for Self-Active Education

Dr. Drew’s Discovery Blocks

Kinderoo Children’s Academy

FLAEYC Play Chapter

The Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL

That Early Childhood Nerd

Ivy Tech Community College—brown paper bag

Ooey Gooey Inc.

Earth Friends

Cambridge-Ellis School

Cosy Direct

Scholar’s Choice—Tuff Trays

Tinkergarten

Bright Beginnings by Flash Furniture

Becker’s

Kodo Kids

Developing Minds

South Carolina Resource and Referral

Rise Center, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa

Discount School Supply

Super Space

Percussion Play

Dimensions Education Programs, Lincoln, Nebraska

Nature Explore

Community Playthings

Constructive Playthings

Amazing Sensory Designs

First Lutheran Preschool, Ellicott City, Maryland

Childcare Resource and Referral, Tennessee

Jurassic Sands

Red Leaf Press

STRIVE Early Education Services

Little Minds Learning Academy, Michigan

Defending the Early Years

Samara Early Learning

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Loose Parts in Action with Lisa Daly Nov 22, 2023

20% off with code LPIA23 until November 30th, 2023.

Find the book at Redleaf Press: https://www.redleafpress.org/Loose-Parts-in-Action-The-Essential-How-To-Guide-P2795.aspx

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Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Setting Up an Inviting Space with Little Barn Owls Nov 03, 2023

Facebook Post—we chatted about this!

Facebook

Website

Instagram pages:

@lbo_charlotteb

@littlebarnowls

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Stonework Play with Diana Suskind Oct 20, 2023

November 3rd—International Stonework Play Day!

Stonework Play website (Diana’s website and link to her book)

International Stonework Play guide

Stonework Play Facebook group

Stonework Play Facebook page

Rocks/Stone Book List by Carla

International Stonework Play podcast past episode with Carla

Social Emotional Learning and Loose Parts podcast episode

Deconstructive Play resources

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Enjoy this conversation with Juliet Robertson from Scotland! Oct 02, 2023

How not to cheat children: The theory of loose parts

Messy Maths

Dirty Teaching

Creative Star Learning—Juliet’s website! A treasure trove of information!

Loose Parts Play Toolkit from Inspiring Scotland

Outdoor Learning and Play Facebook group

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Embracing Fire as a Loose Part Sep 05, 2023

Fascination of Fire Journal by Claire Warden

Handout (with additional links) on Loose Parts Nature Play

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Beyond Ecophobia Jul 25, 2023

Beyond Ecophobia by David Sobel

ICAN Webinar about Beyond Ecophobia

Magazine Article

Here is a pdf of a synopsis of the article

Look! Don’t Touch! Orion Magazine

Living Loose Parts Resources

Connecting Children to Animals Podcast episode

Worms, Glorious Worms Podcast episode

Animal Homes Podcast episode

Animal Architects Podcast episode

Squirrel Appreciation Podcast episode

Eggs & Nests Podcast episode

Animals in Winter Podcast episode

Animal Play

Loose Parts Nature Play Kits

Adding Plants to an Outdoor Classroom Podcast Episode

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Nature is Naturally Inclusive Jul 05, 2023

“Plants remind us to move in nature time” –Ruth Wilson

Naturally Inclusive by Ruth Wilson

Gryphon House

Amazon

Children & Nature Network—Connecting Children of All Abilities to Nature Play and Therapeutic Gardens

“Nature doesn’t discriminate, it doesn’t make judgments. Rain falls on every child.” —Ruth Wilson, author and Children & Nature Network research library curator

Essential Reading List

Research Digest-- Nature’s benefits for children with special needs

PlayGarden Toolkit

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Worms, Glorious Worms! May 31, 2023

Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College

International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education

Natural Start Alliance

Books:

An Earthworm’s Life by John Himmelman

Carl and the Meaning of Life by Deborah Freedman

Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth by Mary McKenna Siddals

Darwin’s Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular by Polly Owen

Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin

Hello, Garden Bugs: A High Contrast Book by duopress labs

How to Say Hello to a Worm: A First Guide to Outside by Kari Percival

The Worm: The Disgusting Critters Series by Elise Gravel

This is a Book to Read with a Worm by Jodi Wheeler-Toppen

We Dig Worms by Kevin McClosky

Wiggling Worms at Work by Wendy Pfeffer

Worm Weather by Jean Taft

Yucky Worms by Vivian French

The Worm Project by Illinois Early Learning Project

https://illinoisearlylearning.org/pa/projects/worm-project/

The Worms are Dancing by Alissa Lange, Lynn Lodien, and Anna Lowe in Science & Children

https://www.ecstemlab.com/uploads/4/0/3/5/40359017/langelodienlowe.pdf

Growing Up Wild—Wriggling Worms by Project Wild

https://www.fishwildlife.org/projectwild/growing-wild/resources/wiggling-worms

Earthworm Digging Activity for Kids by Tinkergarten

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/friends-in-low-places

The Adventures of Herman by University of Illinois Extension

https://web.extension.illinois.edu/worms/

Invasive Worms—Asian Jumping Worm https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/terrestrial/invertebrates/asian-jumping-worm

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Celebrating Special Days with a Loose Parts Mindset Apr 20, 2023

Celebrating Special Days with a Loose Parts Mindset—link to the Exchange Article

Additional related podcast episodes:

Natural and Loose Parts Valentines

Autumn Treasures

Fall Fun!

Ice as a Loose Part

International Stonework Play Day

Global School Play Day

Cardboard as a Loose Part

International Mud Day

Rube Goldberg Machines

Loose Parts Inspired Books—list of related books

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Getting Comfortable with Risky Play Mar 13, 2023

Indiana Children and Nature Network Webinar Recordings

Types of Risky Play—Sandseter

What to Say Instead of Be Careful—Backwoods Mamma

When You Want to Say Be Careful—Child & Nature Alliance of Canada

Busting the Myth that We Have to Bubble Wrap Our Kids

Adventures in Risky Play—Rusty Keeler

Thank you, Dr. Joanna Spotts!

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

When You Wonder, You’re Learning: Meet the Authors Feb 01, 2023

Book: When You Wonder, You’re Learning: Mister Rogers’ Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids by Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski

LPNP Podcast Episode—my reaction to the book

Remake Learning

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

The Fred Rogers Archives

Primanti Bros. Sandwiches

How Not to Cheat Children: The Theory of Loose Parts by Simon Nicholson

A special thanks to SLB Radio for audio help!

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

When You Wonder, You're Learning Jan 12, 2023

Book: When You Wonder, You’re Learning: Mister Rogers’ Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids by Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski

Pictures from the Pittsburgh Trip!

The Mattress Factory

Pittsburgh Children’s Museum

SLB Radio

Museum Lab

Carnegie Science Center

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Sense of Wonder Dec 23, 2022

Indiana Children and Nature Network

ICAN Play 30 and Seasonal Book Chat

Book Pick: The Sense of Wonder by Rachel Carson

“For most of us, knowledge of our world comes largely through sight, yet we look about with such unseeing eyes that we are partially blind. One way to open your eyes to unnoticed beauty is to ask yourself, "What if I had never seen this before? What if I knew I would never see it again?” ― Rachel Carson

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” ― Rachel Carson

“It is not half so important to know as to feel.” ― Rachel Carson

“The years of early childhood are the time to prepare the soil. Once the emotions have been aroused - a sense of the beautiful, the excitement of the new and unknown, a feeling of sympathy, pity, admiration or love - then we wish for knowledge about the object of our emotional response. Once found, it has lasting meaning.” ― Rachel Carson

“Many children... delight in the small and inconspicuous.” ― Rachel Carson

“It is more important to pave the way for the child to want to know than to put him on a diet of facts he is not ready to assimilate.” ― Rachel Carson

“The lasting pleasures of contact with the natural world are not reserved for scientists but are available to anyone who will place himself under the influence of earth, sea, and sky and their amazing life.” ― Rachel Carson

“If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder … he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in.” —Rachel Carson

Discussion Questions:

What is a sense of wonder?

How do we regain the sense of wonder in ourselves?

How do we share the sense of wonder with our children?

How can we share and rediscover the sense of joy and wonder with children?

What other resources help you with wonder?

What’s the difference between wonder and curiosity?

If you want to witness a natural display of a sense of wonder, just observe a child. A child’s whole world is viewed through the eyes of wonder and excitement. A child has no judgements of why things are so, but rather a child is in awe of life and views life through innocence, purity and curiosity. –Mary Paleologos

Join us!

THURSDAY, MARCH 2, 2023

8 PM – 9 PM, Eastern Time

Spring ICAN Play 30 and Balanced and Barefoot Book Chat

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Creativity, Playground Ideas, and Nudelkart Nov 07, 2022

Join Marcus Veerman to discuss loose parts and the Nudelkart!

Nudelkart

Resources and Manuals

Playgroundideas.org

Theory of Loose Parts: How Not to Cheat Children

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Cultivating Confidence: An Interview with Ronnie Green Oct 18, 2022

Listen to Ronnie Green share about dealing with behaviors around loose parts. Find her at:

Cultivating Confidence: Early Years Consultancy

Additional resources shared in this episode:

Michelle Thornhill Schema and Loose Parts

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Getting Outside with Tweens and Teens Sep 30, 2022

Why Get Outside with Tweens and Teens

Less screen time
Physically active
Mental health
Decreased stress
Experience awe and wonder
Healing power of nature
Skill building
Career exploration

Challenges and Opportunities

More reliance on technology
Seeking more independence
Often more influenced by peers
Developing identity
Expanding independence

Tips for Getting Outside

Increase adventure
Bring along friends
Let them plan
Involve food!
Family traditions
Follow their interests
Connect with groups
Include technology
Find ways to serve!
Consider safety

Indiana Master Naturalists

The STEM Connection

Citizen Scientist Projects for Teens

Indiana Children and Nature Network—Tweens and Teens 3 webinars available!

Part 1--The STEM Connection and Indiana Master Naturalists Part 2--Joe Pounds and Authentic Engagement Part 3--Tips and Resources with Dr. Carla Gull from ICAN

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: https://loosepartsnatureplay.org/

Social Emotional Learning and Loose Parts Aug 25, 2022

Get to know our own emotions—Atlas of the Heart, Brene Brown, on HBO Max
Recognize inherent aspect of loose parts to allow children to work out issues and meet needs.
Specific “kit” around SEL topics—emotions, faces, etc.
Include books around SEL in other kits, such as I’m Done in a beaver kit, Let’s Make Faces by Hanoch Piven and How are you peeling? in an emotions kit, Be a Tree in a tree kit or just on its own (see book list below).
Create a “calm down” kit.
Include lots of options for interacting with animals and dramatic play—puppets, costumes, fabrics, stuffed animals, plastic animals, etc.
Tinkergarten—lots of videos, blogs, and other resources
SEL theory

Loose Parts Nature Play Kits Podcast Episode

Loose Parts Nature Play SEL Kits Handout

Deconstructive Play Handout

Nature/Loose Parts Connected SEL Book Suggestions from Megan Gessler

*Some of Carla’s favorite books for Loose Parts that were on Megan’s list

Developing Kinship and Empathy

Growth Mindset

Becoming Agents of Change

*Ada Twist, Scientist

*Rosie Revere, Engineer

You are a Beautiful Beginning

The Thing Lou Couldn’t Do

Say Something

I am Courage

I am One

*The Most Magnificent Thing

*What Do you do with an Idea? Chance? Problem?

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Junior Ranger Program in Kenai Fjords Aug 07, 2022

The Nature Pyramid

Experience Nature:

Find a place in the park (or nature) that speaks to you. Close your eyes. Focus on the feeling of the air . . . the sounds and scents around you. When you open your eyes, notice the small details—a drop of dew, light, and shadows. Describe your experience for someone who has never been here—what did you feel, hear, smell, and see . . . Was there something you could taste? (Amy Ireland, for Kenai Fjords National Park Explorer Journal)

Also, it’s a mountain goat on the Explorer pin, not a bison! (though I did see a bison at another place)

Bonus Quote (not on the podcast episode, but in the booklet):

“What we do not see, what we do not hear, what we do not touch, we can never really know.” St. Lawrence Island Yupik Elder

National Parks Service Jr. Ranger Program

Kenai Fjord National Parks Jr. Ranger Program (They even have an app!)

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Getting Started with Loose Parts Jul 04, 2022

Getting Started with Loose Parts

Recognize it is already happening!
Play! Start playing with some items and see how else they may be used.
Start with what you have
Classroom Sort/Beautiful Stuff Project
Let go of the control and let it happen
Start with a book or prompt then get out of the way—already had some in the classroom—yes!
Study the children/Invitations/Loose Parts Starts
Involve CHILDREN!
Study and READ (and LISTEN) about loose parts! Exchange articles, professional development books, etc.
Network—Loose Parts Play group!
What 3 things will you do in the next few weeks? Report back!

Podcast episodes to Help:

Hesitant Children—Kids Aren’t Playing

30 + Approaches to Loose Parts

7 Loose Parts Myths Exchange Article

Rethinking Loose Parts: Four Key Principles Beyond the Stuff Exchange Article

Finding Loose Parts

Autumn Treasures

Blog Posts

Professional Development Books

Read aloud loose parts books

Video from Gryphon House—junk jar, STEM bins, kits--measurement

Professional Development Opportunities with Me!

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Loose Parts Nature Play Kits: Something for Everyone! Jun 24, 2022

Why Have Kits?

Grab and go

Organized materials

Find your stuff

Versatile

Accessible for more people

How to use: storytime, grab one for a hike, follow children’s interests, family days, check out at your center, send home kits, children’s free choice, rotate

Types of Kits:

Book extensions: Not a Stick, Mama Built a Little Nest, An Egg is Quiet, A Nest is Noisy

Animal focus: Woodpecker’s Wham, squirrels, beaver, insects, bird nests, spiders

Building: wooden blocks, mini bricks, cardboard tools

Play: stick play, mud kitchen, music and movement, water play, dramatic play, fort play

Natural phenomena: wind, natural loose parts, sound, gardening, senses

Art: nature play dough, watercolors or painting, paper, small loose parts, chalk, ephemeral art

General outdoor tools: tweezers, magnifying glasses, binoculars, twine, buckets, etc.

Academic/curricular: measuring, stonework play (literacy), numeracy, map making, animal architects, faces/emotions, shapes

What to Include: books, pictures, tools, “sparks” or ideas for play, puppets, materials, interesting combinations, natural items

Type of Bags/Containers: clear plastic bags, muslin drawstring backpacks, backpacks, reusable grocery totes, IKEA bags, crates, baskets, dishpans, wagon

Labels: stencils, laminated tags/pictures, fabric labels, numbered system, have children decorate, wooden laser engraved labels

Storage: hooks on a wall at child height, cart, rod with s hooks, large tubs, cubbies, outdoor shed

Funding: grants, use what you have, donations, special fundraiser, collect nature, garage sales

Tips:

Supplement with nature found outside—use your space and nature!
Keep an Inventory/Master List to find your materials
Consider a checkout system for families
Regularly purge and evaluate bags and materials
Allow children to choose what kits to take outside each day
Use a materials list for each bag to visually help keep everything together
Group connected items together
Involve children in creating kits customized for their play!

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Nest Building Time May 04, 2022

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Stick Play! Apr 08, 2022

Chelsea Forest School Stick Play

http://www.chelseaforestschool.ca/index.php/en/risk-assessments/

Patrick Dougherty

http://www.stickwork.net/featured

Backwoods Mama: What to Say Instead of Be Careful

https://www.backwoodsmama.com/2018/02/stop-telling-kids-be-careful-and-what-to-say-instead.html

Boston Outdoor Preschool Network

https://www.bopn.org/post/the-importance-of-stick-play

Weapon Play

https://seecstories.com/2018/11/08/weapon-play-in-early-childhood-how-to-be-developmentally-appropriate-and-responsive-to-current-events/#:~:text=Weapon%20play%20is%20just%20one,were%20pretending%20to%20shoot%20things.

https://portland.momcollective.com/ages-stages/weapon-play/

Tinkergarten Stick Activities

Follow the Arrows: https://tinkergarten.com/activities/follow-arrows
Bundle of Sticks: https://tinkergarten.com/activities/pick-up-sticks
Pickup Sticks: https://tinkergarten.com/activities/pick-up-sticks
Build a Dam: https://tinkergarten.com/activities/build-a-dam
Build a Wall: https://tinkergarten.com/activities/great-wall
Go Fish: https://tinkergarten.com/activities/go-fish

Books:

Stickwork by Patrick Dougherty

https://amzn.to/3xjSEhY

Not a Stick

https://amzn.to/3DP2ji5

The Clever Stick

https://amzn.to/3KoibdR

A Stick Until

https://amzn.to/3Koog9Y

Twig

https://amzn.to/376BJEZ

Max Found Two Sticks

https://amzn.to/3r8WG92

Stick Man

https://amzn.to/3NSS5lf

The Stick by Clay Rice

https://amzn.to/35PYFYv

Stick! By Irene Dickson

https://amzn.to/3JlWB8c

Mattland (going to break stick)

https://amzn.to/3Jk0Ml9

A Stick is a Wonderful Thing—poem

https://amzn.to/3jfhwiH

The Stick Book: Loads of things you can make or do with a stick Schofield and danks

https://amzn.to/3JkIct2

6 Sticks By Molly Coxe

https://amzn.to/3Jl3k2g

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Rethinking Loose Parts: Four Key Principles Beyond the “Stuff” Mar 21, 2022

Exchange Article Link: https://bit.ly/264-Gull

Fire podcast episode: https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/fire-as-a-loose-part

Rethinking Nicholson’s Intent podcast episode: https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/rethinking-nicholsons-intent

Color Exploration podcast episode: https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/color-exploration

Book--Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

https://amzn.to/3u8UAqI

Roxaboxen: https://amzn.to/3qjTdEx

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Simple Machines Loose Parts Learning Lab Mar 01, 2022

Elementary STEM Con 2022

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms on Gryphon House

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms on Amazon

Simple Machines Outdoors Podcast Episode

Rolling into Physics: Ramp Investigations Podcast Episode

Simple Machines Options on Amazon

Book:

A Stick Until

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Light Exploration with Elementary Aged Children Feb 11, 2022

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms on Gryphon House

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms on Amazon

Light Painting Podcast Episode

Light and Reflection as a Loose Part Podcast Episode

Aff Links:

You Are the Light book

Prisms

White Umbrella

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Newer Nature Books Jan 13, 2022

Natural Start Alliance Holiday Book Fair

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

On Gryphon House

The Girl with the Big, Big Questions by Britney Winn Lee

Outside, You Notice by Erin Alladin

Reading Guide

What’s in Your Pocket? Collecting Nature’s Treasures by Heather Montgomery

Be a Tree by Maria Gianferrari

Wonder Walkers by Micha Archer

Many are affiliate links—thanks for helping me buy more books at no cost to you!

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/3jGVdmX

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

International Stonework Play Day Dec 17, 2021

November 3rd, but can be done anytime!

https://nurtureinnature.com.au/international-stonework-play-day/

Rocks as a Loose Part—Book list!

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2017/11/rocks-as-loose-part.html

A Savior is Born: Rocks Tell the Story of Christmas https://amzn.to/3GiIOOO

He is Risen: Rocks Tell the Story of Easter https://amzn.to/304tINw

Storytelling Campference—it was great!

https://lpnp--nurtureinnature.thrivecart.com/campference-all-access-package/615c66de557f5/

Holiday Book Fair with Natural Start Alliance—will have a free recording and list later

https://naturalstart.org/bright-ideas/holiday-book-fair-0

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/loose-parts-learning-in-k-3-classrooms

TikTok video on Stonework Play

https://www.facebook.com/carla.gull/videos/4836000479764746

What Can You Do with a Rock? By Pat Zietlow Miller, Illustrated by Kathie Kath

https://amzn.to/31wr1Vf

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/3jGVdmX

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Three Little Pigs Outdoor STEM Challenge Nov 16, 2021

When classes are studying fairytales, we take it outside to create our own shelters to protect the pigs from the wolf! Move beyond the straw, sticks, and bricks for student choice and voice in their building options. The larger space and outdoor environment give us plenty of room to build, additional opportunities (up in a tree!), and less mess for cleanup.

Loose Parts Nature Play: Architecture

Pictures of the Three Little Pigs Outdoor STEM Challenge

The Three Little Pigs: An Architectural Tale

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/3jGVdmX

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Autumn Treasures Oct 28, 2021

Leaf Man (aff links)

https://amzn.to/3ntc8dD

What’s in your Pocket? Collecting Nature’s Treasures

https://amzn.to/3jDnavF

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/3jGVdmX

Beautiful Stuff: Learning with Found Materials

https://amzn.to/3pQCqcq

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Connecting Our Children with Nature Aug 29, 2021

Why aren’t children connecting to nature?

http://www.nwf.org/Be-Out-There/Why-Be-Out-There.aspx

Why should children connect with nature?

Quotes http://www.childrennatureandyou.org/quotes.html

Join an online challenge or group

Seasonal photo challenges http://www.goexplorenature.com/2012/12/2013-winter-nature-photo-scavenger-hunt.html

Weekly topic challenges

http://handbookofnaturestudy.blogspot.com/

Outdoor family communities

http://www.childrenandnature.org/movement/naturalfamilies/

State Programs

DNR—Get Up and Go Outside

http://www.in.gov/dnr/kids/5991.htm

DNR Kids Page

http://www.in.gov/dnr/kids/5991.htm

Hoosier Outdoor Child

Indiana Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights

Patch Programs—challenge, encouragement

http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2418.htm

National Programs

National Parks—build them into vacations

http://www.nps.gov/index.htm

NP Webrangers

http://www.nps.gov/webrangers/

NP Junior Ranger Programs

http://www.nps.gov/learn/juniorranger.cfm

No Child Left Inside

http://www.eenc.org/index.php/in-the-news/no-child-left-inside

Websites

http://www.childrenandnature.org/

http://handbookofnaturestudy.blogspot.com/

Outdoor study challenges

www.goexplorenature.com

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Go Climb a Tree! Jul 28, 2021

Exchange Article Link:

https://bit.ly/260-Gull-Rosengarten-Goldstein

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/2UoE2ws

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Barriers to Getting Outside Jul 13, 2021

Share Tree Climbing Toolkit

Risk benefit

Consider your risk tolerance

What to Say Instead of Be Careful

July/Aug 2021 Commonly Asked Tree Climbing Questions in Exchange

Animal architects—build like the animals—podcast episode

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/2UoE2ws

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms Jun 25, 2021

Loose Parts Learning in K-3 Classrooms

https://amzn.to/2UoE2ws

Definitions of Loose Parts in Early Childhood Outdoor Classrooms: A Scoping Review

https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1225658.pdf

Nurture in Nature

https://nurtureinnature.com.au/

Nicholson’s Theory of Loose Parts

https://media.kaboom.org/docs/documents/pdf/ip/Imagination-Playground-Theory-of-Loose-Parts-Simon-Nicholson.pdf

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Animal Homes Jun 07, 2021

10 Amazing Animal Architects:

Types of Bird Nests:

http://people.eku.edu/ritchisong/birdnests.html

Animal Architects Podcast Episode:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/animal-architects

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Animal Architects May 06, 2021

Animal Architects

IJECEE Animal Architect Book Review:

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/8._book_and_resource_review_-_animal_architects.pdf

Architecture Podcast Episode:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/architecture

Connecting Children to Nature Podcast Episode:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/connecting-children-to-animals

Dreaming Up:

https://amzn.to/3eodzqE

I’m Done:

https://amzn.to/3tlTi9d

Mama Built a Little Nest:

https://amzn.to/3xPqg5l

We Build our Homes:

https://amzn.to/3xSh9Rc

A Nest is Noisy:

https://amzn.to/3xRmA2P

Animal Architects:

https://amzn.to/3tplisq

Roberto: The Insect Architect:

https://amzn.to/3vQDLjz

Seaver the Weaver:

https://amzn.to/3h5xi00

Connecting Animals and Children in Early Childhood:

https://amzn.to/3tnS65g

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Early Educators’ Perspectives on Tree Climbing Apr 30, 2021

Early Educators’ Perspectives on Tree Climbing

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/6._gull_et_al_0.pdf

Father’s Perspective on Tree Climbing

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/fathers-perspectives-on-tree-climbing

Tree Climbing

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/tree-climbing

What to Say to Kids Instead of Be Careful

https://www.backwoodsmama.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/What-to-Say-Instead-of-_Be-Careful_.pdf

Book Pick:

Adventures in Risky Play: What is your Yes?

https://amzn.to/3gPv5Wn

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Color Exploration Mar 15, 2021

Children usually prefer play that stimulates their curiosity and gives free rein to the imaginations and creativity. Incorporating loose parts into the environment will enhance their natural curiosity. –Lisa Daly and Miriam Beloglovsky

Tinkergarten Color Activities

Frozen colored water on white sheet

Chalks/water/paintbrushes on dark sheet and other options

Skittles and water

Natural egg dyeing

Milk, food coloring, dish soap

Shaving cream and food coloring

Colored ice, salt, pipettes https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/ice-as-a-loose-part

Clear cup and food coloring—wanted to put it on the overhead projector

Light and color

Blacklights

Light table—transparent colored fabrics, papers, etc. https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/light-painting

Tissue paper that bleeds colors https://amzn.to/2NWZxS7

Watercolors on snow or ice

Transparent colored dividers

Self serve jars of colored water (Umbrella House—Tammy Lockwood)

Paint in a plastic baggie

Colored water spraying on white sheet

Collage

Color wheel: create out of found items/collage

Color sets/sorting—Grapat

Natural color wheel with colors we find in nature

Lights/flashlights with colors

Paint Swatches

Pipettes coffee filters https://amzn.to/3sIlyCX https://amzn.to/3rbzVzu

Glue/salt

Marbling

Liquid water colors https://amzn.to/3bacUaE

Principles:

Allow experimentation. Get rid of the “recipe”.
Pause for observation, wonder, and awe.
Follow the child’s lead. I wonder if . . .
Ask children how they might extend and explore this more. What might they use next time? What other ways might they mix and explore colors?
Leave materials out, if possible, to allow for additional experimentation.
Document the experience with photos, journaling, and capturing the inquisitiveness.
Be open to color exploration in other aspects.
Let the learning emerge rather than telling how it should happen.

Japanese Suminagashi: https://amzn.to/2MLxhS8

Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment. –Claude Monet

I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way. –Georgia O’Keefe

Book Picks:

Mix It Up! https://amzn.to/2NWpzVB

Mixed: A colorful story https://amzn.to/3sJBTHK

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Teenagers and Loose Parts Feb 27, 2021

Those who do not think outside the box are easily contained. –Nicolas Manetta

Makerspace Classes—Trina Deboree

https://trina-deboree.mykajabi.com/msreg

Tips for Parents on Teenagers and Creativity:

https://www.scholastic.com/parents/family-life/creativity-and-critical-thinking/development-milestones/creative-development-adolescents.html

Light Painting

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/light-painting

Fire

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/fire-as-a-loose-part

Tinker Cart

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/tinker-carts

Rube Goldberg Machines

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/rube-goldberg-machines

Exploring Creativity and Loose Parts as Adults https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/exploring-creativity-and-loose-parts-as-adults

Book Pick:

Wreck this Journal by Keri Smith

https://amzn.to/3dhVv1e

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

52 Things Outside in Winter Feb 10, 2021

52 Things Outside in Winter:

https://52thingsoutside.org/winter/ Book Pick Snowflake Bentley: https://amzn.to/3rCXMbg

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

Winter Books Jan 29, 2021

Books on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/shop/loosepartsplay?listId=3JS6DYBFWMX0 Blog Post: https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2021/01/winter-wonderland-books.html IJECEE: https://naturalstart.org/research

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/LoosePartsPlay/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/ Loose Parts Nature Play Website: http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com

7 Loose Parts Myths Jan 22, 2021

Article: https://bit.ly/256BRAP Exchange: https://www.childcareexchange.com/

Definitions of Loose Parts in Early Childhood Outdoor Classrooms: A Scoping Review - https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/6._gull_et_al._formatted_draft_v2.pdf Loose Parts Nature Play Podcast - http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/

Loose Parts Play Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/ 30 Plus Approaches to Loose Parts Blog Post - http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2017/05/30-plus-ways-to-approach-loose-parts.html Approaches to Loose Parts Podcast Episode - http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/approaches-to-loose-parts-play Loose Parts and Intelligent Playthings Categorized by Schema - https://brucecounty.on.ca/sites/default/files/Loose%20Parts%20By%20Schema_0.pdf Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Math and Loose Parts in Nature Jan 13, 2021

Math and Loose Parts on Amazon

Book Pick:

Messy Maths

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Nature Poetry Nov 03, 2020

Special episode for the Environmental Education Association of Indiana’s Vision 2020 virtual conference!

http://eeai.org/2020-Conference

Listen to a special guest, Indiana Master Naturalist, Jim Carpenter, read his nature poetry. I was mesmerized! Hope it brings you back to dipping your toes in the water too!

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Simple Machines in Outdoor Classrooms Aug 19, 2020

Simple Machines Outdoors Podcast:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/simple-machines-outdoors

Rube Goldberg Machines Podcast Episode:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/rube-goldberg-machines

Ramp Investigations Podcast:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/rolling-into-physics-ramp-investigations

Natural Start Alliance Conference:

https://naturalstart.org/nature-based-early-learning-conference

Tinkergarten:

https://tinkergarten.com/activities

Books, Materials and Resources on Amazon

Book Pick:

Cultivating Outdoor Classrooms:

https://amzn.to/2FCaYKG

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Sit Spots Aug 06, 2020

Jean Lomino

https://forestteacher.org/

Building Observation Skills with Sit Spots

https://www.oraeyc.org/single-post/2017/12/11/Build-Childrens-Observation-Skills-with-Sit-Spots

Merry Lea NBECE Regional Network:

https://www.goshen.edu/merrylea/nature-based-early-childhood-education-regional-network/

Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Nature

https://amzn.to/2DF0Xev

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Minecraft IRL (In Real Life) Jul 23, 2020

Note the children’s interest.
Have children show/explain the interest.
Facilitate brainstorming for extension or IRL options.
Group/categorize ideas.
Make the ideas visual.
Do it! PLAY!
Celebrate and document!

Go Wild! 101 Things to Do Before you Grow Up

https://amzn.to/2WJgJf1

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Loose Parts Starts Jul 10, 2020

Find items mentioned at:

https://www.amazon.com/shop/loosepartsplay?listId=ZKLGAJ3PMEFW

Grab and go sets/STEM Bins

Individual sized containers

--small tackle boxes

--clear pencil boxes (back to school time)

--mesh bags

--individual plastic bags

--canvas bags when not under COVID issues

Fill the bins

--Break down larger sets

--Consider manipulatives

--use what you have

--rocks

--random stuff

--theme based

--small world items

--arts and craft products

--small cups

--dollar store craft items

--combination of materials

Rotate

--keep the same items with the same child over several days

--rotate out over 72 hours to lessen chance

Clean

--involve children in the cleaning process

--develop a process to do it quickly and efficiently

Store

--accessible

--cart

--at students’ desks

Extensions

--paper to sketch/write about what was done

--planning/report sheets

--writing extensions with space for drawing

--examples of art/design/buildings/structures

--reused and combined in many ways

--challenge and extend prompts

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Handwashing Options Jun 17, 2020

Handwashing Options from Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/shop/loosepartsplay?listId=3S3JLZKB1BQ13

Information and tips from Juliett Robertson:

https://creativestarlearning.co.uk/early-years-outdoors/hand-hygiene-outdoors/

Pinterest board: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/creativestar/outdoor-nurseries-forest-kindergarten/hand-hygiene/

Spatap: https://spatap.com/

Tippy Tap videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gPbKvem-vg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4d1nLpqx0M&fbclid=IwAR2qbq-cwAGxv5G80ywHDnFDpiq6s-PBF1qz6fy55Get2bL5AQ0vXntuXVU

CDC suggestions: https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/hand/handwashing.html

Quote: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it best, so here’s a direct quote: “Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of germs to others. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs.”

https://www.hap.org/blog/2016/11/handwashing

Book pick:

Hey, Water! By Antionette Portis

https://amzn.to/3fwXiNM

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Online Professional Development Jun 06, 2020

Slate School Education Idea Lab

https://www.facebook.com/SlateSchool/

NINPA

https://www.facebook.com/naturepreschools/

NAEYC Leadership Institute

https://www.naeyc.org/virtual-institute

Ooey Gooey Lady

https://www.facebook.com/pg/OoeyGooeyLady/videos/?ref=page_internal

Play Empowers

https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1723076201149669&id=326622114128425&__xts__[0]=68.ARADM3Va87XC1jIHlTzOUpXX2757wZl5QxQZcDZLWUTzKrjlXAuYmT_aZT_DAV5yYWs0aG3QNJ9LGjwpowK1A_thmw2NlEFF4mxJLqDKeQxqDUBrcbpbD5QFX2rHNVLkHEXMwOuHJLOYaApH--MB3awuNuQiiVZcc6e5AyJw5cxAqxZPSQShQ1ba_wPxEkXx3AyIzQV7Ttegztwxw1aGOTqTaOgOl6yCHu6eJNSKoaTNpnHbFZO7D0Ibauc4QW42aHLE9KnbvY5z4nFAfjCgnfKrqGxmqBvrSHyaLyuePMLkQBDxckfbpUnZ5mfMmdtZHXbn1hduqchfOqcH0rSHzEre_Q&__tn__=-R

Rob Fox—Active Childhood UK

https://www.facebook.com/groups/545063349033409/

Transforming Challenging Behavior Conference

https://www.challengingbehaviorconference.com/

Low Cost:

Marc Armitage

Nikki Buchanan

7 Day Loose Parts Challenge

STEM Conference

Nature Preschool Conference—online

https://naturalstart.org/nature-based-early-learning-conference

Quote:

One quality of leaders and high achievers in every area seems to be a commitment to ongoing personal and professional development. --Brian Tracy

Book pick (aff link):

Cultivating Outdoor Classrooms

https://amzn.to/30f17CB

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Architecture May 28, 2020

The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes (Netflix)

Cas Holman, Art of Design (Netflix)

Architecture Loose Parts Post:

https://www.facebook.com/TheVeryYoungExplorer/posts/1110289942676462

Building with Index Cards, Toothpicks, Playdough, and Tape:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/LoosePartsPlay/permalink/3201233149898283/

Books about Fort Building:

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2019/01/fort-building-story-books.html

Den Making Podcast Episode:

https://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/fabric-as-a-loose-part-den-making

Book and product picks (aff links):

Rigamajig: https://amzn.to/2XCTq6w

Rigamajig Jr.: https://amzn.to/2XzTJih

Iggy Peck Architect: https://amzn.to/2X7wSKR

(great bridge!)

Iggy Peck and the Mysterious Mansion (early chapter book): https://amzn.to/2zLsqcG

Building Up: https://amzn.to/2XcRqlj

(Loved the real life pictures of buildings, the architect profiles, and GREAT quotes by the architects!)

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Safety Considerations with Coronavirus May 18, 2020

Disclaimer: I am not your licensing agent or your state governing agency— please find your recommendations locally and see what might work for your space, students, and families.

Picture of preschoolers in socially distanced chalk squares while outside:

https://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/497617-viral-photo-shows-preschoolers-confined-to-chalk-squares-for

Find recommendations at:

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/guidance-for-childcare.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/schools-faq.html

WHO: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1

Boulder Journey School

Virtual Dialogue Series: http://educators.boulderjourneyschool.com/virtualdialogue.html

Info for Parents: http://educators.boulderjourneyschool.com/covid-19-updates.html

Book for children around COVID 19: https://www.who.int/news-room/detail/09-04-2020-children-s-story-book-released-to-help-children-and-young-people-cope-with-covid-19

Story on social distancing for younger children: https://www.facebook.com/hilltoptotsdaynursery/videos/2520699654864442/

Another book on wearing masks: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NTFy4pzReQvUEC8waH31aijzZSX8NOLe/view

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Storage May 15, 2020

Challenge: Find one small area of your loose parts that needs a storage revamp this week and work on it. Share your success in the LPP group!

Intaking Donations Podcast Episode:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/intaking-loose-parts

Provoking Play, Inviting Wonder

Called it organized hoarding

https://provokingplayinvitingwonder.com/2018/10/05/loose-parts-series-day-5-collecting-and-storing-loose-parts/

Fairy Dust teaching—more on displaying in class

https://fairydustteaching.com/2016/10/12-ideas-for-storing-loose-parts/

Loose Parts Toolkit

26-29

https://www.inspiringscotland.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Loose-Parts-Play-Toolkit-2019-web.pdf

Nature Explore Storage Options:

http://shop.natureexplore.org/s.nl/sc.1/category.1517/.f

Pinterest Storage Options:

https://www.pinterest.com/outsidemichiana/loose-parts-play-how-to-store-and-display/

Book Pick (aff link)

Playing It Up with Loose Parts

https://amzn.to/35Mg9R6

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Beavers May 07, 2020

Beavers in Spring blog post:

https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2014/04/beavers-in-spring.html

http://www.beaversww.org/beavers-and-wetlands/about-beavers/

http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3381.htm

http://www.nationaltrappers.com/beaver.html

Book Pick (aff ink):

I’m Done!

https://amzn.to/2L6RxZV

Beaver Skull Replica

https://amzn.to/3caTEYF

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Loose Parts Lending Kits Apr 30, 2020

Austin, TX Loose Parts Lending Kits:

http://www.austintexas.gov/page/loose-parts-lending-kits-program

Wrap Up Report:

https://pardpartnerships.wufoo.com/forms/pdqthsb0s3s6m4/

How to Start a Toy Library:

https://www.shareable.net/how-to-start-a-toy-library-12-quick-tips/

Minneapolis Toy Library Q&A:

https://newdream.org/downloads/New_Dream_Step_by_Step_Toy_Lending_Library.pdf

https://www.zeroish.org/2018/01/08/real-life-i-started-a-toy-lending-library/

How Toy Libraries Work: https://www.moneycrashers.com/toy-lending-libraries-exchanges/

Why Every City Needs a Toy Library: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2018/11/every-city-should-have-toy-library/575272/

USA Toy Library Association: https://www.usatla.org/

Book Pick:

Perfect Square by Michael Hall (aff link)

https://amzn.to/2KIiPpe

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Fathers' Perspectives on Tree Climbing Apr 23, 2020

Natural Start Alliance

https://naturalstart.org/

International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education

https://naturalstart.org/research/ijecee/volume-7-number-2

Fathers’ Perspectives on Tree Climbing

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/8._final_gull_goldstein_rosengarten.pdf

Benefits and Risks of Tree Climbing on Child Development and Resiliency

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/6._gull_et_al.pdf

Tree Climbing Podcast Episode:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/tree-climbing

Rain or Shine Mamma: Tree Climbing

http://rainorshinemamma.com/parents-stop-worrying-and-let-your-children-climb-trees/

Book Pick:

Children’s Environmental Identity Development (aff link)

https://amzn.to/3asHwAj

Book Review:

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/9._book_review_environmental_identity.pdf

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Rolling into Physics: Ramp Investigations Apr 16, 2020

Goals:

https://az.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/tdpd12.pd.sci.ballgoals/goals-for-the-understanding-of-balls-and-ramps/

Tutorial to make PVC ramps for outdoors: https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2015/06/loose-parts-nature-play-ramps.html#more

Kodo Kids Simple Machines: RAMP handout

https://gallery.mailchimp.com/4211daa00c01182f4ee38d460/files/1b846eb2-f501-4fcd-9a7b-74ab0fd2566c/Kodo_Simple_Machines_downloadable_2.pdf

Meeting Standards: Tinker guide page 25 LEARNING GUIDELINES The Physical Sciences #20. Investigate and describe or demonstrate various ways that objects can move.

https://www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org/sites/default/files/pdfs/Tinker_Kit_Educators_Guide_singles_web.pdf

Infants: https://childhood101.com/baby-play-ideas-vehicles-balls-ramps/

Rube Goldberg machines: http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/rube-goldberg-machines

Brain Game Rube Goldberg clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-qs8DsMoZk

Marble Sand Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lII00_v5khU

KodoKids Webinar:

Tips:

https://www.rampsandpathways.org/ramps-pathways/tips-implementation

Kindergarten Lesson:

https://www.brighthubeducation.com/pre-k-and-k-lesson-plans/127938-learning-with-a-ball-and-a-ramp-kindergarten-science-lesson/

Things that Don’t Roll:

https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/lesson-plans/teaching-content/activity-plan-4-5-ramps/

Extensions:

https://www.mottchildren.org/posts/camp-little-victors/diy-ball-and-ramp

Vocabulary: https://www.rampsandpathways.org/ramps-pathways/faqs

Tips: http://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/2014/teaching-stem-with-ramps

Questions to Ask: https://regentsctr.uni.edu/sites/default/files/activity_sheets/Ramps_and_Pathways_Activity_Sheet_2018.pdf

Book Pick (aff links):

STEM Learning with Young Children: Inquiry Teaching with Ramps and Pathways: https://amzn.to/2K97OwW

Mousetrap Game: https://amzn.to/2VuGOxf

Magnetic marble run— https://amzn.to/3afPQ6q

Qbamaze: https://amzn.to/2RGbaLQ

Choke Test Tube: https://amzn.to/2xqakwa

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Using Facebook Live Apr 09, 2020

Slides Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1oomMwQiRuRHY94MF5AUexZXDEaZxi51CKdrlO28UuMg/edit?usp=sharing

Creating a Facebook Group--lots of ideas and suggestions beyond the set up

https://www.mitostudios.com/blog/teachers-how-to-create-a-private-school-facebook-group/

Research Paper on Using FB Live

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282251534_FACEBOOK_AS_A_TOOL_FOR_TEACHING_AND_LEARNING

How to go Live:

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/facebook-live-guide

Going Live: https://www.campussuite.com/blog/how-to-use-facebook-live-at-school?hs_amp=true

Facebook stands: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDIn3AopsTM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hR_tntKxQ8E

Paper towel holder: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCF-uPQ4zzo

https://simplyfutbol.com/diy-phone-stand/

Examples:

Google spreadsheet of LIVE learning opportunities: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/1/d/1ktokKTiAJsqRs2hVSS1iDDQf25q-548BmhoAxjHMFPw/htmlview

Preschool Music Time https://m.facebook.com/calvarypreschoolwc/

StoryMakers https://www.facebook.com/makersofstories/videos/217458522836787/

Tinkergarten https://www.facebook.com/tinkergarten/videos/618098505405760/ --note sound quality is bad at beginning and hard to see book illustrations, but has other good ideas.

How to create a private Facebook group:

https://www.mitostudios.com/blog/teachers-how-to-create-a-private-school-facebook-group/

20 Zoom Activities:

https://fdt-freebies.s3.amazonaws.com/Zoom+Activities.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3pPU56ib6GLmbT3tusOv5DWQi8extO5MM-cZv9gEuWkrVRsrWrnlHxcIw

Book Pick (aff link):

A Stick Until

https://amzn.to/34n1ET7

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Breakout Boxes Apr 01, 2020

Gamification TED talk McGonical

https://www.ted.com/talks/jane_mcgonigal_gaming_can_make_a_better_world?language=en

STEM Teachers Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/STEMteachertribe/

Earlier Grades Option

https://steminspired.wordpress.com/tag/breakoutedu/

Free COVID Resource of Breakout.edu

https://www.breakoutedu.com/covid19

Breakout.edu

https://www.breakoutedu.com/funathome

Google Drive on Breakout Games:

https://drive.google.com/drive/mobile/folders/0BxZZoj1LsIceWWx0alNHRFRIdHc?usp=sharing

Materials (Aff Links):

Breaking into Break out Boxes Book

https://amzn.to/2UMqM1b

Escape room “game”

https://amzn.to/2JwM0uF

Toolbox

https://amzn.to/2wDyZwR

Locks (I got 8 total)

3 number combo https://amzn.to/39vzJkI

3 number combo https://amzn.to/2ydnpZx

3 number combo https://amzn.to/2yjjWZv

4 letter word https://amzn.to/2UxV49f

4 letter word https://amzn.to/2ymPRZd

4 number combo https://amzn.to/2wN8RiU

5 number combo https://amzn.to/2UJR1p4

Hasp (I got 2)

https://amzn.to/2UNwmjR

Black Light Markers

https://amzn.to/33VtmpM

Black Light Flashlight

https://amzn.to/2QXTcEC

Speed Cube Set

https://amzn.to/2UMzBYZ

Breakout Box List on Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/loosepartsplay?listId=1BBBIGI9U23RF&ref=cm_sw_em_r_inf_list_own_loosepartsplay_dp_eOr3P56pyfdKf

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

52 Things to Do Outside (Before You Grow Up) Mar 25, 2020

https://52thingsoutside.org/

Printables:

https://52thingsoutside.org/printables/

Spring Options:

https://52thingsoutside.org/spring/

Exploring Sounds in Nature:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/exploring-sounds-in-nature

Playing in the Rain:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/playing-in-the-rain

Quote:

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience. –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Book Pick (aff link):

A Seed is Sleepy

https://amzn.to/2xibNEc

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Loose Parts Play During Social Distancing Mar 19, 2020

Loose Parts Play BINGO printable:

https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdrive.google.com%2Ffile%2Fd%2F1l7uW0EuLCTyFRWtwVBnmxEFv1izfHb9y%2Fview%3Fusp%3Dsharing&data=02%7C01%7C%7C4e013333d1834bce799c08d7ccd7b0c1%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637203099068610858&sdata=ZfivycdLjupoRkQ2AkG7tLWLOq933XMABgXmf%2FiOMGQ%3D&reserved=0

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Exploring Sounds in Nature Mar 10, 2020

Animal and Bird Sounds: allaboutbirds.org or https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.in.gov%2Fdnr%2Fkids%2F5914.htm&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdb54f35a8c20474bb9a708d7c49be1cd%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637194046087829604&sdata=A3ORjMa0OeN5MnNb8a8PpNRSTrqMwLFJDYvs4SCvAfY%3D&reserved=0 Stainless Steel Bucket (aff links): https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F2vdz8GA&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdb54f35a8c20474bb9a708d7c49be1cd%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637194046087829604&sdata=caOCndE68hRGbMqvr19%2FuMOr3suCrPl9Qyb4ENEgzLU%3D&reserved=0 Wooden Mallets: https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3cMlsmQ&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdb54f35a8c20474bb9a708d7c49be1cd%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637194046087829604&sdata=tcndTmEsSCjyCjKxK%2Boqh0ZVDOb%2FtjpAgoUN8i9Hrmg%3D&reserved=0 Nature’s music is never over; her silences are pauses, not conclusions. –Mary Webb The Listening Walk https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F39JoDtG&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdb54f35a8c20474bb9a708d7c49be1cd%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637194046087829604&sdata=ubBB7TKrlC7PCgJCmeyapNlWzFs3wC8nrzoPBWEf9VQ%3D&reserved=0 Max Found Two Sticks https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F335l5PD&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdb54f35a8c20474bb9a708d7c49be1cd%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637194046087829604&sdata=Sqbwatq3WykZUmLxqntjueQYLAClwvDe3XByMQabSe4%3D&reserved=0 Listen, Listen (bonus pick—I forgot to talk about it!) https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F2wIgwil&data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdb54f35a8c20474bb9a708d7c49be1cd%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637194046087839609&sdata=RdpK6Z804e67vfHZ%2B7%2FQkallXt1alWQ49VbZd%2B46AlU%3D&reserved=0

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Tinker Carts Mar 03, 2020

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Destructive Play Feb 25, 2020

Chelsey Bahe Take ‘Em Outside: https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTake-Em-Outside-595238427269256%2F&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063813203&sdata=CLXWAxsazXwEAccjr4%2BB1KoqNLEa6c%2BCgpngaNGyXqw%3D&reserved=0 Tinkergarten Parts and wholes lesson: https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftinkergarten.com%2Factivities%2Fparts-and-wholes&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063813203&sdata=OHOfaB5xeam7mxlzPnN5kuYeNM2Ij7XSm7w5nKCC0Ek%3D&reserved=0 Tips from Tinkergarten on destructive play: https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftinkergarten.com%2Fblog%2Fwhy-destroying-stuff-is-good-for-our-kids&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063823197&sdata=lXCZVRzHy5y%2FL%2B%2FOpiwfK30yZo%2BeqZaGR2ZMUT6xWbk%3D&reserved=0 Developmental Need: Dissecting flowers (loose parts and botany): https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTheVeryYoungExplorer%2Fposts%2F1004259716612819&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063823197&sdata=%2Bi%2FIAEpDxQB4Rxt0UV9Lu2mluX4f0sYBUClR2YkdmxE%3D&reserved=0 STEM: taking apart an old electric appliance (hand-held vacuum cleaner): https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTheVeryYoungExplorer%2Fposts%2F1003608160011308&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063823197&sdata=Yl2siVbtHGGr7vLKmO2aSFVcI0ElogntB8Z7WFSJ6FY%3D&reserved=0 https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FInsideOutsideMichiana%2Fposts%2F927909960699153&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063823197&sdata=aBRTih44VUZqymz3g4UScIgQPKKi5PhVMz7So2Jcra4%3D&reserved=0 Post from Reggio Inspired Early Childhood Educators https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgroups%2Freggioinsrpiredearlychildhoodeducators%2Fpermalink%2F1212574665605398%2F&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063823197&sdata=2fNFt0n2M0VHDIiSEQP51YfAsp7p4M%2FfFu5nu%2F%2BxBOk%3D&reserved=0 Post from Loose Parts Play https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgroups%2FLoosePartsPlay%2Fpermalink%2F2921407971214137%2F&data=02%7C01%7C%7C651d5baa68ed4cbdf81808d7b6f67c1c%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637179042063823197&sdata=rfEgc0ZCj2bSH8lAR7hza%2BjQfRNCL0PjMXjVtZYG%2FXc%3D&reserved=0 “Being destructive for the child in a play context is just as much about tearing up old ideas and notions as it is about tearing up a leaf into tiny, tiny strips...and both should be encouraged.” --Marc Armitage Book Pick: Salad Pie: Maggie is enjoying her time alone in the park making “salad pie” until Herbert shows up. He tries to add to her salad pie, but she doesn’t want his help. He persists, saving her and the salad at the bottom of the slide. Thanks, Kimberly G.!

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Global School Play Day Feb 18, 2020

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Stick Sculptures Feb 11, 2020

Willows for Sale—Rusty Keeler https://earthplay.net/product/spring-willow/ Patrick Dougherty: http://www.stickwork.net/ Quote I think that part of my work’s allure is its impermanence, the life cycle that is built into the growth and decay of saplings. My focus has always been the process of building a work and allowing those who pass to enjoy the daily changes or drama of building a sculpture as well as the final product. However, the line between trash and treasure is thin, and the sculptures, like the sticks they are made from, begin to fade after two years. Often the public imagines that a work of art should be made to last, but I believe that a sculpture, like a good flower bed, has its season. – Patrick Dougherty (source) Sticks are something we all have in common. Everybody knows sticks – the twigs and branches picked up on grandfather’s farm; the branches woven in grandmother’s basket. Somewhere threaded in all the public mass is a common thread, and that thread is the human spirit. --Patrick Dougherty Books (aff links) Stickwork by Patrick Dougherty--I think I absolutely love this because I was able to work side by side with Patrick on one of his creations. I enjoyed the process and love his whimsical stick work. Since we have ample sticks, this is great eye candy as we get started with outdoor creations. Read about our adventures here. Not a Stick https://amzn.to/2UI7dJc Stick and Stone https://amzn.to/2Sjw2cR Stick by Irene Dickson https://amzn.to/2UDzpNf

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Rube Goldberg Machines Feb 04, 2020

Videos Power of Optics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nCIzPuLYJA&t=20s&fbclid=IwAR2-luECIUMuMf65yJbdUtbDZC_YnpyEnBFCyYD4DPGHYUa93tZPqG2ZQfo

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Squirrel Appreciation Jan 28, 2020

Squirrel Appreciation Day—January 21

https://nationaltoday.com/national-squirrel-appreciation-day/

Squirrel facts—Wellfield Botanic Gardens

https://www.facebook.com/WellfieldBotanicGardens/photos/a.123076787741389/2596797693702607/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/WellfieldBotanicGardens/photos/a.123076787741389/2597453073637069/?type=3&theater

Pictures of Taking a Squirrel Walk

https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutsideMichiana/posts/1465010006989143?__xts__[0]=68.ARB-_wyeGKuVkqV2zAy6uh465lPOGQVs8KG1gOBo4tzuup9FbjQiHj7WxKPPkBlQRxvXYARkjInhjCpQLMcljANq0rh6tSC17U9KLRLufdytcCijvfSM3YAKKMaBPDTMXZgLmukZm3ZVHvB33I4BUoFTcPC2vBU6v75kHJ43cdDKm-842dK45qC19EGqGj0WHkALEJm7mutZWfdrIdHG2Hg6y02Ranm1E9X_Hwv1MpTqe_Hvs18vSMDrJePr9xzUxgs9grhup2q6Qj76oWeY6-3UTlSOCCo1lMso_GKTiO-Eh6eIUSQ9pHwX-TTz-tsp5i2vfQk1FItv5sFiow5T6PWO9Q&__tn__=-R

Live animals always trump anything else! Take time to watch and observe.

Nature of Teaching

https://ag.purdue.edu/extension/nature/Pages/default.aspx

Animal Play Podcast Episode

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/animal-play

Connecting Children to Animals Podcast Episode

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/connecting-children-to-animals-0

Animals in Winter

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/animals-in-winter

Squirrel Wisdom

Prepare.

Be Resourceful

If you have more than you need, share.

Grab opportunities.

Have fun!

May contain aff links at no cost to you

Books

Squirrels Leap, Squirrels Sleep

https://amzn.to/2sJEnMK

Nuts to You

https://amzn.to/2txfK6D

Squirrels by Brian Wildsmith--didn't realize this was so hard to get!

https://amzn.to/2TL6ruf

Folkmanis Puppets

Gray Squirrel https://amzn.to/2RyY9ms

Red Squirrel https://amzn.to/2TJLu2Z

Flying Squirrel https://amzn.to/2RIn8DV

Chipmunk https://amzn.to/2v5WSMa

Flying Squirrel Costume

https://amzn.to/36cvx80

Indiana DNR Information Sheets

https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3357.htm

Nature Preschool Ideas & Community Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NaturePreschool/

Adorable Squirrel Photos:

https://mymodernmet.com/dick-van-duijn-cute-squirrel-pictures/

Sneaky Snacky Squirrel

https://amzn.to/38w8Xca

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Electricity as a Loose Part Jan 20, 2020

NGSS Standards:

https://www.nextgenscience.org

Resource on Paper Circuits:

https://www.makerspaces.com/paper-circuits/

Energy Stick (aff links):

https://amzn.to/2G9Gqgq

Energy Ball:

https://amzn.to/2G9C0G5

Squishy Circuits:

https://amzn.to/2G65p4f

https://amzn.to/3amd1gR

Electronic Components Kit:

https://amzn.to/2uiX9Li

Battery Holders:

https://amzn.to/3amdijT

https://amzn.to/38nerpn

Button Batteries:

https://amzn.to/38pJj8Y

LEDs:

https://amzn.to/2Rxsbap

Alligator Clips:

https://amzn.to/30FkP8J

Wire Stripper/Cutter:

https://amzn.to/37hVFjm

Little Bits:

https://amzn.to/2Rx27fG

Circuit Blocks/Electronic Blocks:

https://amzn.to/2G5GTQq

Snap Circuits:

https://amzn.to/2RxzCym

https://amzn.to/37ei29k

Conductive Copper Tape:

https://amzn.to/2sD8mWC

Making and Tinkering with STEM (aff links)

https://amzn.to/39HILwi

Rosie Revere Engineer:

https://amzn.to/2NJJy6O

Rosie Revere Engineer Project Book:

https://amzn.to/2G7Whfk

Bird LEGO kit:

https://amzn.to/2RAdqn3

Tinkering Books:

https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2019/09/books-for-tinkering.html

Electricity is just organized lightning. –George Carlin

What is a soul? It's like electricity - we don't really know what it is, but it's a force that can light a room. --Ray Charles

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Magnetic Games Jan 13, 2020

Standards Met:

https://www.nextgenscience.org/topic-arrangement/3forces-and-interactions

Cain’s Arcade

http://cainesarcade.com

Abstract on Netflix with Cas Holman

https://www.dwell.com/article/interview-toy-designer-cas-holman-rigamajig-1f60ac26

https://www.netflix.com/title/80057883

Kristin Fontichiaro’s website

http://fontichiaro.com

Rigamajig:

https://www.rigamajig.com

Cardboard as a Loose Part podcast episode

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/cardboard-as-a-loose-part

STEM groups

https://www.facebook.com/groups/STEAMCafe/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/STEMteachertribe/

I believe that there is a subtle magnetism in Nature, which, if we unconsciously yield to it, will direct us aright. -- Henry David Thoreau

(Aff Links) Awesome Dawson:

https://amzn.to/2SOCPMe

Low Temp Hot Glue Gun

https://amzn.to/2QpIneq

Rigamajig

https://amzn.to/36pxBur

Rigamajig Jr.

https://amzn.to/2QLK44L

Klever Kutters

https://amzn.to/2MVl6yV

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Makerspaces Jan 06, 2020

Engineering Design Process

https://www.teachengineering.org/k12engineering/designprocess

Intaking Loose Parts Process

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/intaking-loose-parts

Fontichiaro’s website:

http://www.fontichiaro.com/activelearning/page/3/

Making and Tinkering with STEM webinar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65X2bEYCAIs

Making and Tinkering with STEM (aff links)

https://amzn.to/39HILwi

Klever Kutters

https://amzn.to/2MVl6yV

Makedo

https://amzn.to/2T3Zq7N

Low Temp Hot Glue Gun

https://amzn.to/2QpIneq

Fraidyzoo

https://amzn.to/2STPH3u

Making Makers

https://amzn.to/35qqGzM

MAKE: Tinkering

https://amzn.to/2ujTtJr

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

An Evening with Richard Louv Dec 07, 2019

Our relationships with other-than-human beings can have a profoundly positive impact on our health, our spirit, and our sense of inclusiveness in the world.

--Richard Louv

Play is a form of enchantment, bringing us out of ourselves and offering a deeper understanding of another creature, an expanded experience, and, when we reenter ourselves, maybe even greater wisdom.

--Richard Louv

Animal Play:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/animal-play

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2015/03/16-ideas-for-animal-play.html

Connecting Children to Animals:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/connecting-children-to-animals-0

Coyote’s Guide to Connecting to Nature

https://amzn.to/2p5g4XZ

Our Wild Calling

https://amzn.to/2Q0zJTM

Environmental Education Association of Indiana

http://eeai.org

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Intaking Loose Parts Nov 23, 2019

Intaking Loose Parts

Ask! Be specific. Advertise.
Designate a collecting place.
Inspect for safety hazards and applicability.
Clean.
Sort.
Containerize. Make it visual.
Store.
Rotate.
Consider your maintenance plan.

We believe that every child knows how to play, and needs only time, space, opportunity and maybe a little support in order to do so. Climbing trees, making box forts, loitering in hammocks—these are the experiences every child needs and deserves.

-Morgan Leichter-Saxby and Suzanna Law

The New Adventure Playground Movement

https://amzn.to/32ylh8i

Pop Up Adventure Play

https://popupadventureplaygrounds.wordpress.com

https://www.facebook.com/popupplay/

Smooth Edge Can Opener

https://amzn.to/33A9pUu

Fish Bowl Organizers

https://amzn.to/36QWj7B

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Outdoor Kit Nov 08, 2019

"Let children walk with Nature, let them see the beautiful blendings and communions of death and life, their joyous inseparable unity, as taught in woods and meadows, plains and mountains and streams of our blessed star, and they will learn that death is stingless indeed, and as beautiful as life."

John Muir

First Aid Kit:

https://amzn.to/33q2opo

Clipboards:

https://amzn.to/32tGPDb

Fundanas:

https://www.fundanabandanas.com

Wagon:

https://amzn.to/2PTnloE

Lugable Loo:

https://amzn.to/33qljjV

Stainless Steel Buckets:

https://amzn.to/2CmF3c6

Go Find It:

https://amzn.to/33oQGLN

Go Find It Too:

https://amzn.to/36JzfHB

Play the Forest School Way:

https://amzn.to/36HPFAg

(aff links)

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Adding Loose Parts to an Elementary Schoolyard Oct 27, 2019

Scrapstore Playpod

https://youtu.be/nqi1KyJJeKg

More natural options from Evergreen Canada:

https://youtu.be/MDl5T51zhh0

Temporary and Mobile Nature Play options:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/nature-play-fun-creating-temporary-and-mobile-nature-play-spaces

Outdoor Classrooms:

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/outdoor-classrooms

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/loose-parts-in-outdoor-classrooms-0

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/adding-plants-to-an-outdoor-classroom-0

Outdoor Classroom Day https://outdoorclassroomday.com/resources/lesson-ideas/

7 November 2019, 21 May 2020

PLT Green Schools Initiative== https://www.plt.org/educator-tips/creating-an-outdoor-classroom-things-to-consider/

http://www.schoolyards.org/pdf/OutdoorClassroomUsersGuide.pdf

Children fund raised: https://www.milkeneducatorawards.org/connections/articles/view/crystal-dozier-outdoor-classroom

We could never have loved the earth so well if we had had no childhood in it. –George Eliot

Books (aff links):

Playing it Up with Loose Parts

https://amzn.to/2Bs7VPE

Nature Play at Home

https://amzn.to/35N54ix

Asphalt to Ecosystems Design ideas for schoolyard transformation

https://amzn.to/2B7RDeL

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Concerns with an Outdoor Space Oct 11, 2019

The First Days of School (Wong and Wong):

https://amzn.to/35pa0cW

Fabrics in an Outdoor Classroom Podcast Episode (Gull—that’s me!):

http://loosepartsnatureplay.libsyn.com/fabric-as-a-loose-part-den-making

Nature Preschools and Forest Kindergartens: The Handbook for Outdoor Learning (David Sobel):

https://amzn.to/2nFig7O

Preschool Beyond Walls: Blending Early Childhood and Nature-Based Learning (Larimore):

https://amzn.to/33hj2a0

A Forest Days Handbook: Program Design for School Days Outside (Minnucci):

https://amzn.to/31byAek

“Children are born naturalists. They explore the world with all of their senses, experiment in the environment, and communicate their discoveries to those around them.” ~ The Audubon Nature Preschool

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

The Kids Aren't Playing! Sep 24, 2019

Loose Parts Inspired Books

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2016/04/loose-parts-books.html

Marc Armitage’s Dump Challenge

https://m.facebook.com/marc.armitage.at.play/posts/tackle-the-great-adult-dilemma-embrace-the-dump-a-challengeplay-playing-playwork/2169568523152250/

30 plus Approaches to Loose Parts

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2017/05/30-plus-ways-to-approach-loose-parts.html

Book Pick: This is Sadie

https://amzn.to/32E8ulj

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Loose Parts in Outdoor Classrooms Aug 22, 2019

Definitions of Loose Parts in Early Childhood Outdoor Classrooms: A Scoping Review

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/6._gull_et_al._formatted_draft_v2.pdf

A Whole Other Magic by Gigi Joob

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1999090101?ref=myi_title_dp

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Loose Parts in Outdoor Classrooms Aug 22, 2019

Definitions of Loose Parts in Early Childhood Outdoor Classrooms: A Scoping Review

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/6._gull_et_al._formatted_draft_v2.pdf

A Whole Other Magic by Gigi Joob

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1999090101?ref=myi_title_dp

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Embracing Diversity in Children’s Nature Books Jun 23, 2019

Embracing Diversity in Children’s Nature Books

https://naturalstart.org/sites/default/files/journal/9._book_reviews_formatted_0.pdf

Natural Start Alliance:

https://naturalstart.org/

Book Picks (Aff links):

Amy’s Light

https://amzn.to/2Xn5Oth

Because Your Mommy Loves You

https://amzn.to/2IwsIGj

Bringing the Outside In

https://amzn.to/2Xn5P0j

Daniel Finds a Poem

https://amzn.to/2XtPSW2

Fort Building Time

https://amzn.to/2XtXPKQ

Hiking Day

https://amzn.to/2N2QM80

I Am the Rain

https://amzn.to/2IAsqyl

If You Love Honey: Nature’s Connections

https://amzn.to/2N1kie9

John Denver’s For Baby

https://amzn.to/2X4z5cZ

John Denver’s Sunshine on My Shoulders

https://amzn.to/2XqIQl2

Sometimes Rain

https://amzn.to/2WUVo4y

Stick!

https://amzn.to/2Fqbloq

The Snowy Day

https://amzn.to/2WYIBhp

Under One Rock

https://amzn.to/2WZTuzJ

Water is Water

https://amzn.to/2XtXEPG

What’s in the Garden?

https://amzn.to/2FmNu9u

When the Snow Falls

https://amzn.to/2WYNebp

Where’s Rodney?

https://amzn.to/2N4FiB1

Wild Ones: Observing City Critters

https://amzn.to/2XtPE18

Other Resources:

Black Faces, White Spaces

Building Cultural Empathy and Celebrating Diversity in Nature-based Early Childhood Education—

https://naturalstart.org/feature-stories/building-cultural-empathy-and-celebrating-diversity-nature-basedearly-childhood

Diverse Book Finder—

https://diversebookfinder.org/

Forest Kindergartens: A Multicultural Perspective—

https://naturalstart.org/feature-stories/forest-kindergartens-multicultural-perspective

Hashtag— #WeNeedDiverseBooks

Outdoor Afro: Where Black People and Nature Meet—

http://outdoorafro.com/

The Nature Book Nook Book—

https://www.facebook.com/naturebooknook/

Nature-inspired Children’s Book and Storytelling Facebook group—

https://www.facebook.com/groups/naturechildrensbooks/

The Ultimate List of Diverse & Inclusive Books to Support Nature-based Learning

https://www.wonderkin.com/blog-home/diverse-and-inclusive-books-to-support-nature-based-learning

Urban Environmental Education

https://naaee.org/eepro/resources/urbanenvironmental-education

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Playing in the Rain Jun 08, 2019

Playing in the Rain:

https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2014/08/playing-in-rain.html

Tinkergarten Umbrella/Rain activities:

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/clouds-rain-and-meatballs

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/secret-hideaway

Gearing Up for the Rain:

https://tinkergarten.com/pages/wet-winter

Quotes:

"Anyone who says sunshine brings happiness has never danced in the rain." - Author Unknown

"A rainy day is the perfect time for a walk in the woods" - Rachel Carson

"Life's not about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about Learning To Dance In The Rain." - Vivian Greene

Book Picks (aff links):

The Big Umbrella

https://amzn.to/2WRRUio

I Am the Rain

https://amzn.to/2Wk3f6w

Sometimes Rain

https://amzn.to/2Kz3clg

Water is Water

https://amzn.to/2EUSDFu

Rain by Manya Stojic

https://amzn.to/2ET0fbh

Puddle Jumpers by Anne Margaret Lewis

https://amzn.to/2I4o4iJ

Raindrops Roll by April Pulley Sayre

https://amzn.to/2EW9VlF

Mushroom in the Rain

https://amzn.to/2EWgQLn

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

NAI Region 4 Conference May 30, 2019

NAI—National Association of Interpretation:

https://www.interpnet.com/

Region 4: http://nairegion4.weeb ly.com/

CIG Training:

https://www.interpnet.com/NAI/interp/Certification/Overview/nai/_certification/NAI_Certification.aspx?hkey=fa8b1be4-ee12-436d-ac61-7cdd7efd3926

2019 Region 4 Conference:

http://nairegion4.weebly.com/uploads/8/9/3/5/8935383/nai_region_4_2019_workshop_booklet_final.pdf

Interpretation Information and Quotes:

https://www.nps.gov/idp/interp/101/FoundationsCurriculum.pdf

Book Pick (aff link):

https://amzn.to/2W7G1EK

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Simple Machines Outdoors! May 16, 2019

Simple Machines Outdoors!

Pictures;

https://www.facebook.com/loosepartsnatureplay/posts/354046738501089?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARBqVeFmKtVAY8Vmu6rOaxkzOCegTf9ZPcyA_7Q9KgXMByf6V6fYn_pByDkguaJgYtfGc2Oa4rZ19iN36OXZbrQbSSx9CLE1ky0G6FqIEDav0EwHuZtHetA8vw-5z2UJEHuAxIdbNOrSqFIz0WGWsYyuMXY_GQVln0zf5FxQwmoICm7Fg0MLvIOCmYSKItcUpevHbHVQnWhCHjATgxt13Omna12hg9YApluv6sDG3zqebx-692e6cw_al4eGqZ1Y6QH2SmyV9dU247Q3GZdNlJ5yZ7cPkXW6DhorGFTgz80UGYS66_womputbmxJfq0sJOdDRQJHxT2wqbVFHi9XY_Y&__tn__=-R

Pulley Play:

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/pulley-play

Balancing gnomes:

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/balancing-gnomes

Great resource:

https://www.mass.edu/stem/documents/preschoolcurricular/CEES%20Curriculum%20Simple%20Machines.pdf

PBS video—a little outdated, but still good info and examples.

https://www.pbs.org/video/science-trek-simple-machines/

Quotes

“Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.” — Roger Lewin

Books (aff links):

And Everyone Shouted “Pull”!

https://amzn.to/2VACfEn

Pulleys:

Fort Building Time

https://amzn.to/2LUmjbR

Andrew Henry's Meadow

https://amzn.to/2VAkOE6

Pigs from A to Z

https://amzn.to/2E5DEbm

The Day the Babies Crawled Away

https://amzn.to/30jsxVK

A Big Ball of String

https://amzn.to/2YnITL6

Albert's Alphabet

https://amzn.to/2LCkIqD

The Fort on Fourth Street: A Story About Six Simple Machines

Learning Resources Simple Machine Set

https://amzn.to/2VD0xxu

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Simple Machines Outdoors! May 16, 2019

Simple Machines Outdoors!

Pictures;

https://www.facebook.com/loosepartsnatureplay/posts/354046738501089?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARBqVeFmKtVAY8Vmu6rOaxkzOCegTf9ZPcyA_7Q9KgXMByf6V6fYn_pByDkguaJgYtfGc2Oa4rZ19iN36OXZbrQbSSx9CLE1ky0G6FqIEDav0EwHuZtHetA8vw-5z2UJEHuAxIdbNOrSqFIz0WGWsYyuMXY_GQVln0zf5FxQwmoICm7Fg0MLvIOCmYSKItcUpevHbHVQnWhCHjATgxt13Omna12hg9YApluv6sDG3zqebx-692e6cw_al4eGqZ1Y6QH2SmyV9dU247Q3GZdNlJ5yZ7cPkXW6DhorGFTgz80UGYS66_womputbmxJfq0sJOdDRQJHxT2wqbVFHi9XY_Y&__tn__=-R

Pulley Play:

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/pulley-play

Balancing gnomes:

https://tinkergarten.com/activities/balancing-gnomes

Great resource:

https://www.mass.edu/stem/documents/preschoolcurricular/CEES%20Curriculum%20Simple%20Machines.pdf

PBS video—a little outdated, but still good info and examples.

https://www.pbs.org/video/science-trek-simple-machines/

Quotes

“Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.” — Roger Lewin

Books (aff links):

And Everyone Shouted “Pull”!

https://amzn.to/2VACfEn

Pulleys:

Fort Building Time

https://amzn.to/2LUmjbR

Andrew Henry's Meadow

https://amzn.to/2VAkOE6

Pigs from A to Z

https://amzn.to/2E5DEbm

The Day the Babies Crawled Away

https://amzn.to/30jsxVK

A Big Ball of String

https://amzn.to/2YnITL6

Albert's Alphabet

https://amzn.to/2LCkIqD

The Fort on Fourth Street: A Story About Six Simple Machines

Learning Resources Simple Machine Set

https://amzn.to/2VD0xxu

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Master Naturalists May 03, 2019

Indiana Master Naturalists

https://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/6321.htm

ANROSP

https://anrosp.wildapricot.org/

NAI Region 4

http://nairegion4.weebly.com/

Book Pick (aff link):

Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv

https://amzn.to/2LmdUxl

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Kinderforest Apr 22, 2019

Kinderforest

--Merry Lea Kinderforest:

https://www.goshen.edu/merrylea/2018/05/kinderforest-in-review/

Nature Days in K-3 Classrooms

https://naaee.org/eepro/learning/webinars/nature-days-k-3-classrooms

What to Say Instead of “Be Careful” by Backwoods Mama

https://www.backwoodsmama.com/2018/02/stop-telling-kids-be-careful-and-what-to-say-instead.html

Quote:

“If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it. Perhaps this is what Thoreau had in mind when he said, “the more slowly trees grow at first, the sounder they are at the core, and I think the same is true of human beings.” -David Sobel, Beyond Ecophobia

Books (aff links):

A Forest Days Handbook by Eliza Minnucci

https://amzn.to/2PmDyAl

Nature Preschools and Forest Kindergartens: The Handbook for Outdoor Livingby David Sobel

https://amzn.to/2XpDP8o

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Eggs and Nests Apr 15, 2019

Life Cycle Sets:

Ladybug

Butterfly

Frog

Oak Grove Curiosities

Egg Collection

Nesting Time Scavenger Hunt

Beginning Birding Resources Podcast

Connecting Children to Animals

Books:

A Nest is Noisy

Burrows, Nests, and Lairs

https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2016/01/burrows-nests-lairs-book-review.html

Animal Architects

An Egg is Quiet

Mama Built a Little Nest

This posts contains affiliate links. Thanks for helping out at no extra cost to you.

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Playing with Fire Apr 06, 2019

Tim Gill’s benefit/risk assessment of fire: https://timrgill.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/woodcraft-fire-rba.pdf

Types of Risky Play:

https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/features/risky-play-for-children-why-we-should-let-kids-go-outside-and-then-get-out

Primitive skills: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQSPVzMq6f_KRb1XMhatepw

Playwork Principles: http://www.playwales.org.uk/eng/playworkprinciples

Solo stove: https://amzn.to/2IgKOfz

Kelly Kettle: https://amzn.to/2FWcweQ

Book Pick:

Claire Warden’s book, "Fascination of Fire"

https://amzn.to/2K8nLGH

(affiliate links may be present)

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Infants and Toddlers Mar 31, 2019

Quote:

The best play objects for babies are those which allow them to be as active and competent as possible at every stage of development. –Magda Gerber

Book Pick!

Loose Parts 2: Inspiring Play for Infants and ToddlersBy Miriam Beloglovosky and Jenna Daly

This follow up book looks specifically at the younger crowd. It focuses on different schema in children's play centered on object exploration, assembly exploration, instrumental exploration, locomotion, and action. Each schema topic has several subtopics, such as throwing, trajectory, pretending, constructing. Once again, great visual ideas throughout the book.

Choke tube (aff link)

https://amzn.to/2CN1jwn

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Infants and Toddlers Mar 31, 2019

Quote:

The best play objects for babies are those which allow them to be as active and competent as possible at every stage of development. –Magda Gerber

Book Pick!

Loose Parts 2: Inspiring Play for Infants and ToddlersBy Miriam Beloglovosky and Jenna Daly

This follow up book looks specifically at the younger crowd. It focuses on different schema in children's play centered on object exploration, assembly exploration, instrumental exploration, locomotion, and action. Each schema topic has several subtopics, such as throwing, trajectory, pretending, constructing. Once again, great visual ideas throughout the book.

Choke tube (aff link)

https://amzn.to/2CN1jwn

Loose Parts Play Facebook Page Loose Parts Play Facebook Group Inside Outside Michiana Facebook Page Loose Parts Nature Play Website

Celebrating a Natural Easter Mar 24, 2019

6 Plus Ways to Celebrate a Natural Easter:

https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2015/03/6-plus-ideas-to-celebrate-natural-easter.html

Natural Dyed Eggs:

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2013/03/natural-dyed-eggs.html

Easter Nature Walk:

https://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2015/04/easter-nature-walk.html

http://insideoutsidemichiana.blogspot.com/2013/03/an-easter-nature-walk_29.html

Easter Garden: