Loose Parts, Junk and Playing

Wednesday October 9, 2019

As playworkers we love all things play and that has to include ‘Loose parts’. Loose Parts theory simply states: 'In any environment, both the degree of inventiveness and creativity, and the possibility of discovery, are directly proportional to the number and kind of variables in it.' (Simon Nicholson, 1971)

For those that don’t know, ‘Loose Parts’ is a catch all term essentially referring to ‘stuff’’, preferably a real mixture of stuff, natural stuff and manufactured stuff, often scrap left over after its useful life has run its course. Importantly these ‘Loose Parts’ are non-directional in nature, unlike most toys and manufactured play equipment and that’s their magic. It’s the very non-directional nature of loose parts that leaves the determination of its purpose to the playing child/ren and as a result there is increased likelihood of inventiveness, creativity, deeper immersion, cooperation and communication and cognition, but perhaps most importantly, pleasure, fun, motivation and personal reward. Here is a link to an article that Ben originally wrote for The Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years in 2016 but was reproduced by Child in the City in 2017 and is included in the Play Wales Loose Parts Tool Kit

We also wrote an info-sheet titled ‘Creativity and Tool Use in Play Settings’ this paper focusses on the role of playworkers and those that might be considered to be playworking it explores issues influencing the provision of quality play environments, the materials props and behavioural attributes that might make a place fit for play and the benefits to children of having quality play environments supported by play focused practitioners.

Play Wales also provide a whole host of other excellent resources that you can find here.

You can read The Theory of Loose Parts in Simon Nicholson’s own words here.

" Working with Ludicology on the play designs for Mereside, Blackpool was an important component of the project. Mike and Ben are a pleasure to work with, their experience and knowledge of play related issues and design is invaluable and unique. They are also both skilful workshop leaders and – importantly – fun to work with. "Nils Norman, Artist working across public art, architecture & urban planning

" Play Scotland was delighted to welcome Mike Barclay & Ben Tawil to Scotland recently to talk about their work measuring Play Sufficiency. The aim is clear-more children playing together more of the time! Ben and Mike offer simple steps to meet the ongoing challenge of improving the ability of adults to identify and develop ways in which they can better respond to children’s right to play. Uplifting and enthusiastic presenters, we had fantastic feedback on this inspirational presentation. "Marguerite Hunter Blair, CEO Play Scotland

" I don’t know what was going on in there but you could hear them all laughing at the other end of the building! (feedback from Managing Risk in Play training) "Sharon McCluskie, Information & Communications, Play Scotland

" Brymbo Heritage Trust worked with the Ludicology team across 2018 and 2019 to explore ways of incorporating play and playfulness within an industrial heritage visitor attraction and community park. They made us laugh, helped us rediscover the child within us (easier for some of us!) and see our proposals through children’s eyes. As a result we have a far more inclusive set of plans going forward, and a stronger team to boot. "Gary Brown, CEO Brymbo Heritage Trust

" Ludicology's research and development work on the Welsh Play Sufficiency Duty is fantastic. They bring insider knowledge, experience of real and innovative actions, and a conceptual approach focusing on conditions that support children's play. Plus, they are wonderful to work with, combining commitment, energy, creativity and playfulness. "Dr Wendy Russell

" Mike and Ben take a rigorous approach to play which at ZCD Architects we find extremely valuable. Their work is transformative, accessible and transferable and has helped us to position children’s play more strategically in terms of planning and design in London. "Dinah Bornat, co-founder of ZCD Architects and a Design Advocate for the Mayor of London

" Thanks to Ludicology for providing supervision and mentoring sessions for us at The Land. The service provided is truly excellent and includes the opportunity to reflect, test out new strategies and manage pressures - not forgetting the moral support and the assistance with staff and policy development. When it comes to play and playwork these guys have all the answers! Plus, they're pretty cool to be around 🙂 "Claire Pugh, ‘The Land’, Plas Madoc

" Mike and Ben have a particular knack for engaging with children to understand their needs for play and independence in the built environment. These practical skills are complimented by a rigorous academic approach to analysing data and reporting. "Helen Forman, Urban Design Manager, Leeds

" I just want to say the biggest thank to Ben and Mike for bringing their expertise and general magic to our Play-Work exhibition, right from planning stage and install, bringing all the stakeholders together, designing and building the space, advice throughout and for their involvement in the end of exhibition conference. It’s been a privilege working with them both and I’m looking forward to more shared projects in the future. "Jo Marsh, Creative Director at Tŷ Pawb

" Mike and Ben were great to work with. Having their more independent review of what was happening in terms of play at zoo bit, before and after our major campaign interventions, was really valuable in supporting us to develop our approach. Their supportive yet challenging approach also enabled us to work through what we needed to document about our approach to play, to ensure we could drive it forwards in the longer term. "Charlotte Smith, Head of Discovery and Learning at Chester Zoo

" The Loose Parts Play in Schools training inspired us. This is such an exciting venture for us and something that I strongly believe will transform behaviour on the playground, as well as improving the resilience, problem-solving skills and wellbeing of our children and staff. Ludicology training is highly recommended to all colleagues. At Gwaunfarren, this loose parts approach will play a pivotal role in the day to day running of the school. "Louise Bibby, Head Teacher at Gwaunfarren Primary School

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