Metal Loose Parts! Our last type of Loose Parts in this blog series. If there’s one Loose Part that really engages every child through building, creating, inventing, exploring, and more, it’s metal!
From magnet exploration, to big tin cans that clink to make music, to keys and door knobs that become a unique story in children’s pretend play, to so much more, metal is that awe-inspiring material that calls us to tinker and explore.
Metal Loose Parts
Can lids! Love these! Versatile for any area and FREE!
Washers saved and collected from a family toolbox.
Bottle caps are another great recyclable item. (Good idea to wash these before use and be mindful of very sharp edges)
Nuts and bolts! Add a strong magnet to these and let them explore and tinker!
Candle Holders found at local thrift store.
License Plates! Who would have thought? Great Loose Part!
Metal Springs! My boys created some creative robots with these!
Old Door Knobs donated from locksmith!
Add some Metal Keys and let the exploring and storytelling begin.
Metal Plates found at a local thrift store.
List of Metal Loose Parts
- Nuts and Bolts
- Washers
- Tin Foil
- Old Gadgets
- Bangles
- Curtain Rings
- Muffin Tins
- Potato Mashers
- Gutters
- Magnets
- Keys
- Bottle Tabs
- License Plates
- Forks and Spoons
- Links
- Metal Lids
- Thimbles
- Silver Beads
- Soda Can Tabs
- Thread Spools
- Door Knobs
- Discs
- Hair Clips
- Candle Sticks
- Tubing
- Cans
Examples of Metal Loose Parts in the Classroom
Metal cans used in self-portrait creations! Love the metal elements!
A chandelier made from old kitchen utensils! I bet the children had fun attaching!
Metal mixed with other Loose Parts for a castle building provocation.
Woodworking!! Yes! With guidance, this becomes such a powerful exploration for children.
Creating vehicles with metal Loose Parts.
Loose Parts! So many inspiring, recyclable, and unique parts that can aide in children's creativity and discovery!
BONUS! Download the reusable Loose Parts Letter to spark families ideas for collecting reusable Loose Parts!
In case you missed the other 6 Types of Loose Parts blogs in this series, no worries. I included that all right here for you!
Using this book with preschool teachers who are interested in adding loose parts to their curriculum. Thank you so much !
You are most welcome, Sue! I can’t wait to see what unfolds in the classrooms. Keep us posted and share your discoveries with us!