About Us

---

Loose parts play involves providing children with a variety of open-ended, moveable objects (loose parts) that they can use and manipulate during play. 

These items can be anything from sticks and stones to fabric scrapes and containers. The key is that they can be combined and used in multiple ways. 

The benefits of loose parts play are numerous. It encourages creativity as children can use the items in imaginative ways, fostering problem solving skills. 

It also promotes fine and gross motor skills as they manipulate and handle different objects. Additionally, it enhances social skills through collaboration during shared play. 

Overall, loose parts play is versatile and engaging way for children to learn and develop various skills. 

Our play-based curriculum is an educational approach that centers around play as the primary vehicle for learning.

 It recognizes that play is a natural and essential way for children to explore, make sense of the world, and develop various skills.

 Instead of a rigid structure, play-based curriculum allows children to engage in activities driven by their interest and curiosity. 

  We follow the direction of the child and set up provocations to further their investigations. 

I use the Wunderled curriculum for my infant/toddler program. Wunderled began in 2010 by Sally Haughey who draws inspiration  from many approaches like Waldorf and Reggio Emilia. 

The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy that originated in Italy. It emphasizes a child-centered and experimental learning environment. In this approach, teachers act as facilitators, encouraging exploration and collaboration among children.

 Some examples of Reggio in the classroom: loose parts, blocks, digging and pouring in a sensory table. Experimenting with art and using  several materials. Discovering insects, leaves, flowers, and sorting and collecting natural elements they find in the play yard. 

Reggio Emilia places a strong emphasis on open-ended materials that allow for imaginative play and creative expression. We use a variety of different loose parts such as fabric scrapes, buttons, shells, and feathers. 

Reggio classrooms often incorporate natural elements to connect with the environment. We bring nature indoors by including plants, branches, stones, and flowers. 

We love to use what we have vs buying toys that can only be used for one intention of play. Recyclables are used often and any other used material we can get our hands on. This also gives the children a connection to every day things that are used in their own homes. 

 Overall, it seeks to cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity in children, prompting their holistic development.