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Learning, Play & Curriculum

The Power of Loose Parts Play

 Explore how open-ended resources support creativity, problem-solving and child-led learning. 

 

 Suitable for early years practitioners, childminders and anyone wanting to enhance play-based provision. 

 🕒 30 Minutes | 💻 100% Online | 📚 Self-Paced Learning | 🎓 Certificate Included | 🚀 Instant Access 

Why This Course Matters

 Loose parts play gives children the freedom to explore, experiment and think creatively. This course explores how open-ended resources can encourage curiosity, problem-solving, independence and deeper learning across all areas of the EYFS. 

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Course Details

 Everything you need to know before enrolling. 
What You'll Learn
 
By completing this course, you will be able to:
 

✔ Explain what loose parts play is and why it benefits children's learning.

✔ Identify a range of loose parts suitable for indoor and outdoor environments.

✔ Understand the practitioner's role in supporting child-led exploration.

✔ Use loose parts to promote creativity, communication and problem-solving.

✔ Reflect on your current provision and identify ways to enhance it.

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Course Overview

Throughout this course you'll explore:

🌿 Understanding Loose Parts Play

  • What loose parts are
  • How they differ from fixed resources

🧠 Supporting Learning & Development

  • Creativity and imagination
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Independence and resilience

👩‍🏫 The Role of the Practitioner

  • Observing rather than directing
  • Knowing when to step in and when to step back

📦 Choosing & Using Loose Parts

  • Indoor and outdoor resources
  • Safe, accessible and engaging provision

📚 Loose Parts and the EYFS

  • Characteristics of Effective Learning
  • Linking provision to child development

The course also includes interactive activities throughout and a short end-of-course quiz before you receive your certificate.

Who Is This Course For?
This course is ideal for:
 

👶 Baby Room Practitioners

🧸 Nursery Practitioners

🏡 Childminders

⭐ Room Leaders

👩‍💼 Nursery Managers

🎓 Early Years Students and Apprentices

Certificate
📜 Certificate Included
Upon successful completion of the course, learners will receive a downloadable certificate which can be used as evidence of professional development and training.
The certificate can be downloaded immediately after successful completion.
Course Features
📱 Mobile Friendly
💻 Fully Online Learning
📜 Certificate Included
🎯 Interactive Learning Activities
🤝 Learner Support Available
📅 12 Months Access
⏱ Learn at Your Own Pace
🚀 Instant Access After Enrolment
Why Choose Stepping Stones?
🌟 Designed Specifically for Childcare Professionals
📚 Practical, Workplace-Focused Learning
🎯 Easy-to-Follow Online Training
💻 Flexible Learning Around Your Schedule
🚀 Instant Access After Purchase
📜 Certificate Included
🤝 Friendly Learner Support
💷 Affordable Professional Development
🏡 Trusted by Early Years Professionals Across the UK

How It Works

Enrol Online

 Purchase the course and gain instant access to your learning dashboard. 

Complete the Training

 Work through the course at your own pace on desktop, tablet or mobile. 

Receive Your Certificate

 Successfully complete the assessment and download your certificate. 

Ready to Get Started?

 Discover how simple, open-ended resources can transform children's creativity, confidence and learning. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is loose parts play?

 Loose parts play uses open-ended materials that children can move, combine, redesign and explore in many different ways. Resources such as natural objects, recycled materials and everyday items encourage creativity, problem-solving and independent thinking. 

Do I need to buy expensive resources?

 No. Many loose parts can be collected from natural materials or everyday household and recycled items. The course explores simple, affordable ways to introduce loose parts play into your setting. 

Can I use loose parts play with different age groups?

 Yes. Loose parts can be adapted for babies, toddlers and preschool children. The course explains how to choose appropriate resources and create safe, engaging experiences for different stages of development. 

Will I receive a certificate?

 Yes. A downloadable certificate is available after successful completion. 

Is there a quiz?

 Yes. The course concludes with a knowledge quiz to reinforce learning before your certificate is awarded. 

Training for Your Whole Team?

This course is perfect for individual learners looking to develop their knowledge and skills.

If you're a nursery owner, manager, or organisation looking to train multiple staff members, explore our Pathways and Partnership solutions.

These programmes combine training, workforce development, compliance support, and progress tracking to help settings build confident, capable, and inspection-ready teams.

 Individual Course   Team Training & Pathways 
 ✅ Instant access   🏢 Designed for nurseries and childcare settings 
 ✅ Self-paced learning   📈 Support workforce development 
 ✅ Certificate included   📋 Improve compliance and training oversight 
 ✅ Ideal for individual professional development   👥 Train multiple staff members 
 £15  🤝 Ongoing support available