Loose Parts Policy

The benefits of loose parts play have been noted in many different articles and papers, and these include creative thinking, both fine and gross motor skills, social skills and problem solving. As such, loose parts play has become an important component to offer for many early years providers.

The information contained in other pages on this website (Loose Parts Play, More on Loose Parts) feature examples of what loose parts may be and how to facilitate loose parts play. 

If you are hoping to embed loose parts in your centre, or if you already do, it is important to create a loose parts policy. This could be as an addition to the Active Play policy that is required as part of the Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Active Play or as a stand alone policy. 

The information that should be included in this type of policy includes:

• Rationale for the type of play with a definition as to what it is and how you intend to achieve it.
• How the staff at your centre will adhere to the principles of loose parts play, as well as the mitigation strategies to ensure the loose parts are safe to play with.
• The responsibilities of the children who will engage in the play, such as identifying possible hazards with the loose parts.

For an example of a loose parts policy, take a look at the Canadian Public Health Association’s document on a Loose Parts Policy.