21/04/2026
Over the past couple of months the tamariki here at Bream Bay Kindergarten have been busy diving into loose parts and the results are incredible. From heavy-duty crates and long planks to tyres and pipes, these "open-ended" treasures are the ultimate tools for learning.
Watching them work together is the best part. When children use large loose parts, they aren't just playing; they are:
Problem-solving: "How do we make this bridge steady?"
Collaborating: Communicating and negotiating to build epic forts and obstacle courses.
Developing Physical Strength: Lifting, hauling, and balancing to build those gross motor skills.
Being Creative: One minute it’s a fishing boat, the next it's a monster truck or an army tank.
There are no "right" ways to use these items—only endless possibilities. It is wonderful to see our tamariki so engaged, confident, and full of mahi tahi (teamwork).
Check out some of our master builders in action....
Calling all creators, builders, and backyard hoarders!
Our tamariki are on a mission to build, climb, and create, but we need your help to grow our 'Large Loose Parts' collection.
Loose parts aren't "toys" in the traditional sense—they are open-ended treasures like crates, planks, and tyres that let children lead their own learning. To keep the inspiration flowing, we are looking for donations of sturdy, safe items that have reached the end of their original life but are ready for a new adventure!
We are currently looking for:
Wooden items: Wooden crates (in good condition), log rounds, or large cable drums.
Industrial bits: PVC pipes, gutters, or large plastic conduits.
Containers: Bread crates or milk crates
Outdoor gear: Thick ropes, go cart tyres or burlap sacks.
If you have any of these items taking up space in your garage or worksite, we would love to take them off your hands! Please ensure items are clean and free of sharp edges, nails, or splinters.
We are more than happy to come and collect any items if needed. Please feel free to send us through some photos if you aren't sure whether it's what we need.
