We select, organise and present materials in ways that are designed to
invite the children into explorations that are meaningful to them
In our selection of materials we emphasise high quality, open ended, natural and reuseable materials. The materials we use are rich and varied. They include an inspiring array of loose parts and found objects. They should create a multi sensory setting with surfaces which are smooth and rough, wet and dry, bright, translucent and transparent.
Our children are offered a wide range of artist quality mixed media materials, including clay, pastels, weaving materials, beadwork and natural materials in addition to canvases and beautiful papers for use with various types of paint and collage. Materials offer openings and pathways by which children can enter the world of knowledge.
Materials are tools to formulate, test, revise, represent and express ideas. They allow children and adults to interact. They spark childrens natural curiosity and are used as thinking tools to intrigue and foster wonderment, as they seek answers.
“When children interact with loose parts, they enter a world of “what if” that promotes the type of thinking that leads to problem solving and theoretical reasoning. Loose parts enhance children’s ability to think imaginatively and see solutions, and they bring a sense of adventure and excitement to childrens play” Lisa Daly