Metal Loose Parts! If there’s one Loose Part that really engages every child through building, creating, inventing, exploring, and more, it’s metal!
From magnet exploration to big tin cans that clink to make music, to keys and door knobs that become a unique story in children’s pretend play, to so much more, metal is that awe-inspiring material that calls us to tinker and explore.
Let’s explore some captivating Metal Loose Parts examples.
If you’re just beginning to explore loose parts, consider diving into our extensive guide How to Get Started with Loose Parts.
Metal Loose Parts
Can lids! Love these! Versatile for any area and FREE!
Washers saved and collected from a family toolbox.
Bottle caps are another great recyclable item. (Good idea to wash these before use and be mindful of very sharp edges)
Nuts and bolts! Add a strong magnet to these and let them explore and tinker!
Candle Holders found at local thrift store.
License Plates! Who would have thought? Great Loose Part!
Metal Springs! My boys created some creative robots with these!
Old Door Knobs donated from locksmith!
Add some Metal Keys and let the exploring and storytelling begin.
Metal Plates found at a local thrift store.
List of Metal Loose Parts
- Nuts and Bolts
- Washers
- Tin Foil
- Old Gadgets
- Bangles
- Curtain Rings
- Muffin Tins
- Potato Mashers
- Gutters
- Magnets
- Keys
- Bottle Tabs
- License Plates
- Forks and Spoons
- Links
- Metal Lids
- Thimbles
- Silver Beads
- Soda Can Tabs
- Thread Spools
- Door Knobs
- Discs
- Hair Clips
- Candle Sticks
- Tubing
- Cans
Examples of Metal Loose Parts in the Classroom
Metal cans used in self-portrait creations! Love the metal elements!
A chandelier made from old kitchen utensils! I bet the children had fun attaching!
Metal mixed with other Loose Parts for a castle building provocation.
Woodworking!! Yes! With guidance, this becomes such a powerful exploration for children.
Creating vehicles with metal Loose Parts.
Loose Parts! So many inspiring, recyclable, and unique parts that can aid in children’s creativity and discovery!
For more information on this topic, don’t miss our in-depth guide How to Get Started with Loose Parts.
BONUS! Download our Loose Parts Wish List and start collecting! ↓
In case you missed the other 6 Types of Loose Parts blog posts, no worries. I included that all right here for you!
- Nature-Based Loose Parts
- Plastic Loose Parts
- Glass & Ceramic Loose Parts
- Fabric, Fiber & Paper Loose Parts
- Wood Reuse Loose Parts
- Packaging Loose Parts
What Loose Parts are YOU playing with?
What have your children inevstigate through metal loose parts?
References
Daly, Lisa; Beloglovsky, Miriam (2014). Loose Parts: Inspiring Play in Young Children. Redleaf Press.
Daly, Lisa; Beloglovsky, Miriam (2016). Loose Parts 2: Inspiring Play with Infants and Toddlers. Redleaf Press.
Sheridan, Mary; Howard, Justine; Alderson, Dawn (2011). Play in Early Childhood: From Birth to Six Years. Routledge.
