Architect Simon Nicholson, carefully studied landscapes and settings that form connections, and came up with the term "loose parts." According to Nicholson, we are all creative and it is the “loose parts” in an environment that empowers our creativity. This concept was adapted by many early childhood educators with the idea that loose parts create endless possibilities and inspire creativity for children. Read the article, Loose Parts: What does this mean?, and reflect on how your program’s spaces and materials inspire creativity by answering the following questions:

1. In what ways is the concept consistent with the experiences your program gives children and youth?
    
2. In what ways is the concept different from the experiences in your program?
    
3. What ideas could you help staff members use in your own program?
    
4. What steps will you take to make your own program’s spaces and materials more inspiring?
    

   Source: The Pennyslvania State University. (2019). Loose parts: What does this mean?. Penn State Extension Better Kid Care. http://bkc-od-media.vmhost.psu.edu/documents/TIPS1107.pdf