Loose Parts!

We now have tree cookies and I've collected some bamboo poles.  In case you've missed the conversation, beginning last spring many of us have been talking about re-evaluating the outdoor play space and making the space outside the playground fence (not the big fence) full of activities and opportunities for children to expand their imaginations.  We figured some tree cookies would be easy to come by - ha!  Took some time, but we've got some.  Here's some kids playing with tree cookies.

I think the area just outside the gate of the big playground would be a great place to start.  I think these items will need to be brought out like the riding toys.  What do you guys think?

And while your considering it.  Check out these other outdoor play spaces.  

Simple mud pie kitchen!

 Just add a little fabric.

 I'm pretty sure they are actually cooking.  Mixing up your ingredients outside is a great way to avoid a large clean-up.

Hanging objects create a sound experience.