Acknowledgments Introduction: Why Loose Parts in Action? What's the Purpose of Loose Parts in Action? How to Use Loose Parts in Action Chapter 1: Loose Parts Overview Why Are Loose Parts So Appealing? Types of Loose Parts Benefits of Loose Parts Chapter 2: Preparing the Way Understand the Allure of Loose Parts Transform Your Thinking Chapter 3: Getting Started Determine Which Loose Parts to Add Identify Resources Enlist Help and Involve Families Quantity of Loose Parts Collection Phase Long-Term Storage Helpful Storage Facts Mindful Retaining, Storing, and Discarding Safety and Cleanliness Chapter 4: Preparing the Environment Clear the Way Exchange Materials Select Containers Display Loose Parts Chapter 5: Introducing Loose Parts Anticipate the Excitement Factor Introduce One Loose Part at a Time Start with Bigger, Durable Loose Parts Observe Children's Engagement Prepare Children Chapter 6: Facilitating Loose Parts Play Preparing the Environment Fostering Engagement Think Function Facilitating and Extending Learning Documenting Learning Chapter 7: Frequently Asked Questions How Do I Introduce Loose Parts? How Do I Store Loose Parts? What If Children Do Not Play with the Loose Parts? How Do I Encourage Cleanup? How Might I Stop Arguments over Loose Parts? What If Children Transport Loose Parts? How May I Prevent Disrespectful Use of Loose Parts? How Often Do I Need to Rotate Loose Parts? Are Loose Parts Put Away after Children Play or Left Out? How Do I Clean Loose Parts? Do Any Traditional Early Childhood Materials Remain in a Loose Parts Environment? How Do Loose Parts Environments Meet Environment Rating Scales Criteria? Appendix A: Family Letter Template Appendix B: Discovering Children's Interests Appendix C: Loose Parts Indoor Inventory List Appendix D: Loose Parts Outdoor Inventory List Appendix E: Loose Parts Outdoor Tidying Up and Maintenance Schedule.