The Magic of Reuse Materials
Providing essentially open play possibilities begins with consideration of the kinds, variety and quantity of play materials which can encourage design and structural thinking and creative options.
What is a Reusable Resources Center?
Creative and energetic teachers have been collecting and reusing scrounged materials for years. Teachers know that children develop a unique sense of self-worth from being creative. However, creative hands-on activities are often hampered by a lack of good play materials. Yet, within every community there is a wealth of material resources that remains untouched. This discovery has led to an exciting partnership that has businesses, schools and parents working together to help our children and our environment.
Local businesses and industries are donating a continuous supply of free play materials, referred to as “impaired assets,” that they no longer want. Reusable resource centers receive these overruns, rejects and obsolete supplies, including such diverse materials as Mylar, foam, fabric, felt, wood, wire, tile, plastic pieces, and paper. A growing network of over 100 centers then make these materials available for teachers to promote constructive play and enhance our children’s educational experiences.
