Loose Parts & Sorting Tray Kit

The Loose Parts & Sorting Tray Kit is a rich, natural resource set designed to support sensory exploration, early maths, and STEM-based inquiry in early childhood settings. This versatile kit includes 60 grey and 60 white felt pieces (3 x PAP605 and 3 x PNP606), a selection of naturally sourced stone pebbles (PNP054 and PNP057), and a large unvarnished wooden sorting tray (CXS18001) with 16 rectangular compartments. Each item in the set brings unique textures, shapes and natural tones, creating an engaging invitation to sort, classify, count, and explore.

The sorting tray, crafted from untreated plywood, provides a neutral and calming base that encourages focused investigation. Children can explore the felt pieces and pebbles using their senses, developing foundational concepts in mathematics and science while also enhancing fine motor control and creative thinking. As many components are hand-made or naturally found, each piece varies in shape, size, and colour, supporting visual discrimination and real-world observation.

Kit Includes:

• 3 x PAP605 - Loose Parts White Felt Balls
• 3 x PAP606 - Loose Parts Grey Felt Balls
• 1 x PAP054 - River Pebbles White Granite
• 1 x PNP057 - River Pebbles Black Granite
• 1 x CXS18001 - Large Sorting Tray

Educational Benefits:

• Strengthens classification, sorting, and pattern-making skills essential for early maths.
• Encourages scientific observation and comparison using natural and tactile materials.
• Enhances fine motor skills through careful handling and placement of loose parts.
• Promotes creativity and open-ended thinking during sensory-based exploration.

Classroom Activity Ideas:

• Create pattern sequences using alternating colours and textures in the tray’s compartments.
• Use the pebbles and felt pieces to group items by shape, size, or material properties.
• Encourage children to design their own sorting categories and explain their choices.
• Introduce early numeracy by using the materials to practise counting, matching, and number recognition.

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages 3+ years
• Sorting tray measures 40(W) x 40(D) x 8(H) cm
• Each of the 16 tray compartments measures approx. 8.5(W) x 8.5(D) cm
• Contents include 60 grey and 60 white felt pieces, natural stone pebbles, and 1 sorting tray
• Contents may vary; stones and felt pieces are hand-made or naturally sourced and will vary in colour, size and shape
• For indoor use only; not suitable for outdoor environments
• Supervision recommended during use