This activity is easy to set up and uses everyday items you may already have at home or in an early learning setting.

To begin, gather a few kitchen tools such as a strainer, grater, or any object with holes that pipe cleaners can be threaded through. You will also need colourful pipe cleaners, googly eyes, sponges in different colours, feathers, and some wool.

Place all the materials in a basket or container so they are easily accessible. This encourages independence and allows children to make their own choices about which resources to use. Turn the strainer upside down and place it on the table next to the materials. Educators and families may choose to briefly demonstrate how the materials can be used to support children’s understanding, while still allowing for open-ended exploration.

Once everything is set up, invite the child to explore freely and create in their own way. The focus is on the process rather than the final product. There is no right or wrong outcome what matters most is supporting children to express themselves, make decisions, and feel confident in their creativity.

Learning Benefits

• Fine motor development: Threading pipe cleaners and manipulating small objects strengthens hand and finger muscles needed for writing and self-care tasks.

• Creativity and imagination: Open-ended materials encourage experimentation, design, and self-expression.

• Independence and decision-making: Choosing materials and directing play builds confidence and autonomy.

• Problem-solving skills: Children explore different ways to connect and arrange materials, supporting early critical thinking.

• Emotional expression: Creative play provides opportunities for children to express thoughts and feelings in a safe and meaningful way.
  
  

EYLF Links

This activity supports the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) outcomes:

• Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
  Children build confidence and autonomy as they make choices and express their ideas through creative play.
  
  

• Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
  Fine motor engagement supports physical wellbeing, while open-ended play encourages emotional expression and self-regulation.

• Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
  Children experiment, problem-solve, and persist as they explore materials and discover new possibilities.

• Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
  Children communicate ideas through their creations and conversations during play.

Educator Prompts and Questions

Educators and families can support learning by using open-ended questions such as:

What made you choose those materials?
How does it feel when you twist or thread the pipe cleaner?
What could you try next if it doesn’t stay in place?
Can you tell me about what you’re making?
What happens if you add another piece here?

These prompts encourage reflection, language development, and deeper engagement without directing the child’s play.

Have fun!