Use these line and pattern mats with loose parts (stones, counters, play dough, math manipulatives etc) for children to explore and make patterns.

These beautifully designed loose parts mats encourage exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning.

Perfect for early childhood classrooms, these mats support foundational math concepts in a sensory, hands-on way.They make it easy for children to explore early math concepts like pattern-making and also help to develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and the arts as a way of communicating ideas.

These Reggio inspired nature themed mats are the perfect base for your next play based learning invitation.

They feature real-life nature photos, making them visually engaging and the perfect complement to any classroom décor.

What's Included:

• 25 unique line mats featuring nature-themed backgrounds, designed for loose parts provocations.

• 60 loose parts ideas to inspire children’s creativity and exploration during play.

• 2 learning prompts that encourage pattern-making and reflective thinking.

• 4 student recording sheets to document children’s learning and creations.

• 2 teacher observation checklists to track student progress and development.

• Instructions for tile printing the mats, so you can adjust the print size to suit your needs.

• Document wallet label for easy organization and storage.

Key Features of this Loose Parts Resource

Nature-Themed Design: Each mat showcases stunning real-life nature photos, helping students connect with the environment as they learn.

Flexible Use: Ideal for math centers, fine motor activities, or morning tubs, these mats are versatile and can be used in many different classroom setups.

Play-Based Learning: Perfect for Reggio-inspired educators, the open-ended design encourages children to explore, experiment, and think critically while creating patterns and designs.

ACARA-Aligned: Linked to the Australian Curriculum Version 9, these mats support early math and visual arts concepts, making them a valuable tool for preschool to grade 2 classrooms.

What are the learning benefits?

Math Skills: Children develop pattern recognition, sorting, and early algebraic thinking by using loose parts to create and continue patterns.

Fine Motor Development: Handling small objects and arranging them into patterns builds hand strength and coordination.

Creativity and Problem-Solving: Open-ended exploration with loose parts allows children to use their imagination and engage in critical thinking.

Visual Arts: These mats also introduce basic visual arts concepts such as color, shape, and composition, allowing students to express their creativity.

Perfect for:

• Hands-on math centers

• Fine motor skills development

• Small group rotations

• Independent work

• Busy bags and morning tubs

• Soft start activities

• Early finishers

• Numeracy centers

• Assessment support

Whether used in small group rotations, independent work, or investigation areas, these mats provide an open-ended learning experience that sparks curiosity and discovery.

Linked to ACARA Content Descriptions

Foundation Level

AC9MFA01: Recognise, copy, and continue repeating patterns represented in different ways.

AC9AVAFD01: Use play, imagination, arts knowledge, processes, and skills to discover possibilities and develop ideas.

AC9AVAFC01: Create artworks that communicate ideas.

AC9AVAFP01: Share their artwork with audiences.

Year 1 and Year 2

AC9M1A01: Recognise, continue, and create pattern sequences with numbers, symbols, shapes, and objects.

AC9M1A02: Recognise, continue, and create repeating patterns with numbers, symbols, shapes, and objects.

AC9M2A01: Recognise, describe, and create additive patterns that increase or decrease by a constant amount.

AC9AVA2D01: Experiment and play with visual conventions, processes, and materials.

AC9AVA2C01: Use visual conventions and materials to create artworks.

AC9AVA2P01: Share artworks and/or visual arts practice in informal settings.

Why Teachers Love These Loose Parts Mats

• The real-life nature backgrounds create an immersive, calming environment for students.

• Versatile for a wide range of classroom activities, from math explorations to fine motor development.

• Easy to set up in small group or independent learning sessions, making it a convenient tool for busy educators.

• Aligned with ACARA, making it easier for teachers to integrate the mats into their curriculum and learning outcomes.

With this product, you can provide an engaging, hands-on learning experience for your students that supports both academic and creative development. Whether you’re focused on early math skills or fostering creative thinking, these loose parts mats are the perfect addition to any play-based learning classroom.

5 Star Reviews ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"The children enjoyed using a range of materials to follow the patterns on these mats.  They were engaged and it was such a simple yet effective fine motor activity.”

"Perfect addition to our loose parts center!  Kids have used as mats and also on the light table."

"I use these mats as a station for 'soft start,' first thing in the morning and my kindergarteners love it! The pictures are beautiful and there are so many different designs to choose from.”

"My students loved these activities and were completely engaged.”

“Great resource, my students love it and so easy to prep!”

SAVE MONEY and COVER MORE LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Grab the BUNDLE of 100 Loose Parts Play Mats HERE!