Fibre and textiles

Fibre and textiles provide children of all ages with a rich, tactile experience. They make wonderful visual arts materials and loose parts.

Children love exploring boxes of fabrics and ribbons, examining each piece carefully and searching for the shiniest, most vibrant colours.

Introducing children to fibres can be a mind-opening experience. They can start to understand what common products, like clothes and curtains, are made from.

The educational benefits of fibre and textiles include sensory awareness.

EYLF learning outcomes

Fibre and textiles aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework as it is a material (4.4).

Learning opportunities

Explore types of fibre and textiles

Children can learn about different types of fibre and textiles:

• fabric
• string
• thread.

Learning experiences

Make things from fibre and textiles

Children can use fibre and textiles to make dream catchers or mobiles. Fibre and textiles is used to make soft toys.

Learn to sew

Family and community connections

Ask families about handicrafts

Ask families if they sew or knit their own clothes. Invite them to talk to the children and show garments they have made.