3 ways to use creative crates in your setting by Hayley Winter

In an Early Years setting there’s always the fundamental resources which can be used in so many ways. For me, a set of creative crates are a must have! The crates are a versatile and engaging resource designed to inspire imaginative play and support key areas of early years development. Made from durable plastic with smooth, rounded edges for safety, these crates are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. They encourage children to explore, create, and collaborate, aligning with EYFS curriculum goals. 

Here are 4 dynamic ways to incorporate Creative Construction Crates into your outside area:

1. Obstacle Course Adventure

The most obvious way to use these crates is by using them in an obstacle course or balance course. But because these crates can be safely connected on top of each other, creating different heights, the possibilities are endless! Using the crates alongside planks of wood enables the children (once modelled) to be able to collaborate and build their own balance/ obstacle courses. Children can balance, climb, and navigate through the course, promoting gross motor development and physical coordination. This setup encourages risk-taking in a controlled environment, helping children build confidence and resilience. Additionally, it supports social development in their collaboration and in multiple occupations i have observed children timing themselves (maths), cheering each other on in a race and also offering a supporting hand to those more unsure. 

2. Large Loose Parts Play

Transform these crates into imaginative vehicles by adding further loose parts like tyres, steering wheels, and other accessories. Children can assemble a car, bus, train, or even a spaceship, fostering creativity and storytelling. This activity enhances motor skills, spatial awareness, and collaborative problem-solving as children work together to design and build their creations. It also supports expressive arts and design by allowing children to explore different materials and construction methods. This setup has been great in our learning about London when we ‘got the train’ there to visit the different landmarks (setup in different areas of the garden). We’ve also popped to the shop ‘in the car’ with a shopping list, incorporating writing lists, ‘sailed upon the sea’ and met a pirate who made us walk the plank! 

3. Creative Seating Spaces

These crates are so versatile as even the children once shown are able to carry, move and stack these safely themselves. Another idea to use these crates is to create a calmer area in using them for outside seating. 

• Simply, turn the crate over to use as a stool and lay out some stories for a cozy corner, supporting children’s literacy skills. 
• We have used these crates multiple times during our welly walks as a seating area for threading. Use long blades of glass or ribbon to thread and weave through the letters. 
• Setup a painting station using an acrylic board on the fence then using these crates as seats to paint outside, fostering creativity and self-expression. 

4. Den building 

Encourage children to use crates as the foundation for their own dens or hideouts. Combine them with fabric, sticks, pegs, or tarpaulins to create cozy shelters. Den building supports creativity, communication, and cooperative play, as children plan and construct their spaces together. It also gives them a sense of ownership and accomplishment, especially when they step inside their own hand-built refuge. Dens can become a reading nook, a pretend play zone, or even a quiet space for emotional regulation.

The Creative Construction Crates are a must-have resource for any EYFS classroom or setting. Whether children are building vehicles, navigating obstacle courses, constructing dens, or simply sitting and engaging in quiet activities, these crates offer endless opportunities for meaningful, hands-on learning. Their durability and versatility make them ideal for outdoor classrooms, where children can explore, experiment, and connect with the natural world. By incorporating these crates into your provision, you’re not only supporting key developmental skills but also encouraging curiosity, independence, and joy in learning. Let the building—and the imagination—begin!