Plastic toys have been banned from the premises of a nursery as teachers try to protect the environment and get children used to grown-up tools.
Staff at Gryffe Manor nursery in Houston, Renfrewshire, have cleared out typical toddler playthings and replaced them with pots and pans.
Teachers have said the move will help make the kids in their care more imaginative and creative.
Nursery manager Alison Thomson said: “We’re teaching the children about reducing waste, reusing and recycling – but in a fun way.
“Teaching them about their environment and reducing the plastic we have is part of that.
“We’ve stopped buying typical educational toys that tell children what they should learn. Instead, we give them potato mashers, garlic presses and building materials.”
The nursery also gives children real hammers to use.
Alison said: “We always have health and safety in mind. It’s amazing – children know what to do. They’re very careful.”
The approach was first used in the 18th century by Friedrich Froebel, a German educationalist.
He believed that play is the highest level of child development and they should be given freedom to choose, explore and imagine.
Alison added: “We don’t give children half the credit they deserve about how clever and resourceful they can be. This type of play encourages them to problem solve.
“We had new houses being built across the road and asked for piping and guttering. We also use tree stumps, wooden blocks, sticks, ropes and tyres.”
Her theory is supported by the body set up to make sure children have proper opportunities to play.
Play Scotland boss Marguerite Hunter Blair said: “We welcome the development away from restricted play, and reducing waste. But you need a catalyst, the attractor, whether it’s bright plastic or a Barbie doll.
“It’s all about getting children to play and use their creativity.
Psychologist Mike Hughesman said: “Children will make their own choices and brightly coloured plastic toys are very attractive. But I love what the nursery is doing.”
