I use many materials in my home care. blocks, games, paints, dramtic play clothes, multi cutural dolls, books, writing materials etc. I encourage use of the materials by the children and provide age appropriate materials to explore. I allow the childen to find new and creative uses for the materials and try to avoid telling them how they should be used. Divergent use of materials /toys/loose parts are always encouraged. And I enjoy seeing the many creative ways the children come up with.