Over 200 colour pictures that I hope inspire you and provide ideas from myself and other educators from around New Zealand. Ideas on what can be incorporated from solid waste materials, and the home environment, into an early childhood centre's environment.

In my volunteer time as an early childhood teacher I have made over four hundred 'activity centres' to date. It is true, that one man's rubbish is another man's treasure. Sustainability is an important issue within the community and the education sector. I enjoy encouraging others to find creative ways to reuse waste. Sharing my new knowledge on topics of interest with my peers and colleagues can influence their teaching philosophy and their practice.

Have fun sourcing the materials and getting people on board to help. Improvise with the materials, observe how children use them and then adapt your ideas. Display resources in an orderly manner and make it look inviting for children to explore - so keep it simple.

Acknowledgements -- Forward -- Introduction -- Safety -- Activity Centre Project -- Finding Resources -- Help making equipment -- Engaging Fathers (Men) -- Websites -- Further Reading -- Curriculum links -- About the author.