Objects spark ideas.

People build solutions.

Play makes it possible.

Think with Things is a playful, research-backed method for thinking better using THINGS already around you.

Buy the Playbook

Start with THINGS LAB Playbook

The practical, hands-on guide to the Think with Things method for turning everyday objects into tools for creativity, conversation, learning, reflection, and playful problem-solving.

Access THINGS LAB APP wherever you are. In browser or on mobile.

Free starter access • no payment required

Unlock Creative Potential Through Play

Play isn’t a break from thinking. It’s how thinking becomes visible.

With a few ordinary found objects and a simple prompt, people can slow down, notice more, and turn ideas into something they can see, touch, move, and share.

It supports educators, teams, parents, leaders, and curious thinkers to:

  • Slow conversations down just enough to think clearly

  • Make abstract ideas visible and shared

  • Include quieter voices and different ways of thinking

  • Move from talking about problems to building understanding

  • Create meaningful moments of reflection, creativity, and collaboration

This is not about being more creative; it’s about making thinking more accessible, more human, and more useful.

How it works

  1. Gather a few Found Objects (Buttons, keys, stones, LEGO, pinecones, nothing special required)

  2. Begin with a Simple Prompt
    A question or invitation designed to guide reflection, dialogue, and discovery.

  3. Explore and Build your Thinking with your Hands
    Patterns emerge. Meaning becomes visible. Next steps feel clearer.

Start small. Go deep.

You don’t need special materials.
You don’t need “artistic ability.”
You only need permission to think differently.

Whether you begin with:

You are already doing the work.

Why Objects Work (when paper & pencil or worksheets don’t)

When we move thinking out of our heads and into our hands:

  • Conversations become more equal

  • Complex ideas become clearer

  • Quieter voices are heard

  • Insight happens faster

Objects slow us down just enough to think better.

Not sure where to begin? Start here.

  • Want guided support → start with THINGS LAB (free)

  • Want offline tools → visit the shop

  • Want impact at scale → book a workshop

There’s no wrong entry point.

THINGS LAB — the app

Your creative mentor in your pocket.

Guided prompts, games, and mini-labs for:

  • Educators & Learners

  • Teams & Leaders

  • Parents & Carers

  • Anyone who thinks better by doing

Use it solo, in classrooms, in meetings, or at the kitchen table.

Try Things Lab

The Playbook & Card Deck

Offline tools for deep thinking and meaningful conversation.

Perfect for educators, facilitators and teams who want less talking and more making ideas visible.

Visit the Shop

In-person workshops

High-impact, hands-on experiences for organisations and teams.

Think with Things workshops are used by:

  • schools & universities

  • businesses & leadership teams

  • cultural organisations & community groups

Sessions are practical, playful, and surprisingly profound no prior “creativity confidence” required.

Explore Workshops

Meet Your Creative Guide and “The Guardian of the Idea”

Think with Things began in the world of education. Jules Gilleland, an educator and designer, saw firsthand how everyday objects could spark curiosity, creativity, and deeper learning for children. She designed playful experiences that turned traditional classrooms into spaces of exploration and wonder.

Over time, this approach grew beyond schools. Businesses, cultural institutions, and organisations began using Think with Things to unlock fresh ideas, solve problems, and strengthen collaboration. From classrooms to boardrooms, the method proved that the simple act of playing with objects could lead to powerful breakthroughs.

Now, through THINGS LAB, this experience is available to everyone. Whether you’re an educator seeking to transform your classroom, a business leader looking to foster innovation, or a parent hoping to spark creativity at home, THINGS LAB is your space to play, explore, and grow.

Join our THINGS LAB community and discover how everyday objects can lead to extraordinary ideas. (Learn more below)

FAQ’S

  • It’s easy! Download the app to access free games, courses, and creative prompts. If you’re ready for more, explore our membership options for deeper experiences and exclusive content.

  • Not at all! Think with Things is all about using what’s around you. Any object — from a paperclip to a coffee mug — can become a tool for thinking and exploring.

  • Definitely not! While Think with Things was born in education, it’s now used by teams, leaders, parents, and curious thinkers everywhere. No artistic skills required — just a willingness to play and explore.

  • THINGS LAB offers playful problem-solving tools that help teams think differently, solve challenges, and collaborate better. It’s perfect for sparking fresh ideas in brainstorming sessions, strategy meetings, and team-building activities.

  • We’ve got you covered! Many activities take just 10-20 minutes, making them perfect for a quick spark of creativity. Whether you’re at home, in the classroom, or in the office, you can fit playful thinking into your day.

5 Tips to Get Started

  • Choose one object within arm’s reach and ask yourself — What else could this be? Let your imagination wander and see what new ideas emerge.

  • Gather a mix of objects from different rooms or spaces. The more variety, the more unexpected your ideas will be!

  • When working through a problem, try asking playful "what if" questions. What if this stapler was a spaceship? What if this spoon solved your business challenge? Let the absurdity lead you to unexpected solutions.

  • Invite others to join in. Whether it’s your colleagues, students, or kids, shared perspectives lead to richer ideas. Set a timer and build on each other’s thoughts using objects as inspiration.

  • There are no wrong answers in Think with Things. Let go of perfection and follow your curiosity. Some of the best insights come from unexpected moments of play.

Bring Creativity Into Your Workplace!

From dynamic workshops and engaging presentations to unforgettable events and thoughtfully designed spaces, I bring fresh ideas and creative energy to your organisation. Let’s create something extraordinary together.

Contact me for a quote

What Happens When You Think with Things?

See how THINGS LAB has transformed the way

educators, leaders, and parents approach creativity.

Get Inspired!