Nursery World - EYFS Activities: Birth to two… Treasure basket play

Assemble a selection of natural materials for engagement and learning, says Penny Tassoni

Tsreasure basket play gives babies an opportunity to handle a wide range of everyday objects made from natural materials. In these times of technology, bright colours and manufactured toys, treasure basket play offers a simple but effective way of engaging babies while supporting many aspects of their development.

WHEN AND HOW

The basis of treasure basket play is a low basket filled with a wide range of objects made from natural materials. Ideally, you should put at least 30 different objects into a treasure basket, as a combination of objects provides some of the developmental benefits.

Choose objects that are made from metal, wood, shell, bone, fabric or other natural materials. Test each object to make sure that it is robust enough for a baby to handle and also that it is large enough not to be a choking hazard. Expect that all objects will be put in the mouth and so avoid items such as paper or cardboard that might disintegrate.

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