Sensory Play: Treasure Baskets for Babies and Toddlers

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We were gifted with a treasure basket when Jack was 6-months-old and it has been one if his most loved and played-with gifts.

Treasure baskets are a sensory delight for little ones and are often found in Montesorri infant-toddler programs.

The best thing about them is that they can be put together with items from around the home and help develop the skills and abilities of babies aged 6 months and onwards.

Objects inside are natural and non-toxic, interesting to look at, shake and taste. They encourage independent play and nurture their need to explore and discover.

The longevity of treasure baskets mean they can really grow with your child. For example, George who is now 10-months old loves a treasure basket that is filled with things he can rattle, while my inquisitive three-year-old enjoys our Richard Rothbard carved wooden puzzle box we purchased from an art gallery in New York.

If you would like to create one, it is recommended that you use items that are made of:

• Wood
• Fabric and Leather
• Metal
• Natural

These are some of the objects in our Treasure Basket:

• Colourful scarf
• Soft colourful ball
• Wooden ball (but not so small they can swallow it)
• Pastry brush
• Whisk
• Tin with a lid
• A tin containing a chain so they can shake it
• Wooden bracelet
• Shell
• Compact mirror
• A jug
• Spoons of various shapes and sizes
• Pine cones
• Ice cream scoop
• Rattle

You may want to adapt the box depending on the age of your child, however, here are a few things to avoid:

• Plastic
• Small objects
• Objects with sharp edges
• Objects that are tethered or can fall apart easily
• Anything that can be harmful if chewed on

You can find most of the items around the home, although if you scour charity shops then you may discover some hidden gems.

Have you ever put together a treasure basket?