Treasure baskets are tools to invoke heuristic play. A treasure basket is composed of natural found objects. The child then explores the objects using the senses, without any adult help. Experts in heuristic play suggest starting when a child is able to sit up on his/her own. Luke has just started doing this, so I thought I would put together a treasure basket for him. He is not too interested, yet, so I have just been putting it in front of him about once or twice a day.
Lots of moms out there make 'themed' treasure baskets, including 'circular baskets', 'metal baskets', 'beach baskets', 'nature baskets'. My first treasure basket includes items I had laying around the house.
The items included in my basket:
- wooden spoon
- shell
- cork
- handmade sensory bottle with sprinkles
- cookie cutters
- piece of fleece
- wooden bangle
- fabric bunny
Even though heuristic play is supposed to be done without adult intervention, I still think it's vital for adult supervision, especially when children are very young. Here are some of pictures of Luke with his little treasure basket.
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| luke loves this bottle, it is definitely his favorite 'toy of the moment' right now |
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| as you can see, luke explores with his mouth all. the. time. |
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