If you have never come across a treasure basket before, it is essentially a basket full of household items (some you may already have lying around) that babies will find interesting.
Parenting on Female First
Treasure baskets are designed for babies (even if they are still a bit wobbly!) who are sitting but not yet at the walking stage. You may come across them in baby explorer groups in your local area- but you can also make one for use at home.
What do you need?
Choose a low-level basket or container and fill it with household objects and items made from natural materials like wood and metal- not plastic- that vary in weight, size, texture, colour smell and taste.
Objects to consider might include:
Wood
Curtain rings
Napkin rings
Bowls
Cotton reels
Spoons
Dolly pegs
Bracelets
Egg cups
Spatulas
Small rolling pins
Metal
Egg whisks
A triangle
Sieves
Bangles
Small tins
Tea strainers
Spoons
Chains
Bowl
Potato mashers
Natural objects
Fir cones
Feathers
Loofahs
Pieces of fur
Shaving brushes
A ball of wool
Sponges
Corks
Pumice stones
Other objects might include rubber gloves and small boxes.
Once you’ve filled it, all you need to do is place your baby next to the basket and let them familiarise themselves with it and the items inside.
It encourages your little one to reach for objects and let them explore and investigate each item.
Treasure baskets have many benefits for your baby- they can support brain development, stimulate their senses, develop concentration, motor skills and their imaginations. They also indulge their curiosities and encourage your child to make connections, compare and classify items. So, they are well worth putting together at little cost too!
The key is to let your baby pick things from the basket themselves rather than choosing objects for them. This way you can find out what appeals to them most- is it something shiny or an item that makes noise?
Make sure you sit near your baby and offer them reassurance through eye contact and gestures to show them that they are safe but also that you are interested in what they have chosen to select.
The important thing to note is that babies can choke on small items, so it’s important you watch your baby at all times while they are playing with their treasure basket to avoid choking.
Tagged in Babies