What is a Montessori discovery basket?
A Montessori discovery basket (also called a treasure basket) is simply a collection of several interesting, “real world” objects for your baby or toddler to explore.
You can create simple themed baskets – think wooden objects, “things we found on the beach,” or everything red – using unique items from around your home. Because you don’t need anything fancy to create a discovery basket, this is a great go-to Montessori activity to try at home!
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Why is heuristic play important for your child’s development?
When your child explores the objects in a treasure basket, it’s called heuristic play. Basically, heuristic play is when children manipulate and experiment with interesting, everyday items without being told what to do or how to play. In other words, heuristic play is open-ended, child-led, and a great way for little ones to learn!
Heuristic play is good for your child’s development because…
- Open-ended play helps children develop creativity and imagination
- Interacting with a variety of objects helps little ones develop and refine their motor skills
- Exploring everyday objects helps children learn more about the world around them
- Heuristic play allows your child to use their senses to explore: How does this feel? What does it look like? Can I smell it? How does it taste? Does it make any sounds?
When you’re creating a discovery basket, the more interesting each item is, the better! Look for objects that make interesting sounds, have unique textures, or otherwise appeal to your child’s senses.
How to make a discovery basket at home
To create a Montessori discovery (treasure) basket at home, simply gather several interesting objects. Then, place them in an attractive basket or box for your child explore. That’s it!
Here are a few things to remember about creating a discovery basket for your child…
- Use natural objects (pinecones, stones, seashells) or everyday items (whisks, makeup brushes, fabric swatches) – NOT plastic toys
- In general, avoid using plastic materials – they’re less interesting to babies and toddlers than other materials, like wood, metal, or fabric
- Consider creating a themed treasure basket by collecting objects that have something in common (color, texture, material, size, shape, place of origin, etc.)
- Start by filling your discovery basket with just a few items at a time (5-7) to avoid overwhelming your little one
- Look for interesting sensory items – pay attention to how an object looks, feels, sounds, smells, and maybe even how it tastes!
- As per usual, be mindful of choking hazards – never leave your child unsupervised with small objects
What to put in a Montessori discovery basket
Treasure baskets invite children to explore a wide variety of interesting everyday objects. So almost anything is fair game! Here are a few ideas you could try…
- Paper/cardboard objects: Egg cartons, paint strips, birthday card, origami, cardboard tubes, envelope, tissue paper
- Wooden objects: Wooden block, hardwood floor sample, door wedge, wooden spoon, napkin ring, wood cookies
- Fabrics and textiles: Piece of fabric, bean bag, leather coin pouch, bag of lavender, leather swatch, ribbon, piece of fishing net, scarves
- Metal objects: Whisk, bells, measuring spoons, compact mirror, keychain, bracelet, keys, zipper, large gear, tools
- Natural objects: Pinecone, large stone, lemon, stick, leaf, flower, seashell, pumice stone, feather
- Other objects: Small mirror, portable light switch, empty vanilla extract or spice bottles, makeup brush, hair rollers, rubber ball, paintbrush, salt and pepper shakers, large buttons, and more!
How to use a discovery basket at home
Using a treasure basket at home with your little one isn’t challenging. Once you’ve assembled your discovery basket, you’ve already done the hardest part!
However, there are a few guidelines you should follow to help your child get the most out of their discovery basket…
- Create a calm, distraction-free environment – clutter, TV, or other distractions will make it more difficult for your child to engage in productive, open-ended play
- Store your discovery basket out of sight when your little one isn’t using it – this will help keep the activity fresh and interesting for your child
- Set aside enough uninterrupted time for meaningful exploration – 15-30 minutes is a good place to start, but no worries if your little one spends more or less time than that playing with their discovery basket
- Let your child explore independently – you can stay nearby, but avoid interfering with or guiding your little one’s play
- When it seems like your child is starting to get bored, don’t be afraid to change things up with new materials or a new basket theme to keep your little one engaged
Here are some more discovery basket ideas to try…
Shop the best discovery basket materials for your little one…
You probably already have everything you need at home to make a discovery basket your little one will love. So don’t forget to shop your home first. But if you don’t have a ton of extra stuff lying around your house to toss in a basket for your child’s playtime – or you’re looking for ways to keep your child’s treasure basket fresh and exciting – here are a few fun ideas…
The magic of Montessori discovery baskets
Discovery baskets are a great way for your little one to play, explore, and learn. Even better? You don’t need anything special to put together an awesome treasure basket for your toddler. Just a few interesting everyday objects that engage your child’s senses – and, of course, their curiousity.
Happy learning!
♥ Meg
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