Treasure basket
A simple sensory treasure hunt - fill a basket with interesting household objects for your baby or toddler to explore through touch, sight, and sound.
A treasure basket is an easy way to provide a rich sensory experience using everyday objects. Gather safe, varied items like wooden spoons, soft fabric, measuring cups, or crinkly paper, and let your little one explore at their own pace. No rules, no instructions - just open-ended discovery. Perfect for independent play while you sit nearby, sipping your (hopefully still warm) coffee!
Materials
Prep
Fill a basket with a variety of safe, baby-friendly objects. Think: soft fabrics, wooden spoons, crinkly paper, cups, brushes.
Play
Place the treasure basket in front of your child and let them explore freely. They might pick things up, shake them, mouth them, or dump them out—it's all part of the fun. Refresh the items every so often to keep it exciting!
Extend
Themed treasures: Try a nature-themed basket with pinecones and smooth stones or a kitchen one with wooden spoons and silicone muffin cups.
Sensory basket: Include items that make noise, or have interesting textures or scents. E.g. a bottle with sprinkles in it, or a fabric pouch with a gentle scent like vanilla or cinnamon.
Scarf surprise: Drape a lightweight scarf over the basket for your baby to pull away and reveal the treasures.
