Treasure Baskets are a central part of Heuristic Play – the discovery and exploration of objects. The idea is to fill a basket with everyday and natural objects which offer a range of different textures and sensations to stimulate all five senses. The basket then comes out for short periods of time each day to allow the child to explore it without becoming bored. It is aimed at children from sitting age but needs supervision. Now, you could go out and find objects to fill a basket with and there are plenty of resources to help you decide what should be inside. If like me you are full of good intentions but never get around to doing things then you can buy ready filled baskets.
Last week we were tipped off about Contented Child who have been supplying treasure baskets to the nursery industry for years and now sell to the public as well. Their baskets contain a range of simple objects such as brushes, ribbons, loofahs, a velvet powder puff and bells to name a few. You can add your own objects such as pine cones, shells or clothes pegs. Treasure baskets are £30 for a basic basket and £55 for a full basket. I think a treasure basket would be especially nice as a gift for a child with older siblings as they could explore together.
The shop also sells beautiful mobiles and wooden toys made by Camphill.
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