What is treasure basket play?

You may have come across the term “treasure baskets” or “treasure basket play”. Here, we look at what they are and the potential benefits they offer your baby.

What is a treasure basket?  

Treasure baskets are usually based in shallow trays or baskets, and are filled with natural, found and household items for young children to explore.  

Anything that captures your baby’s interest can be used in treasure baskets. You could pop in wooden or metal spoons or spatulas, dish sponges, textured cloths and brushes from your household.  

Make sure anything you use is safe for your baby to explore – they will put everything in their mouth so check for small parts.  

Putting together a themed basket 

Many people like making themed treasure baskets for their children. You may want to fill your baby's basket with scented items such as fruit, flowers and fresh herbs, reflective items like mirrors, shiny bowls and spoons, or items of similar or contrasting textures to touch and feel. 

Why have a treasure basket? 

There are many benefits to playing with treasure baskets. It supports gross motor skills, as your baby is encouraged to sit up on their own for longer periods and stretch and reach for the objects that interest them.  

Treasure basket play is also great for fine motor development, as your baby will be handling real-life objects of a variety of shapes, sizes and textures, and exploring them using their hands and fingers.  

Also, treasure baskets support independent play for babies. When engaged with a treasure basket, they will be making choices about which items to explore, and which properties they will experiment with. They might decide to bang objects together, observe their reflection in shiny objects, or try and alter and change things. They are in control of their own play during this time.  

As with any play that involves small parts, please ensure that your baby is supervised at all times when engaged in treasure basket play!