SE T2.01Treasure Basket
A low, sturdy basket of natural and household objects that an infant who sits steadily chooses from, handles, and mouths, while an adult sits nearby and does not direct.
Safety
- Every object must not fit the small parts test cylinder (1.25 in. × 2.25 in.); test each new object and recheck every object before each session, because chewing and wear can break off small pieces.
- Any ball must be at least 5 cm across; balls under 1.75 in. (4.4 cm) are banned for children under 3 by US federal rule (16 C.F.R. 1500.18(a)(17)).
- No objects with cords, strings, straps, ribbons, or chains.
- No glass, no sharp edges or splinters, no loose bristles, and no paint unless it is known to be non-toxic.
- Wash or wipe objects after each session and let them dry; replace fruit and natural items as soon as they soften, crack, or shed pieces.
- An adult stays within arm's reach and watches for the whole session.
Presentation
- 1
Before each session, check every object: it does not fit the small parts test cylinder, it has no cracks, splinters, sharp edges, or loose parts, and it has no cord, strap, or string.
- 2
Place the basket within easy reach of an infant who is already sitting steadily on their own. Do not prop the infant up to sit.
- 3
Sit close by on the floor or a low chair where the infant can see you. Do not hand them objects, name every object, or show what to do.
- 4
Watch which objects the infant chooses, how long they hold each one, and whether they mouth, shake, bang, or pass it between hands. Point of interest: the infant picking an object and turning it over.
- 5
If the infant looks to you, answer with a look or a smile. If they are distressed, comfort them. Otherwise stay quiet.
- 6
If two or three infants share the basket, let each take objects; step in only if one is being hurt.
- 7
End the session when the infant loses interest or tires. Remove any damaged object; wash or wipe the others and let them dry.
- 8
Change a few objects every few days, and write down which objects the infant used and how.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- A basket of one material only (all metal or all wood) to compare weight and sound
- Add objects with a clear temperature or smell, such as a cool metal cup or a fresh lemon
- Offer a second basket so two infants each have their own
Control of error
None in the material; each object gives its own information (weight, sound, taste, temperature). The adult observes what the infant does with each object.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Chooses objects from the basket without adult help
- Handles one object for a minute or more, turning, mouthing, or shaking it
- Passes objects from hand to hand and bangs two objects together
- Starts to crawl away from the basket or to put objects into containers: the sign to offer posting works and, after walking, heuristic play
Guide note
From Elinor Goldschmied (Goldschmied and Jackson 2004), not from Montessori's own materials. Goldschmied chose natural and household objects instead of plastic toys because plastic objects feel, weigh, and taste much the same. A home basket can start with fewer objects and grow.