Sensory Play for Babies: How to Create a Treasure Basket at Home

Babies learn through touch, taste, sight, sound, and smell.

A treasure basket is one of the easiest and most powerful tools for sensory play at home. It helps babies explore, focus, and learn through natural curiosity.

Here’s how to set one up—and why it supports your baby’s development.

What Is a Treasure Basket?

A treasure basket is a low, open basket filled with safe, everyday objects made of different materials.

Popular materials include:

• Wood

• Metal

• Fabric

• Natural textures like feathers, shells, or corks

This activity is ideal for babies aged 6 to 18 months who can sit and explore independently.

Curious baby exploring a treasure basket filled with wooden toys and household items.

How to Create a Treasure Basket for Your Baby

1. Choose the Right Basket

   Use a shallow, sturdy basket or box so your baby can easily reach inside.

2. Pick 10–15 Safe Items

   Look for a mix of shapes, weights, and textures.Avoid plastic toys. Use natural, household objects like:

   • Wooden spoons

   • Metal measuring cups

   • Silk scarves

   • Sponges

   • Loofahs

   • Curtain rings

   • Smooth stones (too big to swallow)

3. Check for Safety

   Ensure every item is clean, non-toxic, and large enough to avoid choking risks.

   
   

How to Use the Treasure Basket

• Let Your Baby Explore Freely

  Give them time and space to choose and explore the items on their own.

• Observe Before You Talk

  Watch their actions. When they look at you or make a sound, respond with a word like “soft,” “cold,” or “shiny.”

• Keep It Calm and Focused

  Use a quiet environment. No need for screens, songs, or loud toys—just your baby and the objects.

  
  

Treasure Basket Ideas for Toddlers

Toddlers love sensory play too. Customise the experience as they grow:

• Themed Baskets

  Try categories like:

  • Music basket (bells, shakers, tambourines)

  • Light-up basket (torches, glow sticks)

  • Scent basket (lavender bags, citrus peel)

  • Kitchen basket (whisks, sieves, wooden spatulas)

    
    

• Heuristic Play Materials

  Add safe household and natural items like:

  • Old keys

  • Fabric scraps

  • Cardboard tubes

  • Shells and pebbles

  • Wooden napkin rings

Themed treasure baskets for babies provide sensory exploration with music, light-up, scent, and kitchen-themed items.

Where to Find Sensory Items

• Around your home

• On nature walks

• At local markets or charity shops

  
  

Stick to natural, safe, and clean objects. Avoid anything sharp or too small.

When to Use Treasure Baskets

• During quiet time

• After a nap

• While you prep meals

• On rainy days

• At playgroups or with other babies

  
  

This activity doesn’t require a schedule—just your baby’s interest and alertness.

Why Treasure Baskets Support Development

• Encourage focus and independent play

• Strengthen fine motor skills

• Build sensory awareness

• Support cognitive growth

• Promote calm, mindful exploration

Start Today

You don’t need expensive toys or screens to support your baby’s development.A simple treasure basket filled with everyday items can spark hours of exploration.Let your baby lead, and enjoy the quiet magic of sensory play.