Early Atlas

Activity

What Can This Object Do?

A baby or toddler explores a tray of safe everyday objects, discovering how each one looks, feels, sounds, and moves.

Ages 6–30 months

Inspired by Montessori Play-based learning exploration senses treasure-basket

Supports this milestone

  • actively explores people and objects to understand self, others, and objects. — Head Start ELOF

Explore milestones →

Materials

  • A shallow basket or tray
  • 5 to 8 safe, varied objects (a metal cup, a wooden spoon, a fabric scrunchie, a large pinecone, a textured ball)
  • A soft mat or blanket to sit on

Steps

  • Sit on the floor with the child and place the basket between you.
  • Let the child choose an object and explore it freely, with no rush to "use it right."
  • Narrate what you see, such as "You are shaking it. It makes a rattle sound."
  • Model a new action only if the child stalls, then hand the object back.
  • Offer a fresh object when interest fades, keeping the pace led by the child.

Variations

  • Add a container so the child can drop objects in and tip them out.
  • Swap in objects with new textures or temperatures, such as a cool metal lid.

Differentiation

  • For young infants, offer one object at a time during tummy time.
  • For older toddlers, ask "What else can it do?" to invite new tests.

Accessibility

  • Choose high-contrast or noise-making objects for children with vision differences.

Safety

  • Use only objects larger than a choking-tube; supervise all mouthing closely.
  • Wash objects between children.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas