Early Atlas

Drop and Discover Treasure Basket

Babies drop and release safe objects to discover that their actions make things happen.

Ages 8–20 months

Inspired by Montessori Play-based learning cause-and-effect exploration senses infant

Materials

  • A low basket of large, safe objects such as wooden rings, fabric balls, and a metal cup
  • A child-safe tray or shallow box to catch dropped objects
  • A soft mat for the child to sit on

Steps

  • Hand the baby one object and let them feel and explore it.
  • Model dropping the object into the tray so it makes a sound.
  • Wait and watch as the baby reaches for another object and tries dropping it too.
  • Respond with words such as "you dropped it" each time, naming the cause and the effect.
  • Refill the basket and let the baby repeat the game as long as they stay interested.

Variations

  • Swap in objects that make different sounds so the baby compares the effects.
  • Add a pop-up toy the baby can press to make something spring up.

Differentiation

  • For younger babies, place objects directly into an open hand to ease grasping.
  • For older toddlers, offer a container with a small opening that takes more aim.

Accessibility

  • Choose objects with contrasting colors, textures, and sounds so the effect is clear through several senses.

Safety

  • Use only objects too large to be swallowed and supervise closely to prevent mouthing of small parts.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas