Early Atlas

Activity

Naming Basket

Children name familiar objects pulled one at a time from a treasure basket.

Ages 12–30 months

Inspired by Montessori Play-based learning vocabulary naming treasure-basket

Supports this milestone

  • uses an increasing number of words in communication and conversation with others. — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

  • A basket of 6-10 familiar real objects (spoon, ball, brush, cup, toy car)

Steps

  • Pull out one object and pause expectantly.
  • Ask "What's this?" and wait for the child to name it.
  • If the child points or is silent, name it and invite them to repeat.
  • Continue through the basket, celebrating each attempt.

Variations

  • Swap in objects from a theme (kitchen, bathtime, outdoors).
  • Hide an object and have the child name it by feel.

Differentiation

  • Accept approximations and signs as naming.
  • For older children, ask "What do we do with it?" to extend language.

Accessibility

  • Accept signs or AAC selections; pair objects with pictures for added support.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas