Wicker Shopping Baskets (2Pk)

The Wicker Shopping Baskets are more than just role-play props; they are a vital tool for developing responsibility and self-organisation. In a classroom where "loose parts" are a core part of the provision, these baskets give children a way to transport their treasures from one area to another with intention. The act of "shopping" for items and placing them in the basket requires children to make choices and categorise their finds, supporting early mathematical thinking. These baskets are hand-woven from natural materials, offering a rich sensory experience that plastic containers lack. They are sized perfectly for a young child's arm, encouraging them to move around the setting and engage in "heavy work," which provides grounding proprioceptive input. In the "Home Corner" or "Play Shop," these baskets act as a catalyst for social interaction, as children take turns being the customer or the shopkeeper, building the foundations for social communication and negotiation. Their classic, timeless design ensures they remain a beautiful and functional part of the classroom environment, helping to create a space that feels like a home away from home.

Features

• Set of 2 hand-woven baskets made from sustainable wicker.
• Features sturdy, reinforced handles for carrying heavy loose parts.
• Traditional open-weave design allows children to see the contents.
• Lightweight yet robust construction suitable for toddlers and up.
• Natural finish that highlights the texture and scent of the wood.

Benefits

• PSED: Supports independence, choice-making, and responsibility.
• Maths: Facilitates sorting, collecting, and counting activities.
• C&L: Provides a prompt for social role-play and negotiation.
• PD: Enhances gross motor strength through carrying and lifting.
• Sensory: Offers a tactile and olfactory experience using natural fibers.