Materials:
Five or six small toys
Sheets of aluminum foil
Basket
Directions: Choose some small, familiar toys to wrap in aluminum foil. We recommend aluminum foil because it encases the toy without tape. Put the wrapped toys in the basket, and set it in front of your child. Let your child choose an item from the basket. Ask “What is it? Can you unwrap it?” You can help by pulling one corner free, but most children will work at getting the mystery object unwrapped without your assistance! Encourage your little one to tell you what the object is. Invite him to choose another item. You can try getting your child to predict by asking him what he thinks it might be. Sometimes the shape of the object is a clue. Objects you might want to use are a small ball, a plastic water bottle, a block, a cup, a hairbrush—all common household items. I love this activity because it’s a great way to work those fingers, and it will hold your child’s interest and curiosity.
This is an activity for children 18 months and older. Younger children tend to mouth the items rather than unwrap them. Slightly older children have had the experience of unwrapping things (like presents) and will be intrigued to see what’s inside!