Infants at Work

Elinor Goldschmied, a well-respected pioneer of early childhood care and education, introduced several innovative ideas to early years practitioners. Elinor was interested in showing how developments in our understanding of child development can work in everyday childcare practice. As such, much of her work is on film rather than in books. This Film illustrates one of her most important concepts - the 'treasure basket'. The treasure basket is intended for the few months of a child's life when they can sit up but are not yet mobile. Filled with everyday objects that appeal to the five senses, the basket offers babies wide range of sensory experiences and gives them the chance to explore and decide for themselves what they want to play with. Aimed at early years practitioners and parents, the film highlights how a baby's brain develops in response to surroundings, through the senses of touch, smell, taste, hearing, sight and movement.