What's In The Box

Early learning (and school readiness) isn't about knowing just the ABC's and 1,2,3's.
It's not only about what a child learns, but also about how they think, interact with their environment, how they see themselves and their community, and much more.

What does playing "What's In The Box" accomplish?

• Analytic and comprehension skills: children learn to ask questions that lead to discovery.
• Listening skills: children have to hear and interpret responses to lead to their guess.
• Communication skills: children formulate questions and practice answering too.

Preparation:

• Take a box; shoebox size works great.
• Decorate the outside of the box with question marks.
• Put a "mystery object" inside the box.
• Close the lid.

How to play:

1. Every child in your family (or try it at a birthday party!) can ask one question about what is inside the box.
2. When everyone has had a turn, everyone can take a guess what is inside the box. If they can't guess, give hints.
3. If someone guesses, they can open up the box and show the group. Maybe they get to be the next person to choose something. Remember, it’s not about winning and losing—it’s about having fun with your child while teaching skills.
4. Ideas for what you could put in the box:
   1. Diaper pin
   2. Teddy bear
   3. Piece of fruit
   4. Cup
   5. Book
   6. Crayon
   7. Spoon

I'd like a printable version of What's In The Box

For more tips, or if you need more information or would like to talk to someone:

In Washington State: Call the Family Help Line at 1-800-932-HOPE (4673)
Outside of Washington State: contact your local Circle of Parents agency