Inventory Exploration Boxes Freebie
Inventory Exploration Boxes Freebie: Play is so important in the early childhood classroom. Play isn’t just play, it’s the way kids learn best! My friend Vickie at Primary Press has a great post {HERE} about how she uses exploration boxes as an alternative to morning work. I decided to give them a try but not necessarily for morning work. I use them during the day, during math small groups or as a transition activity. I chose to combine the boxes into stacking sets of containers that are for each table instead of individual boxes. I will try and let the pictures do the explaining:
Each box has three levels, with he top level having 6 compartments. I got the containers at Target. 
Here are pictures of the contents of each box set:
I also decided to add optional response sheets (you can find them HERE). There are a variety of pages and I don’t feel they take away from the exploration/free play of the boxes. Kids can use them to write a question, share a pattern, wonder why, record their counting, etc. Here are some photos of how my kids use the pages:
I hope you can find a way to use these in your class. Find the FREEBIE {HERE} on TpT!
Super ideas, these develop not only intellect of kids but also their fine motor skills and creativity. Thanks for sharing!
Hi there! Do you change these out? I find it so hard to come up with new things to put in these kinds of tubs. I love the recording sheets. My district is a stickler for that!
The tubs are So full of things, generally the kids don’t get bored. The tubs rotate which helps, too. I might add things or change things occasionally, but only if I get something that will work and I want to add it. I am very explicit with my kids that if they complain or get “bored” then maybe we’ll have to do some “work.” After that, they’re happy to play and I hear very few complaints! lol #meanteacher