How could I forget the instruments. These are taken directly from Caspar's musical instrument basket. Egg shakers, maraca, claves and tone block are all suitable for Otis. 

Today I decided to try the standard, all-in-one discovery basket. Sometimes called a treasure basket. I used How to Raise an Amazing Child by Tim Seldin for inspiration. Tim suggests items made of metal, wood, glass, fabric, leather and items found in nature. He suggests between 50 and 100 items. I estimate I had around twenty items and I found the reason I suspect so many parents like this kind of basket. It keeps the child happy for a looooong time. 

If you are looking for ideas for a younger child look back at some of my older posts. I gave Otis his first and oh so sweet treasure basket at four months here. That was an amazing experience. I still remember watching as he touched silk for the first time. Two baskets that Otis used at six months are found here. 

There are a couple of lovely posts to look back on from Montessori ici a discovery basket from the kitchen and another beautiful example here.