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Early Years / Ten Minute Play Australia / Cards

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07 · Mystery objectEarly years home play · 07 Mystery Object

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Ten minutes · talk / touch. You need: A clean tea towel and two or three large, familiar, safe objects such as a spoon, soft toy or cup. Do not use a blindfold.

Play: Let the child choose an object. An adult places it under the towel with a corner showing, or leaves it in full view. Take turns giving clues about shape, feel or use. Reveal it whenever the child asks.

Adult says: “What do you notice about it?” “What clue should I give?” “Would you like to see it now?” Guessing correctly is not the point.

Child chooses: Hider, clue-giver, finder or watcher. They can point, gesture, sign, use home language or AAC instead of speaking.

Notice: Which detail did they offer or ask about? Did they change a clue after hearing another idea?

Access and safety: Touch, sight or an adult's description can lead the play. Avoid surprising a child with an unwanted texture or covering their eyes. Use objects too large to swallow. No screen is needed.

Reuse: © NeuroForgeIO Pty Ltd 2026 · CC BY 4.0 · Original; note changes if adapted.