🔢 Numbers & shapes · Ages 2–3 · about 2 weeks

In, On and Under

Goal: Explore in, on and under with a familiar large object and a box.

For parents: Show a position while saying its name. Use the same objects before adding new ones. Pointing, moving an object and saying a word are all useful ways to respond.

Do together

  1. In the box

    You need: An open cardboard box and a rolled whole towel

    Check the box for staples and remove them yourself. Put the towel in the box, then take it out. Invite your child to copy. Say 'in' as it goes inside. Keep the box open and use it for objects only.

  2. On the cushion

    You need: A large cushion and the rolled towel

    Put the towel on the cushion. Ask your child to take it off and put it on again. Swap roles so they can show you where to put it. Do not require a spoken answer.

  3. Under the cloth

    You need: The rolled towel and a light hand towel

    Hide the rolled towel under the hand towel while your child watches. Ask where it is and lift the cloth together. Compare under the cloth with on the cloth. Keep cloths away from faces.

Talk about it

  • Can you put it in?
  • Where is the towel now?
  • Shall we look under the cloth?

Words to use

  • in
  • out
  • on
  • under
  • box

Play

  • Position Quest
    Position words
Play these games free

Every game is free for every family until 20 November 2026.

Your child can…

Ticks are saved on this device only. Move on when most are ticked.