Signs and Labels Resources
Schema Label Pack | Containing
Containing Schema Label Pack | Birth-5
A calm, practical labelling system for schema-informed provision. Each card pairs a clear resource name with a short line showing how it can support containing exploration.
24 purpose-led labels | 4 provision sections | 8 printable pages
Contents
- Containers to Fill, Empty & Collect
Buckets, baskets, pots, bags, boxes, jars and bottles | 6 labels
- Posting, Nesting & Fitting
Posting boxes, nesting cups, inset spaces, tubes, funnels and compartments | 6 labels
- Carrying, Sorting & Storing
Carriers, trolleys, collection boxes, loose-part trays, homes and care containers | 6 labels
- Water, Sensory & Treasure Containers
Pouring, filling tools, water, sand, mud, dough and treasure collections | 6 labels
Pedagogy in brief
Children exploring a containing schema may repeatedly put objects or materials inside bags, boxes, baskets, pots or other vessels; fill and empty containers; post objects through openings; nest one container inside another; or carry and store collections. This differs from enclosing play, where the interest is often in creating a boundary around a person, object or space, although the two may overlap. These labels help practitioners make open-ended resources visible and accessible without turning observed behaviour into a fixed category. Children may explore several schemas at once. Notice and model language such as in, inside, full, empty, more, less, open, closed, fit, hold and pour while allowing safe, child-led repetition. Select only developmentally appropriate resources; avoid plastic bags, cords, glass and airtight or entrapment risks, and supervise water, sensory materials, lids, containers and small parts with suitable risk assessment.
Using this file
Pages 2-9 are the printable label sheets. Print at 100% scale. Text and illustrations can be edited in Word. Choose only the labels that suit the children, space and resources available. Place labels where children can see and use them. The labels support choice, language and responsive provision; they are not a checklist or a way to assign a fixed schema to a child.
Additional/Alternate Use
The labels may be kept as cards for professional knowledge and CPD. Settings may find it useful to keep cards available as a reference tool for practitioner use within a responsive planning environment.
Both editable docx file and pdf files available. To change wording or font on a label to suit your particular setting, select the ‘DOCX’ option below.
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