An explanation for heuristic play
 

I recently done a unit likethis.. i have noticed that diffrent childcare companys do the course a bit diffrent but hope this helps a little....
The term ‘heuristic’ comes from the Greek word meaning discovery.
Heuristic play allows children to explore different types of objects and materials without adult direction. The role of an adult is to support the children, gather objects, prepare the activity and to observe the children.
Heuristic play is part of children's natural curiosity. As babies grow, they move beyond being content to simply feel and ponder objects, and begin wanting to find out what can be done with them.
It’s exciting to witness the thought processes children display
In an early years setting there are two types of heuristic play used they are treasury baskets and heuristic play.

straight out of the text book