Make Treasure Hunts More Fun
The treasure hunt is especially fun with school-age kids who can read the clues themselves, though they may occasionally need help. With a lot of grandchildren on hand, the treasure hunt is likely to turn into a mad dash. With a single grandchild, it will be more leisurely. With multiple grandchildren, you’ll want to make them take turns reading the clues and be sure to provide enough “treasure” for each child at the end.
Readymade Treasure Hunt Clues
Treasure hunt clues are more fun if they require a bit of solving. Puns and rhymes add to the fun. I’ve created 30 clues to get you started, all involving common outdoor objects. You can copy and paste these to save time. Answers are at the end. You can also use these as a starting point to create your list, customized for your outdoor environment. Answers: 1. Doormat 2. Fence 3. Flowers 4. Garden gate 5. Bicycle 6. Garden glider 7. Doorbell 8. Car tire 9. Solar light 10. Tool shed 11. Landscaping rock 12. Garbage can 13. Mailbox 14. Garden hose 15. Faucet/water tap. 16. Windchime 17. Birdhouse 18. Tree 19. Grill. 20. Sidewalk 21. Wheelbarrow 22. Electric meter 23. Birdbath 24. Herb garden 25. Garden gnome 26. Fire pit 27. Bird feeder 28. Hammock 29. Porchlight or outdoor light 30. House numbers
Finishing Touches
Choose the clues that fit the features of your outdoor space, or write your own clues. Don’t forget the treasure that goes at the end. You can use a jar of coins for the grandkids to divide or fill a box with pirate “treasure” that you can find at the dollar store. The box can also be filled with inexpensive toys such as bouncy balls, bubbles, silly string or yo-yos. It’s best not to use candy or treats because the ants are likely to find them first. In summer I like to put a big tub of water balloons at the end, but be sure the kids are in their play clothes because water balloons are irresistible! After your treasure hunt, you might want to play some classic outdoor games, toss a ball around or have fun with things that fly. If the weather is not favorable, you can also do a treasure hunt indoors.
