How to Make a Scavenger Hunt for Kids in 9 Steps
Looking to learn how to make a scavenger hunt for kids? As an elementary teacher who loves making learning enjoyable, I’ve put together a step-by-step guide to ensure your scavenger hunt is a hit.
From parties to family outings, this activity sparks imagination and creates lasting memories. Get ready to create an adventure that combines fun and learning, leaving children with unforgettable experiences.
DIY Kid’s Scavenger Hunt in 9 Steps to Fun!
As a Montessori Elementary teacher, I know firsthand that including games in the classroom can make learning fun and help students connect with what they’re learning in a new way – I call it learning in disguise!
I find creating and using scavenger hunts with my upper elementary students incredibly enjoyable. It’s a simple yet engaging activity that requires minimal planning but guarantees heaps of fun.
Scavenger hunts aren’t just for fun – they’re also a great way to learn and can be made easily at home. If you want to learn how to set up a scavenger hunt, follow these steps.
🧩 Teacher Tip: Not interested in making a scavenger hunt for kids?
Check out these premade, print-and-go scavenger hunts that we made!
Step 1: Determine the Scavenger Hunt Theme
When choosing a scavenger hunt theme for children, try to pick one that is both fun and educational. Consider the age and interests of the children, as well as any relevant topics they are currently covering in class.
For example, if they are studying insects, you could create a scavenger hunt that involves finding and identifying different types of insects around the playground. Alternatively, if they are learning about the parts of speech in language, you could design a scavenger hunt that requires students to find and connect with different parts of speech in their environment.
Themes can also be as broad as an outdoor scavenger hunt or an indoor scavenger hunt, or a list of items a child might find on a road trip or while on vacation with family.
By creating a unique scavenger hunt theme you’ll be sure to spark the interest of all participants and make the experience more unforgettable.
Step 2: Choose a Location for the Scavenger Hunt
Once you’ve decided on the theme, you’ll need to choose a location for the scavenger hunt that meets the needs of your group.
When choosing a location for your scavenger hunt, think about the size and layout of the area you will be using. It could be a park, a neighbourhood, a school campus, your classroom or home, or any other place that is safe and accessible for children.
First, check the area for safety and make sure it’s easy for students to move around. Think about any special needs, like wheelchair access or accommodations for kids with disabilities.
Make a map with clear borders to keep students within the area during the scavenger hunt. This not only gives the activity structure but also teaches kids how to use a map – a useful life skill. It’s a teachable moment in action!
Step 3: Choose the Type of Hunt and Prepare
Did you know that there are different types of scavenger hunts? Before going any further in creating your own scavenger hunt, take some time to consider which type would be most enjoyable and engaging for your participants.
The two main types of scavenger hunts are clue-based hunts and item-based hunts. The main difference between the two types of scavenger hunts is the approach to the game. We’ve included a breakdown of each below.
Both types of scavenger hunts can be fun for kids! To choose the best one, think about their age, what they like, and what they can do. That way, it’ll be fun for everyone involved.
Once you pick the scavenger hunt style, get clues or a list ready. For clue hunts, hide clues; for item hunts, list the things to find.
Just remember, the clues should be a bit challenging but not too hard, and the items on the list should be safe and easy to find. Keep in mind the kids’ age and abilities while setting up you scavenger hunt!
Different Types of Scavenger Hunts
Clue-Based Scavenger Hunts
In a clue-based hunt, kids get clues that lead them to different spots or items. The first clue might take them to a tree, then the next one leads to a park bench, and so on until they find everything.
These clues can be riddles, rebus puzzles, or simple directions guiding participants to the next item on the list.
For example, one clue could be, “I have hands but can’t clap. I have a face but can’t talk. Find me where time ticks away.” (Answer: A clock)
The clues for a kids scavenger hunt could be easy or require some thinking. They could also be about a specific topic they are studying, like nature or history. Clue-based scavenger hunts are perfect for kids who love puzzles and using their brains to solve problems.
Teacher Tip: Keep it in Order!
Arrange the clues in a clear order for the clue-based scavenger hunt. Number them or use different colored papers for each clue. This way, kids can easily follow the sequence.
Item-Based Scavenger Hunts
In an item-based hunt, kids get a list of things to find and check off or collect. These items might be related to a theme or topic, but the main goal is to find the items, not solve clues.
Participants explore the play area to find everything on their list in item-based hunts. These hunts are great for kids who love exploring and using their observation skills.
Here are examples of items kids can search for in an item-based scavenger hunt: a smooth rock, a yellow flower, colorful fabric, an orange toy, a keychain, and a pencil.
🔎 Check out our ready-to-go item-based scavenger hunts listed at the end of this blog.
Click here to see the full list now!
Step 4: Prepare the Playing Area
To set up a clue-based scavenger hunt, start by hiding those clues! Make it exciting by using different spots. Try taping a clue under a chair or peeking out from under a rug. For an extra challenge, hide them inside a book or behind a picture frame.
For an item-based scavenger hunt, set up the area so the items on the checklist are easy to spot within the space. Whether indoors or outdoors, make sure all participants can see and reach the items easily.
Step 5: Decide on Team Play or Individual Play
When creating your own scavenger hunt, decide whether kids will play in pairs, small teams, or individually. Each option has its advantages, so consider the age and size of the group to pick what works best.
For younger children, creating teams may be more appropriate as they can work together, have fun, and create a buddy system. For older children, independent play may be more suitable, providing a greater challenge and the opportunity for individual problem-solving as well as some healthy competition with their peers.
If participants are playing solo, set the scavenger hunt up as a race to see who can find all items first or see who can find the most items within a specific time. This adds an extra layer of fun to the game!
Whether in groups or solo, a kids’ scavenger hunt is always a fantastic choice. Even if it’s just one child, it’s a wonderful activity. It lets them explore at their own speed and feel accomplished once they’re done.
Check out our neighborhood walk scavenger hunt card game!
In this outdoor scavenger hunt, items found earn points (and bonus points!), making it thrilling for independent, team, or solo play.
Step 6: Decide on the Rules and Safety Guidelines
You’re almost set for an awesome and thrilling scavenger hunt! Just a few more essential steps to learn how to make a scavenger hunt for kids.
Before the adventure kicks off, establish ground rules and safety guidelines. This step is crucial; having these rules written and decided beforehand ensures a smooth and enjoyable scavenger hunt for everyone involved.
Establishing and communicating rules with all scavenger hunt participants can help:
✅ maintain order;
✅ promote fair play;
✅ emphasize the importance of safety;
✅ foster positive values; and
✅ improve listening and recall skills.
To ensure a smooth and safe scavenger hunt, I set clear rules. I begin by offering a whiteboard or chalkboard for the kids to create their own rules, letting them feel involved in setting guidelines.
Usually, the kids cover most of the points I had in mind, but if they miss any, I step in to add those extra rules.
By letting the children create rules, they feel responsible for following them. It’s all about fostering ownership and responsibility, following the Montessori approach!
Here are my go-to guidelines for any scavenger hunt: stay within the area for safety, use a buddy system for mutual care, and ensure regular check-ins to account for everyone.
I also remind students that respecting the environment is vital – I remind them not to touch unfamiliar objects or plants without permission. This maintains their safety and protects the natural surroundings, ensuring a fun and responsible scavenger hunt for all!
Step 7: Set a Time Limit for the Scavenger Hunt
Setting a time limit for a scavenger hunt encourages participants to work quickly and efficiently to find all the items on the list or complete the task before the clock runs out. Additionally, a time limit can help keep the activity on schedule and prevent it from running too long, which can cause participants to lose interest or become bored.
The length of time for a scavenger hunt for elementary students can vary depending on the number of items on the list, the difficulty level of the hunt, and the age and skill level of the students.
I usually set the timer for about 20 to 30 minutes. It gives students enough time to hunt without losing interest, yet adds excitement to finish within a reasonable timeframe. If time runs out early, there’s always the option of bonus time!
Scavenger hunts offer flexibility, which is part of their charm. For instance, during a road trip or family vacation, the time limit may vary. It might not be as short as a classroom or local park hunt. Participants might have the entire car ride or the vacation week to find all the items on their list.
Step 8: Decide on Prizes or Awards
Consider rewarding the successful completion of the scavenger hunt with prizes or awards. This could be for the fastest completion time or finding all the items. Recognition, high fives, or physical prizes—all are great options! It’s entirely your choice.
Whatever you choose to do (or not do), just be ready and prepared on the day of the scavenger hunt to give out the prizes at the end of the activity.
I celebrate all my elementary students by giving out unique awards like ‘Most Determined Searcher’, ‘Best Collaboration’, and ‘Most Enthusiastic Player’. I might even hand out certificates for these fun titles!
This can be a great opportunity to celebrate everyone’s effort and teamwork and to reinforce the scavenger hunt’s learning objectives.
Step 9: Plan a Post-Hunt Debrief
As a Montessori teacher, I believe this debriefing step after the scavenger hunt is very important because it helps children to reflect on their experiences and learn from them.
In the debrief, kids can share thoughts and experiences with the group. This helps them understand their thinking, learning, and improves communication and social skills.
It’s always so awesome to hear students discuss and compare strategies they used to find the items or complete challenges.
I also love hearing what students liked and what they didn’t like about the activity. This debriefing session helps me get better, too! It provides me, the hunt organizer, with feedback so that I can make improvements for future activities.
It’s a win-win!
Congratulations on Creating Your Scavenger Hunt!
You’ve taken the steps to create an awesome scavenger hunt, now gather your participants and let the exploration begin!
Here are a few things you’ll want to review with participants before they begin:
🌲 Go over the theme;
🗺️ Explain the boundaries of the playing area and provide a map;
🧩 Explain the type of hunt – clue-based or item-based;
👥 Organize participants into teams, or have them play as individuals;
🧷 Go over rules and safety guidelines;
⏱️ Explain how much time they’re working with;
🏆 Outline any prizes or awards that they can win.
Time to make your plans real! Whether it’s a clue-based or item-based hunt, hand out the first clue or checklist and watch the adventure begin.
Good luck and have fun!
Instant No-Prep Scavenger Hunt Ideas!
We love no-prep scavenger hunts because they typically require minimal planning and preparation, making them easy and convenient to organize.
Explore these quick, no-prep scavenger hunt ideas for a hassle-free adventure if you have no interest in learning how to make a scavenger hunt for kids.
Print-and-Go Item-Based Scavenger Hunts We Made
For a fun and engaging activity that keeps kids entertained and active, try an item-based scavenger hunt! Here are a few we’ve crafted just for you!
🌲 Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Printable Card Game
🏡 Indoor Scavenger Hunt
🐤 Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
🔴 Parts of Speech Alphabet Scavenger Hunt
🔡 Alphabet Scavenger Hunt for Indoor and Outdoor Fun
Print-and-Go Clue-Based Scavenger Hunts
Clue-based scavenger hunts are fantastic for sparking kids’ creativity and critical thinking. Here are some of our favorite clue-based scavenger hunts for kids!
🌲 Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Clues (this one is editable!)
🏡 Indoor Teen Scavenger Hunt (also great for those upper elementary kids!)
😀 Kids Indoor Scavenger Hunt
🌳 Outdoor Treasure Hunt
🥳 Birthday Scavenger Hunt for Kids
📅 Save the Date: May 24 is a Special Day for Scavenger Hunt Fans!
It’s National Scavenger Hunt Day! And you can read all about it here.
To celebrate National Scavenger Hunt Day, consider organizing a scavenger hunt for your family or friends. You can create clues and challenges that are tailored to your group’s interests and abilities, or use a pre-made scavenger hunt checklist to make things easier.
Remember May 24 – National Scavenger Hunt Day! Get ready to celebrate in style and uncover exciting adventures and treasures!
More About Scavenger Hunts for Kids
Curious about scavenger hunts? We’ve got you covered with more information!
A scavenger hunt is a game or activity where participants are given a list of items, clues, or tasks to complete, and must search for or complete them within a designated area or time limit.
Participants can be individuals or teams, and the scavenger hunt can be played indoors or outdoors. The items or tasks on the list can be anything from finding specific objects or locations to solving puzzles, or even completing physical challenges.
Scavenger hunts bring adventure and discovery as kids hunt for items or complete tasks on a list. They’re a fun, interactive way to teach, explore a topic, or enjoy team-building for groups of all ages.
This engaging activity offers numerous opportunities for teachable moments. From solving clues and puzzles to working in teams and observing surroundings, participants are exposed to a variety of learning experiences.
As a Montessori elementary teacher, I find that scavenger hunts are an excellent teaching tool for the developing second plane child. They not only engage the students but also foster their curiosity and independence, making learning a fun and interactive experience.
The Wrap-Up: How to Make a Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Scavenger hunts are a fun and engaging activity that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages. Whether you choose a clue-based or item-based scavenger hunt, the key is to make it challenging yet enjoyable.
Keep in mind to customize your scavenger hunt based on participants’ interests, ages, and skills. The step-by-step guide above can help you make your own scavenger hunt that keeps kids entertained, excited, and engaged in learning while exploring their surroundings.
Why not give it a go and see how much fun you can have with the elementary-aged kids in your life?
Check out the educational activities in these blogs:
🧩 Rebus Puzzles for Kids: A Comprehensive Riddle-Solving Guide
🎲 15 Educational Games With Three Dice for Kids (+ FREE Printable Dice)
🎲 21 Fun Math Games with Dice to Try With Kids 8-12 (+ FREE Printable Dice)
🔢 9 Montessori-Aligned Math Activities for Elementary Students
🧮 Elevate Elementary Math Skills with This Exciting Math Card Game
🎲 11 Ways to Use Our Roll A Story Dice Game
✏️ 13 Engaging Vocabulary Development Activities for the Elementary Level
🔎 The Best Neighborhood Walk Scavenger Hunt & 13 Different Ways to Use It
🌟 13 Reasons to Celebrate National Scavenger Hunt Day with Kids + Examples
🧩 8 Easy Rebus Puzzles (with Answers!)
🎨 Your Kids Need This Activity Book with Unique Drawing Prompts
🎲 11 Creative Ways to Use Our Roll A Story Dice Game
📚 31 Fun Summer Reading Activities Elementary Students Will Love
