Scavenger Hunt
Compass Clue Hunt
Write compass and step clues that lead to a hidden prize in the park.
Ages 8 to 13
45 minutes
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Get ready
15 minutes. Get to the park early or have one person set up while the other waits.
What you’ll need
A compass or a compass app on your phone, paper, a pen and a small prize.
Let’s play
1. Hide a small prize and walk back to a starting point, counting steps.
2. Write clues like 20 steps north, then 10 steps east to the big tree.
3. Hand your kid the clues and the compass.
4. They follow each clue. You only help if they’re lost for more than a minute.
5. Swap. They hide the prize and write clues for you.
Your part in the adventure
Write the first course, then follow theirs honestly.
What they’re discovering
They’re reading directions, counting distance and planning a route.
Before you begin
Pick an open area where you can see each other. Avoid roads, water and parking lots.
Keep the idea going
Ages 8 to 9 can use landmarks instead of compass points. Ages 11 to 13 can use degrees.
Every child is different. Adjust activities for their age and abilities, and stay close by. These are play ideas, not medical or developmental advice.