This post should be called: How to get a reluctant child outside into the fresh air!
In the UK we are on national lockdown right now. And that suits my 10-year-old son just fine. Lockdown is basically his idea of a vacation. However, his teenage brother is totally the opposite and goes stir crazy if indoors too long. So outside we must venture if we want to avoid a scuffle!
This weekend I armed myself with something that I think you might find useful too: a scavenger list. AKA the Nature Treasure Hunt. Kids love hunting for things, and this free printable is a great way to reward their curiosity outdoors.
A game that’s adaptable
The best part is that you can do a scavenger hunt, again and again, adapting it for different locations. A family walk around the neighbourhood, the local park, the forest, the beach, camping – there’s always something interesting to spot if you have the motivation to look.
More ideas for an extra fun Nature Treasure Hunt
- Don’t forget to take a little bag to bring home a few ‘treasures’ too – sticks and leaves are great materials to turn into collages or mobiles. Check out Red Ted Art for an easy how-to guide
- Older children might enjoy turning the scavenger hunt into a healthy competition. One idea is to see who can spot the items fastest, or set a timer for a few items at a time
- You could even inspire a photography contest. Let them use a smartphone/camera to capture their favourite scavenger hunt items. You could print a few pictures afterwards and put them up at home
- Once you’ve done this Nature Treasure Hunt, you can easily make one of your own, including in it items you know will appeal to your child and their age (ie an animal lover will enjoy spotting birds and squirrels, the insect lover will happily identify woodlice or chase butterflies). Then add a handful of things that are fairly easy to spot and a couple of items that will take more work. This ensures they have fun and enjoy a little challenge
I have here a ready-made Nature Treasure Hunt you can just print and go. If your child is not of reading age yet, they can cross out the pictures. Just for fun, you could add a few more doodles or extra items and personalise it for your child.
Download a Free Printable Nature Treasure Hunt
If you liked this outdoor activity and are inspired to do more things outdoors, you might also enjoy this guide: How to Buy a Kid’s Bike That Grows With Them.
