As the weather gets warmer and circumstance prevents us from spending time together, it can be a challenge to figure out how to make time spent outdoors fun. Today, we have a suggestion for you: An outdoor scavenger hunt!

Scavenger hunts are fun for kids of any age. They’re engaging, exciting, and encourage healthy competition when they are run as a contest. Scavenger hunts encourage both the designers and the players to think outside the box, to look at their surroundings in a new way, and to really explore the world around them. The rules of a scavenger hunt are simple. Each participant has a list of items they must find. Sometimes there are clues instead that can lead players from one place to another. Sometimes the item requires participation or is some kind of action. You can get really creative with a scavenger hunt!

To plan your scavenger hunt, go to a place where your child can safely explore, like a local park. Maybe choose one that your family doesn’t normally visit. Then, go around the area looking for unique items to find. It could be a statue, a particular color of a flower, or fountain. It could also be a category of items that your child needs to find a certain number of, like three nests or two spider webs. While you’re looking, take into account the eye line and abilities of your child. A child who likes to climb might enjoy things that they need a high vantage point to see. Children with mobility issues should be looking for things close to paths and walkways.

Once you’ve compiled your list, it’s time to give it to the kids and get exploring! And though we may be apart, there’s no reason why they can’t compete with their friends. Share your scavenger hunt list with parents and arrange different times to explore the park. Take photos of your child next to the items on their list as they are found. Whoever can find the most items wins!

Keep checking the Best Brains Blog all summer long for more fun ideas like this!