Looking for an exciting party game that keeps 9 and 10-year-olds entertained, active, and thinking? Scavenger hunts (also called treasure hunts) are a fantastic choice. At this age, kids are eager for some new, challenging party games, and scavenger hunts tick all the boxes—they involve problem-solving, teamwork, movement, and tons of fun!
Here’s how to set up and run a successful one, along with some of my favourite challenge ideas.
How to Run a Scavenger Hunt for 9–10 Year Olds
1. Create Teams
Divide the children into small teams of 3–4 players. This size keeps everyone involved and makes it easier for them to collaborate and communicate.
2. Start with a team challenge
All teams begin with the same challenge to kick things off. One of my favourites:
Photo Sort Challenge – Give teams a set of photos of the birthday child (one from each year). Their task is to arrange them in chronological order. Once correct, they receive their first clue.
3. Prepare a Series of Clues or Challenges
Plan about 8 different tasks or riddles for each team. To avoid teams simply following one another, give them the same challenges but in different sequences.
Here is an example including 8 popular scavenger hunt challenges perfect for this age:
- Riddle to Solve
Example: “What’s not a person but has hands and a face?”
(Answer: A clock) - Ball Toss Challenge
Each team member must toss 3 balls into a bucket from behind a line to earn the next clue. - Lyric Sort Puzzle
Provide scrambled lyrics from a well-known song. Teams must rearrange the words correctly to move on. - Language Fun
Say “hello” in 5 different languages before receiving the next clue. - Another Riddle
Example: “Timmy’s mother had three children: April, May, and…?”
(Answer: Timmy) - Balloon Pop
Pop balloons until you find the one with a clue hidden inside. - Lego Build Challenge
Recreate a simple Lego structure. Once completed and approved, get the next clue. - Hula Hoop Challenge
One team member must hula hoop for 10 seconds without stopping.
4. Final Clue and Finish Line
The last clue should direct teams to a final location (the “finish line”). The first team to arrive wins—but be sure to celebrate all participants!
Tips for a Great Scavenger Hunt Experience
- Balance challenges: Combine mental and physical activities to engage different interests and strengths.
- Personalize it: Tailor the themes and clues to your child’s favourite hobbies, shows, or games.
- Keep it inclusive: Make sure each team member gets a chance to lead or participate in a challenge.
- Helpers: Get some other children or adults to help you with running the hunt so that the teams are not waiting for you.
Download our Scavenger Hunt Guides
Want to save time and energy in preparing a hunt? I’ve created four downloadable scavenger hunt packs, available now in our Etsy store:
🗂️ Backyard Scavenger Hunt
Printable riddle clues for outdoor hunts in your backyard.
🎉 Birthday Party Scavenger Hunt
Printable clues perfect for indoor scavenger hunts.
🧩 Scavenger Hunt Game Guide
A full guide to different types of hunts with instructions, riddles, and challenge ideas.
🧠 Riddles and Brain Teasers
Printable riddles and brain teasers to use in scavenger hunts, escape rooms, or amazing races.
👉 Visit our Etsy store to grab your copies and make your next party unforgettable! http://www.bigbookofgames.etsy.com
