Hobbies And Interests
Adaptations
Write clues in simple language in large block print or use pictures for primary-school children. According to Creative Kids.com, "Children as young as two can play...by using pictures instead of words." Use large, block printing for senior citizens as well, but keep puzzles multistage. Adapt pop culture references to the age group as well. Make clues slightly more difficult for children who read at the 4th to 7th grade levels. Consider using recording devices, such as those used in greeting cards, so that participants with visual differences or low reading levels do not need assistance. Write clues in code or create complex, multistage puzzles for high school age players and adults. In "The Treasure Hunt," Douglass Twitchell provides ideas for clues suitable for elementary age and older students and adults.
Item Types
Use familiar and common items for primary-school children and individuals with cognitive differences. Keep item values low for children, but vary the value for older players. Make sure item sizes and weights are small to medium for senior citizens and the youngest children, and hide them between knee and shoulder height. Medium to large items should be hidden between ground and waist height. Small items can be hidden at shoulder height.
Prizes
Hand-held games and cartridges, cellphones, DVDs, MP3 players and other technology-related items are good choices for high school age through adult players. Include school supplies, such as backpacks, calculators, dictionaries and data storage devices for 4th-grade through 9th-grade players. Gift cards from high-end department stores, restaurant chains, gas stations and personal care businesses make excellent prizes for adults and senior citizens.
Procedures
Choose groups ahead of time. Family and club groups should have an even mix of male and female participants, ages, heights, reading levels and physical strengths. Have at least one adult to four children when participants are primary-school age or younger. Have at least one adult or older teen to every six children in 4th through 8th grade. Allow groups of older teens to nominate their own leader.
Problem Prevention
Provide cell phones to at least one member of each team and give all team members whistles. Instruct everyone to sit down and wait for help once they have blown their whistle or used the cell phone to call for assistance.