This fun equation scavenger hunt is a great way to encourage kids to practice basic math skills in a fun hide and seek style game.

Supplies

• Small pieces of paper
• A marker
• A large space to hide things
  

Preparation for an Equation Scavenger Hunt

Think of some math equations that are developmentally appropriate for the children in your program. You will want at least one equation for each child who will be participating. If you are working with young children stick to small numbers with simple addition and subtraction equations. If you are working with older children, make the problems more challenging by using larger numbers and adding in multiplication and division. 

After you have your equations written.  Use your small pieces of paper and write each piece of the equation.  For example; If your equation is 4 + 9 = 13, you will have a separate piece of paper for:

• 4
• 9
• +
• =
• 13
  

Do this for each equation. You will have five pieces of paper per equation. You will want to label the equal and minus signs so they are not mistaken for a one or an 11. When you have all the equation pieces, hide them in your space. 

How to run a Equation Scavenger Hunt

Explain to the kids that they are going on a math scavenger hunt.  Pieces of equations have been hidden around the area. To play they will hunt for pieces to complete an equation.  Tell them they will need five pieces to complete an equation including three numbers, an addition, subtraction, multiplication or division sign and an equals sign. The trick is that kids can only hold five pieces of paper at a time.  If they already have five pieces and find another they want they must leave one where they found the last one.  

Once kids complete an equation, let them celebrate and have them offer to help others.  The game continues until every equation is complete.

My experience

I love this game; it is so simple to create,  kids enjoy the search aspect of the game and it helps develop basic math skills.  After the first time we did this activity, I laminated the pieces of paper so we could use them again without them getting ruined.  This game is perfect for days we are stuck inside because of rain or cold weather!

If you like this activity you may also like our treasure hunt puzzles and hints for kids or our escape room puzzles, these activities are perfect for kids who enjoy critical thinking challenges.