What are good treasure hunt clues for 9 year olds?

An easy step by step way of planning a tresure hunt.

Treasure Hunt

1. Start at the End.
   
   Where's a good place to hide the treasure? The answer depends on both the location and the treasure itself. If it's huge, you need to pick a spot the guests and the birthday boy won't see it. If it's small, there are all kinds of possibilities. I've seen treasures hidden in an oven!
   
   Another option is to use the starting point as the ending point. Just make sure the route has the kids out of that room for at least 3 minutes so you can sneak the treasure into the room. It helps to have a second adult so that one can stay with the kids while the other is putting out the treasure.
   
   
2. Plan the Route.
   
   Once you know where you want to end up, then start thinking about the route itself. Do you want them to always stay in the same room? Can they go upstairs and downstairs? Can you have them go outside for part of the route? Are there some rooms you or areas that shouldn't be included in the route?
   
   
3. Pick your Clues.
   
   Once you have the route, the next step is deciding on the clues. If you only have a small space, then you should have hidden clues that will be a challenge to solve. Think of things like codes, secret messages, poems or riddles that they need to solve to find the next clue.
   
   If you have lots of space, then the clues can be easier to follow. You could use compass directions and a number of paces (remember that kids may have a smaller 'pace' than an adult!). Once you have the directions, you can make a treasure map
   
   Often we use codes or reversed writing even for a large treasure hunt. To make clues in reversed writing, type the clue into the computer, then 'flip' the text. After you print it, hold it up to a mirror to make sure it's reversed.
   

Tips and Ideas

• For a really long treasure hunt, about halfway through, have a very tough clue hidden with a snack and drinks. The kids can have a break while they solve the clue.
  
• If you are looking for inspiration, here's the story of a creative Uncle who planned a treasure hunt using our treasure balls to hide one of the clues.