Here’s a super fun addition to a Family Math Night event: A scavenger hunt! As participants enter the room they are handed one of two “game boards”…the K-2 version or the 3-5 version.

The K-2 version is a little easier and includes pictures. In addition, it’s played like bingo but with a scavenger hunt twist. Kids and their parents explore math in the environment by finding and crossing off items on their bingo board. Five-in-a-row wins. For a challenge (and an extra prize — see below) they can find all the items on the board. Click the left image above to print a copy of the K-2 version.

The 3-5 version is the traditional scavenger hunt. Because these students are older, they should be familiar with the items on the list. Their job, with the help of their parent, is to find and write down ALL the items. Click the right image above to print a copy of the 3-5 version.

As an added incentive for completing their scavenger hunt, kids can win little prizes such as a pencil, ruler or other small treat. Or they could get an extra guess in the estimation jar. Or maybe they could earn a free homework pass… But any time a prize is offered, you’re going to get a lot of takers. So be prepared. 🙂

Classroom version: These two scavenger hunts are also great classroom activities and make a wonderful first week of school game. Kids can partner up and work together to complete their boards. In addition, older kids can create their own game boards using the K-2 version. It’s a great way to reinforce the math they have learned. Click the image below to print a copy.