Hide and Seek is one game that kids never get tired of playing... but sometimes you do! The next time you feel like calling Olly-Olly-Oxen-Free after cramming your body behind the bathroom hamper, try this low-tech handheld version instead.
Dubbed Hide and Seek Rice, the game applies the principles of the time honored classic to a tabletop version that you make yourself. The object of the game is for your kids to spot each of the objects you have hidden in a jar of rice.
Surprisingly simple, this game also offers different levels of play: For younger players provide the list of objects (written, drawn or verbal depending on their age) for them to spy, checking off each item as itis found. For older players, have them list their found items on their own.
You can also play an open container version of this game with even the youngest toddler by filling up a large cardboard box full of rice and letting them feel around for the objects. Of course items must be large enough that they do not present a choking danger.
To make your Hide and Seek Rice game, simply fill a large clear (very important) plastic jar 3/4 full with rice. We found ours at our local 99˘ Only store. Next, gather approximately 20 trinkets and list them on a piece of paper. These objects can be coins, screws, character figurines, superballs, mini candy bars, keys, earrings --
whatever you have laying around the house. BarbieŽ accessories also work great.
Once you have your master list, dump all the trinkets into the jar with the rice. Close the top tightly and shake the jar to intersperse the objects with the rice. When the game is over, simply strain out the objects and start over again with 20 new objects.
I like to use a mixture of different kinds of rice to make the game more challenging. You can also add food coloring to some white rice to make different colors for an added texture. Just mix up the uncooked rice and the food coloring in a bowl and then lay out on wax paper and let dry overnight.
This game is not only fun, but gives you a use for all those small party favor trinkets and small toys that have a way of multiplying in your house. Also a great boredom buster when your child is home from school sick.
|
