A treasure hunt can be as simple as hiding notes of love and encouragement, notes to be discovered in no particular order and over no particular period of time.

It can be incredibly fun and deeply satisfying to do ordinary and everyday things in unordinary and special ways. There isn’t anything that can’t be made just a little bit more fun when looked at in a creative and playful way. For example, you can give someone a present wrapped in beautiful paper and tied with a beautiful bow (perfectly acceptable), or you could give them a hand-drawn treasure map that leads them to a series of presents you have hidden for them (perfectly delightful).

Searching for treasure could easily be classified as universally enjoyable. It taps into so many innate and basic desires⏤the craving for adventure, the thrill of experiencing the unknown, the satisfaction of overcoming a challenge, and the rush of discovery. Young or old, rich or poor, introvert or extrovert, a good treasure hunt designed by someone who loves you is a gift in and of itself. Consider designing one for someone you love today. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

The Treasure Map

An oversized piece of paper that can be rolled into a scroll and tied with a red-colored string will get a good chuckle. Show the relative locations of each treasure (marked by an X, of course), and add any other decorative elements or imagery you want, such as trees, birds, or treasure chests. If you don’t feel comfortable drawing, cut and paste images from a magazine, newspaper, or printed from online sources. You could get really silly and affix a wax seal to the bottom edge by dripping a puddle of candle wax onto the paper and pressing something into it.

The Clues

These are descriptions of where each treasure is and how to get to it. They can be written as jokes, riddles, puzzles, or short poems, such as haikus or limericks. They could describe the physical features of the location and/or a memorable experience that took place there.

The Presents

In honor of all the pirates who have ever buried chests of gold, consider rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, watches, silver dollars, bullion, medallions, money clips, gemstones, polished stones, and chocolate “coins” as potential presents.

Whether you do this with a kid, a group of kids, or with a partner, it’s a perfect excuse to spend time together playing. Playing is fun.

Copyright 2023 Kesel Wilson (entirely, 100% human-created)

Please share my writing with your friends and family.