Sprouts · Free printable

nature scavenger hunt for kids

Print it. Go outside. See what you find.

A scavenger hunt turns any outdoor space into an adventure. You don't need a forest or a nature preserve. A backyard, a neighborhood park, or even a sidewalk works. The point is getting kids to slow down and actually look at what's around them.

the free checklist

How to use it: Print the checklist below, grab a pencil, and head outside. Kids can check off items as they find them, draw what they see, or collect small items (leaves, pebbles) to bring home. Works for solo explorers or groups.

things to spot

  • A bird
  • A bug
  • Something growing in a crack
  • A cloud shaped like an animal
  • Something red
  • A tree taller than your house
  • An animal track or trail

things to touch (gently)

  • Rough bark
  • A smooth stone
  • A soft leaf
  • Wet soil

things to smell

  • A flower
  • Fresh-cut grass or herbs
  • Dirt after rain

things to hear

  • A bird call
  • Wind through leaves
  • Running water
  • An insect buzzing

bonus challenges

  • Find something you've never noticed before
  • Find something you think is beautiful

download the printable

All 20 items on one page, in the Sprouts style, ready for the printer. Free, no email required.

PDF · 1 page · US Letter

take it further

A scavenger hunt is a great starting point, but the real magic happens when kids start journaling what they find. Drawing the bug they spotted, noting what the weather was like, comparing what they see this week to last week. That's where observation turns into a habit.

Our Sprouts Garden Journal is designed for exactly this: 30 pages of prompts, trackers, and drawing space that help kids build an ongoing nature practice, not just a one-time activity.

the sprouts garden journal

30 pages of prompts, trackers, and drawing space for ages 3-10. Printable, and made to be used all season.

keep going

the full activity pack

10 structured activities for ages 3-10, with prompts and tracking sheets built in.