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If you have been here awhile, you know I LOVE a good scavenger hunt and am always dreaming up fun ones for my grandkids. You may not know this about me, but I also love to thrift, as I consider it a treasure hunt for us grown-ups.
That said, it makes sense to combine the two and create a thrift store scavenger hunt for the grandkids! This activity is fun and inexpensive and is the perfect way to spend a summer day when you would rather not be outside in the miserable heat:
1. Create your list
Before you set out on your thrift store adventure, sit down with your grandchild and make a scavenger hunt list. Your scavenger hunt could include things like a vintage hat, a porcelain teacup, an old record, a toy from your grandchild’s favorite movie, a piece of costume jewelry, or a book published in a particular decade. Make the list as long or short as you want, and feel free to get creative!
2. Set a budget
The great thing about this scavenger hunt is you can set a budget for it or simply say you aren’t buying anything, just browsing (err, hunting). However, if you do decide to buy some of the things you find, you can use this as a way to teach money management. To do this, simply explain the importance of a budget and why it is important to stick to it.
3. Choose your store
Next, pick a thrift store or a second-hand shop near you. The bigger, the better – it just means more treasure to find! (Needless to say, you may need to keep a close eye on your grandkids, especially if they are younger.)
4. The hunt is on
Once you have set your budget and any rules you may have, it is time to go to the store and let the fun begin! Work together or split up to find the items on your list. Remember, this isn’t just about the hunt – it’s about spending quality time together. Enjoy every minute (and, if you remember, take a few pictures throughout the day)!
5. Review your finds
Once you’ve found all the items or time is up, meet back up and review your finds. Discuss why you chose each item, any interesting details you noticed, and how you stayed within the budget.
6. Celebrate the day!
Don’t forget to celebrate your successful thrift store scavenger hunt, whether it be baking some cookies together or sharing a favorite meal. It doesn’t matter how you celebrate, as long as you’re together.
Alternatives
Theme-Based Scavenger Hunt
Instead of a generic list, create a themed one, a la the 60s-70s era, favorite movie/book themes, or a color-based theme (where you find items of a specific color).
Alphabet Challenge
In this version, you’re trying to find items beginning with every letter of the alphabet. ‘A’ could be an antique, ‘B’ could be a bracelet, ‘C’ could be a cookbook, and so on. It’s a great way to integrate learning with fun!
The $20 Challenge
Give your grandkids a budget of $20 each and see who can get the most items for their money. This activity isn’t just fun but also a great way to teach them the importance of money management, all while hunting for hidden gems.
Conclusion
A thrift store scavenger hunt is more than just a fun day out – it’s an opportunity to impart important lessons while creating unforgettable memories with your grandkids. What are you waiting for? Let the creative juices flow, put on your thrift store shopping hat, and embark on a memorable scavenger hunt!
