What children will learn
- Practise addition, subtraction or times tables at the right level
- Read and follow written instructions
- Build confidence by solving one problem at a time
You'll need
- Paper or sticky notes
- A pencil
- A small 'treasure' (a snack, sticker or note)
How to do it
- Choose 6–8 hiding spots (fridge, under a cushion, the letterbox) and number them on a secret list.
- Write one clue per card. Each clue is a maths question whose answer matches a number you've stuck on the next spot — for example, 'What is 4 + 3? Find the 7.'
- Stick a large number on each hiding spot so children can match their answer to the right place.
- Hand over the first clue. Children solve it, find the matching number, and collect the next clue.
- The final clue leads to the treasure. Celebrate and ask which question was the trickiest.
Make it easier
Use counting questions (‘How many legs do 2 cats have?’) or picture clues for pre-readers.
Make it harder
Use two-step problems, fractions (‘Half of 18’) or have older children write the hunt for younger siblings.
Parent tip: Pitch the first two clues easily so everyone gets off to a winning start, then step the difficulty up gradually.
Fantastic work! Every little step helps you grow.