How to Make an Easy Hidden Object Game

Create an easy "I spy" collage theme using cut-ups from old magazines.

Hidden object or " I SPY" games have been around for many years. The Scholastic book Company has an "I SPY" hidden object series. They range in difficulty and are available for all ages. Hidden object games can provide hours of entertainment, as they are great for road trips, rainy days and classroom projects. Since they are available in many forms, including online, they are easily accessible and you can make or buy them at a low cost.

Things You'll Need

• Old magazines
• Poster board of any size
• Mod Podge
• Paint brush
• Scissors

Instructions

1. 

   Cutting out images for your game is a good way to recycle old magazines.

   Search for images you want to use as your "hidden objects" in any size or shape. Keep in mind that smaller objects will be harder to find. Cut out enough images to fill your cardboard piece.

2. 

   Kids will love making their own unique hidden object boards.

   Brush your poster board with a light coat of Mod Podge, a water-based sealer that will help extend the life of your game board. It dries completely clear and is available in matte or glossy finish. Place your images in the desired location while it is still wet. Be sure to fill up your entire board. Let dry.

3. 

   Hidden object games are great for groups of children to keep them focused and intent on the hunt.

   Seal and adhere the back side of the images to the game board once the Mod Podge is dry. Reapply another coat of Mod Podge to the front side of the game board images. Be sure to coat the edges of the board well. Let dry, then reapply a second coat. Once both coats are dry, your game board is ready.

4. Play your hidden object game by secretly selecting an image. Offer clues to the other player to help her discover your hidden image. For example, "this item is small and round." Once a player has guessed the hidden item correctly, she gets to select the next image. The process continues until everyone has had a turn or time runs out.

Tips & Warnings

• The game board can double as a collage art project.

• Additional options include:

• Creating index cards with a duplicate picture of a hidden item to find.

• Making clue cards with hints on one side of the card and the correct answer on the back. Once the players have solved the puzzle, they can locate the item on the hidden object board.

• Creating themed boards like sports equipment, household items, or numbers and letters.

References

• Scholastic Books: I Spy
• free-hidden-objects-games: online games