Hiking games and activities for kids: Hungry, Hungry Ants

[Rob Bignell]

Generally, exploring and discovery is enough for kids, but sometimes even they can grow bored with that and become restless. Remember that they naturally have shorter attention spans than adults.



Fortunately, there are lots of tried and true activities you can do on the trail that’ll keep kids from getting bored. Among them is Hungry, Hungry Ants.



Once you spot an ant hill, see if its inhabitants have a trail of workers leading away from their home. If they do, follow the ants and discover what they’re eating. A magnifying glass helps but isn’t necessary. Also, don’t play this game with red ants that bite.

 

Materials: None needed though a magnifying glass can be useful.

 

Ages: 3 and up.



Read more about day hiking with children in my guidebook
 Hikes with Tykes.