The Treasure Hunt of Love –
This Valentine’s tradition combines the fun of a treasure hunt with the sweetness of showing love and appreciation, while praising character qualities instead of “talents.”
I had so much fun brainstorming last year when I did this. Cut four or five hearts out of red or pink construction paper, label them 1 to 5 on the backside, and write a clue on the front that describes something you love about the recipient and at the same time leads them to a spot where they will find the next clue.
“I love your cheerfulness in the morning, even before you have had your breakfast. I love when you choose joy.”
“I admire the diligence you showed in order to get an A in Chemistry”
“You have such a big, kind heart when you help your little brother pick up his puzzles.”
“Your great attitude and sportsmanship at basketball games make the whole family proud of you.”
The first clue can be hidden under a pillow, placed on the breakfast plate or taped to the bathroom mirror. Of course, the last clue of the treasure hunt leads them to a present or a treat you have prepared for them.
One year, I made up a corny poetic clue for each “station.” The kids had to figure it out before they headed on to the next destination, and “no,” I don’t think you want to hear it…although it did rhyme quite nicely, thank you 
(And I admit, one of the things they had to do in order to get the next clue was to scrub the toilet…hee hee.)
You know if wouldn’t be my family if there hadn’t been some bedlam; the cat and the dog both wanted in on the treasure hunt. Yes, the dog got the “treasure.” Right out of my daughter’s hand.
Or my Hearts of Loving Kindness tradition idea.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
I was wondering if my guys were a little too old for Valentine’s Day. . .if maybe they would be embarrassed to get a valentine from their mom. . . and then the other day my almost-13-year-old said, “Are we going to get little treats for Valentine’s Day this year?” I think kids never outgrow special treats on special days. I know moms don’t!
[Reply]
Fun to see someone else doing this. My kids look forward tremendously to the Valentine’s Day hunt, even if they are 9 and 12!
[Reply]
It is so fun to hear creative Valentines ideas. My dad always did the treasure hunt like that for our easter baskets. I think he spent all year trying to come up with the clever little clues.
I have started a new carnival “Meatless Mondays.” I would love for you to join in. You can post something new, or dig up a favorite blast from the past.
http://teachingmoneytokids.blogspot.com/2010/01/meatless-monday-carnival-kids-in.html
Thanks Staci
[Reply]
I love how the cat and dog both got in on the action. haha
One year for my middle daughter’s birthday party, I did a treasure hunt and did the rhyming thing. One clue had something do with “poo”.
And the clue was taped to the back of the toilet tank. The kids LOVED the treasure hunt!
[Reply]
I love that! my mom has made treasure hunts for various holidays since i was a toddler – kids and adults alike! we all love it. My hubby even made one for me with the sayings that rhymed for a birthday a few years ago. it was sweet and so heartfelt. I even saved all the clues from that birthday for my scrapbook of special moments. thanks for sharing yours!
~ Emily N. from “too Blessed to Stress”
[Reply]
Great hunt!
you are so creative.
I can never think of such great clues and end up downloading them from a treasure hunt site
[Reply]
Great ideas! This is an incredible way to bring your entire family together to celebrate Valentine’s Day!
[Reply]
What fun! I bet they had a blast! Thanks so much for joining in the fun at the Valentine Party!
~Liz
[Reply]
I love how you share the simple things in life with your kids.
Just thought I would let you know that Crate and Barrel is hosting a contest for a $100,000 wedding giveaway. I posted about it on my blog at http://asimplyfrugalhome.blogspot.com/2010/02/crate-and-barrel-wedding-contest.html
[Reply]
My son always loved those kinds of special treasure hunts when he was little. It’s obvious your kids are really into it–very cool.
Shirley
[Reply]