Make a Map

Become explorers and cartographers for the day! Draw a map of your home or room, just like a real treasure map. Use crayons or colored pencils to make your map colorful and fun. You can add details like furniture, doors, windows, and other objects. Don’t forget to mark where the treasure is hidden with a big ‘X’!
Make a Map - Kids activities

Summary

Appropriate kid’s energy level

Calm

Skill(s) developed

Creativity, Memory & Attention, Problem-solving

Prep time

3 minutes

Type of activity

Arts/Crafts, Physical

Appropriate setting(s)

Both indoors and outdoors

Material(s) needed

Paper, Crayons or colored pencils, A small object or treat to be the ‘treasure’

Easy mode

On easy mode, you can draw a simple path map of your room with help. You can start at the door and draw a path to your bed, desk, or any other spot in your room.

Hard mode

It’s time to level up! On hard mode, you need to add landmarks to your map. Landmarks can be anything from your favorite chair, a big plant, the TV, or even your pet’s bed! And of course, mark the spot where the treasure is hidden with a big ‘X’.

Challenge mode

Are you ready for the ultimate challenge? Now, you need to follow your map to find a hidden object or treat. You can ask someone to hide something for you and then use your map to find it. Don’t forget to celebrate when you find your treasure!

Some prompts to encourage the kid

  • Ahoy, little explorer! Are you ready to draw your treasure map?
  • I can’t wait to see what landmarks you’re going to add to your map!
  • Remember, X marks the spot! Where do you think the treasure should be hidden?
  • Wow! Your map is coming along beautifully. Can you tell me about it?
  • Let’s follow the map and find the hidden treasure! Are you ready for an adventure?

Important things to keep in mind

  • This activity is a great way to develop spatial awareness, fine motor skills, and creativity
  • It’s also a fun way to introduce basic map reading skills.

More ideas to support your Screen-Free journey

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We’re parents, just like you – trying to raise curious, creative kids in a world full of screens. Screen Free Kids started as a personal project to rediscover simple, joyful ways to play, learn, and connect. Now, we share those ideas with thousands of families  – through thoughtful activities, parenting guides, and a book full of inspiration. More about us.

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