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Description

This is an interactive story-based activity that can be run around a hut, campsite or other outdoor area.

I positioned this as us getting ready to have our snack when, oh no, the biscuit tin was empty, with only a note left inside. We then set off on a story adventure around the hut, hopping across a field, walking over a river and collecting one leaf each. The group then worked together to find the six hidden pine cones. Once all six had been found, we discovered the biscuit thief at the kitchen hatch, where everyone collected a biscuit and drink before sitting down for a story.

The attached PowerPoint provides an overview of the activity and all required resources. The materials can be printed once and kept for future use. This activity would also work particularly well as part of a camping experience, where there is more space available.

Designed for Squirrels, it could also be adapted for Beavers with a few minor tweaks.

Please note that I have not assigned a badge to this activity, as it formed part of a larger storytelling session. You will therefore need to identify and assign the most appropriate badge yourself.

Resources

- Printed resources for "The Nut / Biscuit Thief Mystery"
- Pine cones or acorns (Similar items accaptable)
- Biscuits
- Storybook for reading time

Instructions

Story
A note has been left behind:
"I'm sorry, but I had to borrow the biscuits. Follow the clues and you'll find me."
The Squirrels must travel through the forest, complete challenges, collect clues and discover who took the biscuits.

Characters
Leader can play:
Wise Owl
Rabbit Runner
Hedgehog Helper
Mystery Nut Thief - we used our soft toy mascot for this

The thief turns out not to be a villain. It is a young Squirrell who was worried there wouldn't be enough food for winter and hid the buscuits.

Activity Stations
1. The Rabbit Trail
Challenge:
Hop like rabbits from one marker to another.
Collect first clue.
Clue: "The thief has small footprints."

2. Crossing the River
Challenge:
Use stepping stones (hoops or paper plates).
Cross without touching the "water".
Clue: "The thief lives close to the ground."

3. Hedgehog's Leaf Hunt
Challenge:
Find hidden paper leaves around the room or field.
Clue: "The thief likes sleeping during the day."

4. Owl's Observation Challenge
Challenge:
Spot hidden woodland pictures or objects.
Clue: "The thief comes out more at night."

5. The Acorn Search
Challenge:
Search for hidden acorns around the area.
Final clue: "The thief is a dormouse."

Ending
The Squirrels find the Squirrel and the biscuits.
The squirrel explains:
"I was worried there wouldn't be enough food. I didn't mean to cause trouble."

Discuss:
Why is it important to ask for help?
How can we share?
What could the Squirrell have done instead?

The Squirrels then return have a drink a biscuit and sit and listen to a story.

Optional Extra
Give each Squirrel a cardboard "Golden Acorn" at the end for helping solve the mystery and showing kindness. This reinforces the idea that problems can be solved through teamwork and understanding rather than blame.
 

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