Alphabet Scavenger Hunt

I wanted to take the boys for a walk since it was so nice out, but I know how difficult transitions can be for J, especially in the afternoon when he is starting to get tired.  So I thought it would be fun to do an alphabet activity outside.  Just a day or two previous to doing our Alphabet Scavenger Hunt, I had stumbled across this post about a letter walk, which used a paper plate as the "scorecard."  I knew that it would also be an excellent way to help transition J to go outside.

First, you'll need to make the paper plate scorecard.  You'll need a paper plate, scissors, and a marker.  Cut 26 tabs on the rim of the paper plate.  Label each tab with a letter from the alphabet.

I told J that we would be going for an Alphabet Scavenger Hunt outside and showed him the paper plate.  He was so excited about it that, surprisingly, he didn't put up a fight to get his boots and coat on.  While walking around the neighborhood, I told him to watch out for letters and if he found one, to bend the letter back on the plate.

Although I pointed out words on the street signs and postal boxes, he focused on license plates.  Luckily, there were about 40 cars parked on our crescent, so there were plenty to look at.

J had a blast reading the license plates and marking them on the paper plate.  K also helped by pointing out letters that he recognized.  And naturally, K enjoyed some puddle splashing along the way!

The Alphabet Scavenger Hunt was a huge success!  It was an absolutely perfect way to get outside for a walk on a beautiful day and, of course, I always love an activity that combines learning with some exercise and fresh air.