(The easiest party activity you’ll ever set up—promise)
If you’ve ever hosted a toddler party and thought,
“Okay but… what do I do with all these tiny humans once they arrive?”
Friend. I’ve been there.
This Free Bear Scavenger Hunt Printable was created for that exact moment—when you need something:
-
Fun but not chaotic
-
Easy but not boring
-
Budget-friendly but still cute
-
And toddler-approved (the toughest critics of all)
I originally used this scavenger hunt for a Beary 1st Birthday Party, and let me tell you—it was a bear-y big hit. Now I’m sharing it with you for free, because moms helping moms is kind of my thing.
Don’t forget to check out my gallery where you can see how I used this printable for my son’s Beary 1st Birthday party!
Table of Contents
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn money from the products mentioned in this post, but this is at no cost to you. You can find my full disclosure HERE.
WANT TO SAVE THIS FOR LATER? PIN IT TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD!
What Is the Bear Scavenger Hunt
Think of this as hide-and-seek meets party magic.
The printable includes adorable bear heads that you hide around your space. Kids search, spot, and celebrate each bear they find—no reading, no rules, no explaining required.
It’s perfect for:
-
Toddlers & preschoolers
-
First birthday parties
-
Classrooms & daycare celebrations
-
Indoor or outdoor play
-
Calm party transitions (hello, sanity saver)
And yes—there are both pink and blue versions available to download!
Your Beary Simple Supply List
You only need a handful of supplies — most of which you probably already have in your craft drawer or teacher stash:
- Cardstock
- Printer (THIS is the one I use and LOVE)
- Scissors
- Popsicle sticks or skewers (optional but amazing)
- Glue or tape
Tip:
Cardstock is your best friend here. It keeps the bear heads sturdy enough for tiny hands, outdoor breezes, and enthusiastic toddlers who treat everything like a toy.
That’s it. No glitter. No laminator. And no tears.
How to Use the Free Bear Scavenger Hunt Printables
This activity is so easy to set up that you’ll feel like you’re cheating at party planning. (Spoiler: you’re not. You’re just brilliant.)
Step 1: Download & Print
Print on cardstock (this makes them sturdier for little hands)
There are 2 sizes of each colors: 2.5″ & 3.5″ circles! Both sizes are included with the download.
Step 2: Cut Out the Circles
Turn on your favorite show, grab a snack, and cut out the bear circles. It’s oddly therapeutic.
Fun Ways to Hide the Bears (Get Creative!)
Here’s where the fun begins — you can hide these little bears in SO many creative ways.
Option 1: Popsicle Stick Bears (Perfect for Outdoors!)
Glue each bear head onto a popsicle stick or wooden skewer.
Stick them in the ground around your yard like tiny bear garden gnomes.
This is PERFECT for toddlers 3 and under because they can easily spot them without bending or climbing.
Option 2: Double‑Sided Tape
Stick the bears on:
- Walls
- Furniture
- Balloons
- Doors
- Play structures
- The side of a cooler
- The back of your spouse (kidding… unless?)
This is great for indoor parties or classrooms.
Option 3: Yarn Loop Hangers
Punch a hole at the top, add a loop of yarn, and hang them like ornaments.
Kids LOVE discovering bears dangling from unexpected places.
Option 4: Mix & Match
Use all three methods for a more dynamic scavenger hunt.
High, low, hanging, hidden — make it an adventure!
Tips for a Beary Successful Hunt
- Hide some easy, hide some tricky. Toddlers need wins, but older kids love a challenge.
- Count your bears before hiding. Trust me — you don’t want to find a rogue bear behind your couch three months later.
- Give each child a small bag or basket. Instant excitement.
- Play multiple rounds. Kids will ask. And ask. And ask.
- Let kids “help” hide the bears for round two. It doubles the playtime without extra effort.
- Use them again later. These bears make adorable décor, learning tools, or quiet‑time activities.
Perfect for a Beary 1st Birthday Party!
Why This Works So Well for Toddlers
- No reading required
- Immediate excitement
- No waiting turns
- No complicated instructions
It builds:
- Observation skills
- Movement & coordination
- Confidence (“I FOUND ONE!” 🥹)
And it keeps little hands busy while adults chat, set up food, or just breathe for a second.











































