Kim’s Game: First Aid Kit Edition

Kim’s Game is a traditional Scouting activity. It was first used by Sir Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting. The game helps Scouts improve their observation and memory skills. It has been used in Scouting for many years.

This game fits well into the Scouting program. It supports learning by doing. Scouts look at real items, try to remember them, and write them down. This method helps them remember what they learn.

Kim’s Game can be used with many types of items. One good use is with first aid supplies. Scouts can use the game to learn what belongs in a home first aid kit. This knowledge is helpful for both rank advancement and real-life safety.

Youth leaders can lead this game at meetings or training events. It gives them a chance to teach and guide others. Scouts remember more when they are active in the learning process. Kim’s Game makes that possible.

Scouts learn a lot from Kim’s Game. The most important skill is memory. Scouts look at the items, then try to remember them. This helps them train their minds to notice details. It also helps them stay sharp and focused.

This version of the game teaches what goes in a home first aid kit. Scouts learn the names of the items. They also start to think about what each item is used for. This is a good way to support first aid requirements for rank advancement.

This game connects to the Scout Law. A Scout is helpful. Knowing what is in a first aid kit helps a Scout assist others when they are hurt. A Scout is also trustworthy. They can be counted on to know how to respond in an emergency.

Scouts also learn by working together. After the game, they can talk about what the items are for. Sharing ideas helps them learn from each other. They learn to listen, speak clearly, and respect different answers.

This game works best with Scouts ages 10 and up. Cub Scouts can also enjoy it, but they might need more time to look at the items. For younger Scouts, use fewer items. You can also talk more about each one before starting the game.

For older Scouts, make it harder. Add more items. Mix in a few items that do not belong in a first aid kit and have them spot the extras. You can also ask them to group the items by use, like cleaning wounds or treating burns.

Materials Needed:

• Two blankets (same size)
• Paper and pencils for each Scout
• Items for a home first aid kit, such as:
  • Two 2-inch roller bandages
  • Roll of adhesive tape
  • 3×3 sterile pads
  • Adhesive bandage strips
  • Three elastic bandages
  • Thermometer
  • Scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Safety pins
  • Calamine lotion
  • Two pairs of exam gloves
  • Antiseptic
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Water-based burn gel
  • Mouth barrier device

Setup Instructions:

1. Lay out one blanket on a flat surface.
2. Arrange the first aid items on the blanket so all can be seen.
3. Keep the second blanket nearby to cover the items.
4. Give each Scout a pencil and a piece of paper.

Game Instructions:

1. Let Scouts look at the items on the blanket for 1 minute. Give more time for younger Scouts if needed.
2. Cover the items with the second blanket.
3. Scouts write down everything they remember.
4. After a few minutes, collect the papers or let Scouts check their own lists.
5. Uncover the items and compare them to the lists.
6. Count how many items each Scout remembered correctly.
7. If time allows, discuss each item and how it is used.

Notes and Variations:

• For younger Scouts, use fewer items.
• For older Scouts, add extra items that do not belong and have them find the wrong ones.
• You can also group items and ask Scouts to sort by purpose.
• Remind Scouts not to use real first aid supplies without adult help.
• Make sure any sharp items like scissors are handled safely.

Printable instructions for How to Run Kim’s Game with a Home First Aid Kit

First Aid Baseball Game

First Aid Baseball is another simple and active way for Scouts to review first aid skills. Scouts are split into two teams. One Scout at a time answers a question from a card. If the answer is correct, they move around the bases like in baseball. If the answer is wrong, it counts as an out. The umpire decides how far to advance the runner based on the answer.

This game helps Scouts think through real first aid situations while having fun. It builds confidence as they answer on their own. After three outs, the teams switch. The team with the most runs at the end wins. It’s a great way to keep Scouts engaged and practicing important safety knowledge.

More Games

Kim’s Game is just one of many fun and useful activities you can use with your Scouts. It helps build observation and memory skills and can be used to teach first aid or other topics. Games like this keep Scouts engaged while they learn.

You can find more game ideas right here on my site: Games for Scouts. I’ve put together a collection of games that work well at meetings, campouts, or training sessions. These games help Scouts stay active and build important skills.

How to Build Your Own First-Aid Kit

The Importance of Games in Scouting

What is Kim’s Game?

Kim’s Game is a memory game where Scouts look at a group of items, then try to remember and list them after the items are covered.

What is the goal of the game?

The goal is to remember as many items as possible. It helps Scouts practice observation and memory.

What kind of items should be used?

Use items from a home first aid kit. Things like bandages, tape, gloves, and ointment are good choices.

How many items should I use?

Start with 10 to 15 items. Use fewer for younger Scouts. Use more or add fake items to challenge older Scouts.

What age group is this game best for?

This game works well for Cub Scouts (with help), Scouts BSA, and Venturers. Adjust the difficulty for the age group.

Can Scouts touch the items?

No. They should only look. This helps them focus on observing carefully.

Kim’s Game is a classic Scouting activity. It teaches memory and observation skills. This version uses first aid kit items. Scouts look at the items, then try to remember them after they are covered.

The game helps Scouts learn what belongs in a home first aid kit. It’s useful for teaching safety and supporting rank advancement. It works well in troop meetings or at training events. Youth leaders can use it to teach others.

It is easy to set up. All you need is two blankets, some first aid items, and paper and pencils. You can change the number of items to fit the age of your Scouts. You can also add fake items to make it harder.

After the game, talk about what each item is for. This helps Scouts understand the use of each part of the kit. It makes the learning stick.