Materials Needed

• Paper bags (one for each letter in the chosen word or phrase)
• Tape or staples
• Small objects (one for each bag, starting with the letter on the bag)
• Index cards or sheets of paper (one per Scout)
• Pencils

Setup Instructions

1. Choose a word or phrase related to your meeting theme (such as “BE PREPARED” or “NATURE”).
2. Write one letter from the word or phrase on each bag.
3. Find small objects that start with each letter and place one inside each bag.
4. Seal the bags using tape or staples so Scouts cannot peek inside.
5. Line up the bags in order to spell out the chosen word or phrase.

Game Play Instructions

1. Give each Scout an index card or sheet of paper and a pencil.
2. Have them write the chosen word or phrase vertically on the paper, leaving space next to each letter.
3. Let Scouts take turns feeling and shaking the bags without looking inside.
4. After exploring the bags, they write down their guesses next to the matching letter.
5. Once everyone has finished guessing, open each bag and reveal the objects.
6. Scouts count how many they guessed correctly.

Variations

• Team Version: Have Scouts work in pairs or small groups to encourage teamwork.
• Themed Versions: Choose words and objects related to nature, space, first aid, or another scouting topic.
• Harder Challenge: For older Scouts, use trickier objects or have them create their own mystery bags.

Safety Notes

• Avoid small objects that could be choking hazards for younger Scouts.
• Make sure Scouts do not shake bags too hard to avoid damaging fragile objects inside.
• Encourage fair play and remind Scouts to take turns and share.

For more information, see https://scoutermom.com/324/whats-in-the-bag-game/