Oh no! The magic cookbook’s pages have escaped, and if we don’t find them fast, the chefs might start making all the candy broccoli-flavored!
This Halloween-ready scavenger hunt is sure to become a library favorite. Kids will search the library for five missing ingredient posters, decode each one using a picture-based cipher, and unscramble the letters to reveal a final spooky word.
It's the perfect mix of Halloween fun and brainy problem-solving. And best of all, it's low-prep and super flexible. Run it as a set-time program or offer it as a drop-in activity for families who can’t always make scheduled events.
What’s Included:
5 printable “ingredient” pages
A decoder chart
A riddle-filled answer sheet
Objective:
A haunted cookbook has lost its pages! Kids will search the library for the missing ingredients, decode the secret letters, and solve the riddle to discover the final word.
How to Set It Up:
Print the Materials
Print the 5 ingredient pages on sturdy paper
Print one answer sheet per child or team
Hide the “Ingredients”
Place the posters around your space in visible, safe spots
Grab Pencils for Recording Answers + Optional Prizes
A small reward like a sticker, bookmark, or Halloween treat makes a great finishing touch!
4. Give kids an answer sheet and let them start searching!
So You’re Sold, But What About Your Director or Leadership Team?
Here are some of the benefits you can share about running the Magic Cookbook Scavenger Hunt:
The Magic Cookbook Scavenger Hunt is a low-prep, high-engagement activity designed for school-age children. Participants search the library for hidden “ingredient” posters, decode picture-based clues, and solve a final riddle. It’s themed for Halloween but focuses on logic, literacy, and fun.
Educational & Literacy Benefits
Encourages Critical Thinking: Kids use logic and visual decoding skills to interpret a cipher and solve a mystery.
Boosts Visual Literacy: Matching images to letters supports decoding and early reading comprehension strategies.
Promotes Problem-Solving: The process encourages attention to detail, logical thinking, and persistence. All while feeling like a game!
Supports Library Goals
Promotes Independent Exploration: Kids engage with the library space through a self-led scavenger hunt.
Encourages Repeat Visits: Low-barrier, anytime programs encourage families to stop by even outside of formal events.
Reinforces the Library as a Fun Learning Space: Blends fun with skill-building, reinforcing the library’s role in lifelong learning.
Flexible Format
Drop-In or Scheduled: Can be run as a one-time program, passive station, or ongoing activity for a full week.
Minimal Staff Time: Easy to set up with clear instructions and minimal supervision required.
Reusable: Materials can be used again next year with no additional cost.
Equity & Access
All Ages Welcome: While designed for ages 6–12, it’s accessible for a wide range of abilities and easily adapted.
No Devices Required: 100% screen-free activity supports families limiting screen time.
Ready to get started? Simply subscribe (for free) to Your Library Vault and the welcome email will include a link to the vault of freebies, including this one. Just remember that this printable is only available for a limited time, then it will go in the shop. Grab it today!
With wonder,
-Allison
Creator of Your Library Vault
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