A rhyming outer space treasure hunt for ages 4–8. Read the story, hide the clues around the house and let the astronauts follow the trail to the radio beacon. Here are free clues to start with, and a printable version with your child’s name and your own hiding spots.
Read this out loud before the first clue. It turns “go find some cards” into a mission.
Incoming Transmission
Calling Astronauts!
This is Ground Control. We have a problem! Our satellite lost its signal, and the launch thrusters on the space station won’t start without it.
Our engineers have placed eight radio beacons around the station. Each beacon holds a rhyming riddle that points to the next one. Track them all down to reboot the system.
Remember your astronaut training: stay with your crew, move carefully, and count down out loud every time you find a beacon. Reach the final beacon and the thrusters will fire!
Your first beacon is attached. Ground Control out!
Over and out,
Ground Control
Write each riddle on a card and hide it at the answer to the clue before it. The first clue goes in the kids’ hands after the story.
Ground Control calling! The signal went dark,
Find every beacon to give us a spark!
Beep-boop! Beacon found! The signal is clear,
Now blast off again, the next one is near!
One beacon left, then the thrusters will roar,
Find the launch pad where rewards are in store!
The printable Deep Space Rover Expedition has your child’s name on every page and a rhyming clue for each spot in your home, including ones you type in, like “Grandma’s piano”. You get a host guide, the story briefing, clue cards with pictures for little ones and a finisher certificate, plus Host Mode on your phone for party day. It’s $9.99 and arrives by email in minutes.
