This silly sensory game is perfect for Halloween parties or rainy days.
Children reach into hidden boxes and try to guess what’s inside – from “witch’s worms” (spaghetti) to “monster eyeballs” (peeled grapes)! It’s full of laughter, surprises, and a little bit of harmless gross-out fun.
Materials
- Several small cardboard boxes or shoeboxes
- Small bowls or containers
- Cooked spaghetti (for “worms”)
- Peeled grapes (for “eyeballs”)
- Jelly or slime (for “goo”)
- Dry rice or lentils (for “bugs”)
- Old socks, tissues, or similar soft textures
- Paper and pens for guessing
- Optional: cloth or paper to cover the boxes
Tools
- Scissors or craft knife (for adults to cut holes)
- Spoon or tongs for filling containers
Steps
- Cut a hand-sized hole in the side of each cardboard box.
- Place a bowl or container inside each box, filled with a different “gross” texture.
- Cover the boxes with paper or cloth so the contents can’t be seen.
- Label each box with a number.
- Ask each player to take turns reaching inside and guessing what they feel.
- Write down all the guesses, then reveal the answers at the end!
Variations
- Nature Edition: Use natural textures like damp leaves, pinecones, or mud instead of food items.
- Story Mode: Turn the mystery into a themed challenge – e.g. “A wizard’s potion ingredients” or “Alien samples”.
- Blindfold Challenge: Skip the boxes and have one person blindfolded while touching mystery items handed to them.
Why It’s Great
- Encourages sensory exploration – Helps children develop touch-based curiosity and descriptive language.
- Builds confidence and humour – A gentle, funny way to explore “icky” feelings safely.
- Perfect for group play – Encourages laughter, teamwork, and shared reactions.
Safety Tips
- Adults should cut holes and prepare any slippery or food-based items.
- Avoid any ingredients children are allergic to, and wash hands before and after the game.
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