• Determine the number of stages of the hunt. Once you’ve done that you can choose the final challenges, then create a scenario and write out the clues.
• Find the hiding places and decide on the order in which they’ll be found. At each hiding spot, you’ll have to hide the candy and the description of the test they’ll have to take to find the next clue.

Keep the game to an appropriate length. Depending on the age of the kids, the game itself and the types of tests, 6 to 8 steps should be plenty.

• Hint at the theme of the hunt throughout the day by alluding to certain elements of the story you’ve created.
• Hide the candy carefully, even if it means asking another member of the family to create a diversion. It's best to wait a few hours before the hunt begins to avoid having any of the hiding places discovered beforehand—especially if part of the hunt is outside, where four-legged intruders may also be looking for sweet treats...

Just before starting the hunt, adjust the lighting, create the right audio environment and have all your extra accessories on hand. Then let the hunt begin!