Camouflage

Name and Purpose

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Materials

No materials required
Optional: a small flag or coloured cloth the Spotter can hold up instead of a hand signal

Quick-Run Card

Choose one player to be the Spotter.
Spotter calls “Camouflage!” loudly, closes their eyes, and counts to 10 aloud.
All hiders find a spot within the agreed boundary where they can see the Spotter’s hands.
Spotter holds up a hand signal for 15-30 seconds. Spotter may twist at the waist but cannot move their feet.
Hiders who were not spotted and correctly show the signal win and may take the Spotter role next round.

Setup and Boundaries

Define a clear boundary before play begins. Use natural landmarks (that tree, this fence) or cones.
Signal: one short whistle or raised arm = pause and gather.
Check the area for uneven ground, holes, or low branches before play.

How to Play

One player starts as the Spotter and stands in an open spot within the boundary.
The Spotter calls “Camouflage!”, closes their eyes, and counts to 10 aloud.
All other players scatter and hide. The ideal hiding spot lets the hider see the Spotter’s hands while staying concealed.
When counting is done, the Spotter holds up a creative hand signal for up to 30 seconds. The Spotter cannot move their feet but may twist at the waist.
The Spotter calls out any hiders they can see, naming their location.
After 30 seconds, the Spotter calls “Show yourselves!”
Undiscovered hiders who can correctly copy the signal step forward. The first to step forward and show the correct signal becomes the Spotter next round.
If the Spotter spotted everyone, they go again or nominate a new Spotter.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Hide, observe the Spotter closely, and show the signal as fast as possible.
S (Support): Help a partner find a good hiding spot, then hide nearby.
Q (Quiet): Hide very close to the boundary edge and focus on stillness over speed.
O (Observer): Stand with staff and watch the Spotter’s technique. Call out confirmed spotted players.

Inclusion Adaptations

Players who find it hard to stand still may crouch or sit in their hiding spot.
The Spotter role suits players who prefer not to scramble for cover. Rotate the role so everyone gets a turn.

Stewardship Moment

After the game, spend 60 seconds scanning the area. “Did our game disturb anything? Pick up anything out of place.”
Prompt: “How does the natural environment help us hide? What do animals use camouflage for?”

Consent

Pre-brief: “This game asks you to find your own hiding spot outdoors. For those not comfortable moving through the bush, staying near the open edge of the boundary is a great option.”
Mid-game check: After the first round, pause. “Thumbs up, sideways, or down. How is this going for everyone?”
Opt-out/re-entry: Any player may step to a marked sideline spot at any time. Call “In!” to re-enter at the next round start.

Risks and Mitigation

Tripping over roots or uneven ground: check the area before play; reinforce slow movement while hiding.
Players hiding outside the boundary: walk the boundary with the group before starting.
Players feeling left out if never chosen as Spotter: rotate the role every 2 rounds by staff call.

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Statue Freeze”: players walk around and freeze instantly on the whistle. Practice stillness.
“Signal Copy”: the leader makes a hand signal; everyone copies it as fast as possible. Practice observation.

Debrief Questions

What? “What made a good hiding spot? What gave people away?”
So What? “How did it feel to be the Spotter versus the hider? What helped you stay patient?”
Now What? “When do you need to slow down and observe carefully in daily life?”

Cleanup and Reset