The mix between the virtual and the real
As hotels evolve to meet the needs of traveling families, keeping kids entertained is more important than ever. In 2024, new, creative activities are becoming essential for hotels looking to stand out and offer memorable experiences for young guests. Here are five engaging activities that will keep kids entertained and immersed in fun.
Treasure Hunt Adventure with QR Code Clues
One of the most exciting and immersive activities hotels can offer is a Treasure Hunt that combines pre-recorded videos with interactive, in-person exploration. This experience is perfect for kids of all ages and keeps them on their toes as they search the hotel grounds for hidden clues.
How it works? - The hotel creates a storyline involving a fun character like a pirate or a mysterious guest from the future.
- Pre-recorded videos of the character give clues that guide the children to various locations around the hotel.
- Clues are hidden by hotel guides, and each location has a QR code the kids must scan to receive the next video clue.
- Older kids (13+) can go on the adventure independently, while younger ones can be guided by their parents or hotel staff, split into teams.
Just Dance Competition in the Hotel Playroom
For active kids who love to move, a Just Dance competition in the hotel playroom is an absolute hit. This activity combines physical movement with a bit of friendly competition, ensuring that kids burn off some energy while having a blast.
How it works? - Set up a game console and large TV in the hotel playroom.
- Kids take turns or dance in groups, following the choreography on screen.
- Points are awarded based on accuracy and energy.
- The competition can be run in rounds, with small prizes for the top performers or simply the joy of participation.
This dance competition provides an energetic and social activity, perfect for kids who want to show off their moves and enjoy the music.
Making a Video Clip with the Guide’s Smartphone
For budding directors and actors, creating their own video clip can be an unforgettable experience. This activity not only entertains kids but also sparks their creativity as they take on roles in a fun video project.
How it works? - The guide starts by showing the kids a completed video clip on a TV screen to give them an idea of the final product.
- Each child is assigned a role, such as an actor, singer, or background dancer.
- The guide captures short videos of the kids performing their parts.
- After the activity, the guide edits the clips into a fun video.
- The completed video is sent to the parents or directly to the kids if they have their own phones.
Not only does this activity engage kids in performance and creativity, but they also get a tangible result they can share with family and friends after their hotel stay.
Interactive Drawing Game with Tablet and TV
For kids who love to draw, an interactive drawing game is a perfect blend of art and play. This group activity uses a tablet or smartphone to cast drawings onto a TV screen, adding an element of fun competition.
How it works? - The guide casts a drawing app from a tablet or smartphone to a TV in the playroom.
- One child at a time takes a turn drawing something from the room (e.g., an object, animal, or shape) on the tablet.
- The other kids watch the drawing unfold on the TV and race to find the object the drawing represents in the room.
- The first child to correctly identify and grab the object wins a small prize.
This game encourages creativity, observation, and friendly competition, making it an ideal group activity for kids.
Fishy: Create Your Own Virtual Fish Tank - swimfishy.com
Fishy is a one-of-a-kind activity that seamlessly combines traditional coloring with modern technology. Kids get to color their own fish, which are then brought to life in a virtual aquarium. This creative activity is sure to captivate young minds and give them a sense of accomplishment.
How it works? - Kids start by coloring fish-themed pages that are either printed or downloaded from the Fishy app. The hotel can cusomize the coloring pages and add their own logo etc..
- Once they finish their artwork, the guide or parents use the Fishy app (app.swimfishy.com) to scan the coloring pages.
- The app automatically crops the fish and animates it, allowing the kids' colorful creations to swim around in a virtual fish tank.
- The virtual fish tank can be displayed on a TV in the playroom, creating an immersive and magical experience for the kids as they watch their fish come to life.
Fishy blends creativity with technology, offering kids an interactive experience that goes beyond simple arts and crafts. It’s a fun and educational activity that families can enjoy together during their hotel stay.
Conclusion: Innovative Play for Every Child
In 2024, hotel playrooms can offer more than just traditional games and toys. By incorporating activities like high-tech treasure hunts, dance competitions, video-making sessions, drawing games, and Fishy’s creative digital aquarium, hotels can keep kids engaged, entertained, and asking to come back for more. These activities offer a memorable experience that families will cherish long after their stay ends, making hotels with such offerings a prime destination for traveling families.