Riddle Writing Workshop

Paper or index cards

Pencil for writing

Markers for decorating

Read 3-4 example riddles together to understand the format.

Discuss what makes a good riddle: descriptive clues, a surprising answer.

Choose an object for the first riddle: a book, shoe, or tree.

Brainstorm clues: "What does it look like? What does it do? What's special?"

Write 3 clues + "What am I?" using the template.

Test on a family member. Adjust difficulty.

Write 3-4 riddles total, each on its own decorated card.

Host a riddle show for the family.

Writing riddles is one of the most cognitively demanding language activities because it requires thinking about an object from someone ELSE's perspective. Your child knows the answer — the challenge is describing it without making it obvious. That's perspective-taking and descriptive language at an advanced level.

The "I have ___ but I can't ___" structure is perfect for beginners because it provides a framework. The contrast (has hands/can't clap) is what makes riddles tricky and fun.

If your child's first riddles are too easy ("I'm orange and you eat me" for a carrot), that's fine. Getting harder comes with practice and feedback.

Compile riddles into a "Riddle Book" over time. Kids love having a growing collection of their original work.

This is a wonderful writing activity for kids who resist traditional writing. They're writing with purpose — to trick people — which is highly motivating.