A hidden winker discreetly signals players while a detective tries to identify them before too many signals land.
- Players
- 7–25
- Ages
- 10+
- Play time
- 15–25 min
- Supplies
- None
- Where
- Indoors / Outdoors
- Energy
- Low
READY IN 2 MINUTES
Get set up
No equipment is required. Gather the group where everyone can hear the explanation and demonstrate one sample turn before starting.
LET’S PLAY
Here’s how it works.
- Choose a detective and have them close their eyes or step away.
- Secretly choose the winker.
- Players make normal eye contact around the circle.
- When the winker signals someone, that player waits a moment then gives a simple caught signal.
- The detective gets a limited number of guesses before roles rotate.
A few ground rules
Keep the agreed turn order, boundaries and timing consistent for everyone. Players may pass or use an accessibility adaptation without penalty.
Mix it up
Use a subtle hand signal instead of winking or add a second detective.
Make it a great round
No dramatic falling is needed; a raised hand is enough to show someone was caught.
Keep everyone comfortable
Invite players to pass or adapt the activity. Keep walkways clear and choose a seated version when movement is unsuitable.