The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game Rules

Winter is coming! Help the squirrel collect matching colored acorns before time runs out. Players use a cute plastic Squirrel Squeezer to pick acorns from the tree developing fine-motor skills in this cooperative learning game. 

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is produced by Educational Insights and is one of their best-selling games, winning the Parents Choice Award in 2011. 

This Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game rules guide will cover the following:

  • What is the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game?
  • A brief history of the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game
  • What you’ll need to play the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game
  • Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game Rules
  • How to play the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game (Video Tutorial)
  • FAQs
  • Similar game guides

Read on to learn how to play the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game.

What is the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game?

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Board Game Info image

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is a beginner board game requiring very little skill. Geared for toddlers and preschool-aged children, players collect acorns to prepare for the winter season in this adorable game. 

Number of Players: 2-4 players

Ages: 3+

Difficulty: Easy

Length of Play: 15-20 minutes

Category: Learning game, children’s game, Cooperative game

Similar to: Hi-Ho Cherry-O, Pop-the-Pig, Snug as a Bug in a Rug

Main Objective:  Players work together to collect all the acorns before winter arrives. 

Why We Love It:  Cooperative learning games are excellent for youngsters who are still learning how to share and take turns. This game keeps everyone engaged and incorporates fine motor development and color recognition. 

A Brief History of the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game

Since 1962, Educational Insights have produced games and toys with an emphasis on children’s learning experiences. Their philosophy is to design games that allow children to learn through play. 

They offer a wide range of classroom products, including hands-on activities based on age range, special needs, and subject area. You can find puzzles, board games, craft supplies, and more. 

What You’ll Need to Play the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game

Everything you need to play is included in this boxed set. 

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Educational Insights The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game for Preschoolers & Toddlers
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The complete game box contains: 

  • 1 built-in game board 
  • 1 squirrel squeezer
  • 1 spinner
  • 4 tree logs
  • 20 acorns

Area of Play

Begin set up by opening the game box and removing all the components. The bottom of the box serves as your game box and is artfully designed to look like a tree. 

Set aside the spinner, the tree logs, and the squirrel squeezer. 

Place all the acorns randomly inside the tree-shaped box so they appear to be on or around the tree. 

Lastly, each player takes a log, and now you’re ready to play!

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game Rules

To start, the youngest player spins the spinner first. Players take turns in a counter-clockwise rotation as gameplay continues. 

If the spinner lands on a color, players must pinch a matching acorn with the squirrel squeezer and place it on the corresponding spot on their log. 

If that color is already filled on their log, the player loses their turn and passes the spinner to the next player. 

Spinner Selections

  1. One Acorn: If a player spins one acorn, they can select any color acorn to place on the corresponding area on their log. 
  2. Two Acorns: If a player spins two acorns, players can select any two acorns to collect for their log, as long as the color corresponds. 
  3. Sneaky Squirrel: Use the squirrel squeezer to steal an acorn from an opponent’s log!
  4. Sad Squirrel: Pass the squirrel squeezer to the player on your left, and you lose your turn. 
  5. Squirrel Storm: A great wind blew all your acorns away! Put all your acorns back on the tree. 

How to Keep Score in the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game

There is no specific scorekeeping method involved in this game. However, the first player to collect all of their acorns wins! 

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is fun for teaching young children how to follow the rules, take turns, match colors, and develop patience. 

How to Play the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game – Video Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do you play the card game Sneaky Snacky Squirrel? 

The card-game version of The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is also recommended for 3-5-year-olds. Similar to the board game, players must identify colors and collect the most acorns by slapping the cards quickly.

Who makes the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel game?

The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game is produced by Educational Insights. For the last 60 years, the Educational Insights team has developed games and toys based on creativity and child development. 

Other Games Similar to the Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game (Our Guides)

Be sure to check out these other interactive learning games for children: 

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Read all the articles (69) written by Andrea Huguley