Sudoku for Kids: Free Printable Mini Puzzles

Mini Sudoku is the gentle way into the classic puzzle: fewer squares, smaller numbers and the same rules. Every sheet here prints on one page with the answers on the next, and every puzzle can also be played on screen.

How to play

Fill every empty square with a number.
Each row uses every number once.
Each column uses every number once.
Each box, the squares inside the thick lines, uses every number once.

Which size to start with

4×4: the first step

Numbers 1 to 4 and boxes of 2 by 2. A good first puzzle for a child who can count to four.

6×6: the next step

Numbers 1 to 6 and boxes of 2 rows by 3 columns. More to keep track of, the same three rules.

9×9: the classic

Numbers 1 to 9 and boxes of 3 by 3, the size in newspapers and in our app.

Tips for parents and teachers

Solve the first puzzle together and think out loud: "This row already has 1, 2 and 4, so this square must be 3."
Start with a row, column or box that has only one empty square left. That square is the easiest one on the board.
Use a pencil, so a mistake is easy to rub out.
Every puzzle here has exactly one answer and never needs guessing. If a child gets stuck, look for a number that fits in only one square.
Print the answer page on its own and keep it with the grown-up.

What children practise

Sudoku has no adding up: the numbers are only symbols, so a child who can recognise them can play. What they practise is looking carefully, ruling things out and checking their own work.

Ready for more?

When 6×6 feels easy, a child is ready for the full 9×9 puzzle. Our Find the Mistake sheets and the technique lessons are the next step.

Printable Sudoku puzzles →