Sudoku for kids: 4x4

Sudoku is a great puzzle for children. It builds patience, careful thinking and a bit of confidence, and there is no maths involved at all. The digits are just symbols. They could as easily be shapes, colours or animals.

The puzzles on this page are smaller than the full grid, which makes them a gentle place to start. They suit children aged roughly 5 to 10, but every child is different, so let them try and see.

4 by 4 puzzles

The smallest grid has 4 rows, 4 columns and 4 boxes of 2 by 2 cells. It uses the digits 1 to 4. These are ideal for younger children, or anyone trying sudoku for the very first time. Most take only a few minutes.

6 by 6 puzzles

The next step up has 6 rows, 6 columns and 6 boxes of 2 rows by 3 columns. It uses the digits 1 to 6. These suit children who have got the hang of the 4 by 4 and want something with a bit more to it.

How to explain sudoku to a child

Keep it simple. You might say:

“Every row needs one of each number. Every column needs one of each number. And every little box needs one of each number. No number can be in the same row, column or box twice.”

Then do the first one together. Point to an empty cell and ask, “Which numbers are already in this row? Which ones are in this column? So what is missing?” Let them find the answer. That moment of working it out is the fun part.

Some tips that help:

• Start with a 4 by 4, even if they are older. Early success matters.
• Let them use a pencil and rubber on printed puzzles. Mistakes are part of learning.
• If they get stuck, ask a question rather than giving the answer.
• Praise the thinking, not just the finished grid.

For teachers

Our printable puzzles work well in class, as a morning starter or a quiet activity. You are welcome to print as many copies as you need for your class.

A few ideas:

• Do a 4 by 4 together on the board first, talking through each step out loud.
• Pair children up so they can explain their thinking to each other.
• Try a “puzzle of the week” on the wall, with a new grid each Monday.
• Mix 4 by 4 and 6 by 6 sheets so every child has the right level of challenge.

When your class is ready for more, the printables page has full-size puzzles too.