Sudoku for Kids #18
sudoku · ages 5-8 · medium
Editorial team · Published July 9, 2026

Solve this exact puzzle on screen — free, nothing to install.
Add a name, change the title and print your own version — free, in your browser.
Welcome to Sudoku for Kids #18, a medium-difficulty 6x6 sudoku grid designed for ages 5-8. This free printable features a clear, bold grid with 2x3 boxes, ensuring crisp lines when printed at home. About half the numbers, from 1 to 6, are already filled in, providing a satisfying starting point for young solvers. The challenge and satisfaction come from completing each row, column, and 2x3 box so that every number from 1 to 6 appears exactly once.
To tackle this specific sudoku, we recommend starting by scanning each 2x3 box first. Look for boxes that already have four or five numbers filled in. Focusing on these nearly complete boxes allows a child to quickly identify the missing one or two numbers. For example, if a box contains 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6, the missing number is clearly 4. Once a number is placed, check that row and column to see if it helps fill another empty space.
This Sudoku for Kids #18 primarily practices logical reasoning and number recognition. Children must analyze the existing numbers and deduce which ones are missing, developing their problem-solving skills. The clear, distinct numbers from 1 to 6 reinforce early numeracy while the grid structure introduces foundational pattern recognition, crucial for mathematical thinking.
A practical idea for parents or teachers is to laminate this page after printing. Children can then use a dry-erase marker to solve the sudoku, allowing for repeated use and practice. This also offers a low-pressure way to try different solutions or erase mistakes, making the learning process more flexible and fun without needing to print multiple copies.
Teacher notes
Skills practiced
- Logical reasoning and elimination
- Number recognition and one-to-one checking
- Persistence with a multi-step problem
- Explaining reasoning aloud: "this must be a 3 because..."
Suggested use in class
- Math warm-up projected on the board, solved together
- Independent center with the answer key face-down for self-checking (pair up students who need support)
Time estimate
10–15 minutes
Materials
- Printed page
- Pencil with eraser
Download & print — it's free
US Letter (8.5×11"). Print at home, no sign-up needed.
Tip: set your printer to “Fit to page” for best results.
Includes answer key (page 2 of the PDF)
Print just page 1 for the puzzle, or both pages to keep the solution handy for checking.
Show answerHide answer

More printables you'll like
Frequently asked questions
Is this sudoku size right for a beginner?
Smaller grids are the on-ramp: 4×4 boards suit first-timers, 6×6 suits kids who've solved a few and want more of a challenge. This 6×6 is a good step up once the 4×4s feel easy.
How long should a kids' sudoku take?
Anywhere from five minutes to half an hour is normal, and speed doesn't matter. If it's over in two minutes, move up a grid size; if it stalls completely, solve the next number together and hand the pencil back.
What age is the Sudoku for Kids #18 for?
It's aimed at kids ages 5–8 — enough detail to be interesting without being fiddly. Younger siblings can join in with help, and the range is a guide, not a gate: match the child, not the label.



