Word Search Game for Kids

Winter Word Search Puzzles (Grades 2-4) – printable PDF cover

Pick a level and find every hidden word. Each new game has a fresh grid and a new topic such as animals, space or food, so there is always another one to try. It works on a phone, a tablet or a computer, with no sign-up.

Play word search online

How to play

  • Look at the word list under the grid.
  • Tap the first letter of a word, then the last letter. You can also drag across it.
  • Found words are crossed off the list. Stuck? Press Hint and the first letter of a word will flash.

Choose a level

  • Easy: a small 8 by 8 grid with 6 words that run across or down. A good start for new readers.
  • Medium: a 10 by 10 grid with 8 words, and some of them run diagonally.
  • Hard: a 12 by 12 grid with 10 words in all directions, including backwards.

Why kids benefit

  • They read and spell real words again and again without it feeling like practice.
  • Scanning a grid builds attention and patience.
  • A short game gives a quick win, which works well as a brain break between lessons.

Prefer paper?

See our word search printables for kids for sets by theme and level.

Questions parents and teachers ask

What age is this word search for?

Easy suits most kids who can read short words, usually from about 6. Hard is a good challenge for ages 9 and up, and for grown-ups too.

Do we need an account?

No. There is nothing to sign up for and no child data is collected. The number of games solved is kept only in your own browser.

Can I use it in class?

Yes. Put it on a classroom screen and let the group call out the words, or use it for early finishers.

More to play: all online games, today’s puzzles and math crosswords.