The big sudoku
The 9×9 sudoku is the classic sudoku that adults solve in newspapers: 81 squares, nine boxes of 3×3 and the numbers 1 to 9. Here kids can also choose animals, fruit or shapes instead of numbers – and switch at any time, even in the middle of a puzzle.
When are kids ready for 9×9?
Many children manage their first 9×9 on “Easy” at around age 8 – especially after some practice with the 4×4 and 6×6 sudoku. On “Easy”, at least 40 squares are given, which makes it easier to get going. Tips for parents: sudoku for 8-year-olds.
Strategies for the 9×9
- Only one option: for an empty square, check which numbers are already in its row, column and box. If only one is left, write it in.
- Hidden single: for one number, check where it can still go in a box. If there is just one square, that’s its place.
- Work systematically: go through the numbers from 1 to 9 one by one, so nothing gets missed.
9×9 in level mode
In level mode, the 9×9 puzzles start at level 201 in the forest world – and get trickier step by step up to level 1000 in the kingdom. Every solved level earns stars, which unlock new symbol sets such as vehicles, sea animals and space.
9×9 Sudoku for Kids – printable PDF worksheets
Each PDF has 6 puzzles on A4 paper and the answers at the end – just tap, download and print.
Frequently asked questions
Isn’t a 9×9 sudoku too hard for kids?
On “Easy”, with lots of given squares, many children can do it from about age 8. If in doubt, start with 4×4 or 6×6.
Can my child use pictures instead of numbers?
Yes. Animals, fruit, shapes and the unlockable sets each have nine symbols.
Do the printable 9×9 worksheets include answers?
Yes. Every PDF ends with answer pages – the 9×9 answers take up two pages.
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