4×4 Sudoku for Kids
A 4×4 Sudoku is a small grid for a first puzzle. Use the digits 1, 2, 3, and 4. Each row, each column, and each 2×2 box needs every digit once.
Some numbers are already filled in. Those stay put. The rest of the cells are yours. When the grid follows the rules and matches the puzzle’s single solution, it is done.
Select an empty cell, then choose a digit. Given numbers stay fixed.
Rules for kids
- Look at a row. Which digits are missing?
- The same digit cannot sit twice in that row, in that column, or in that box.
- If a cell has only one digit that fits, write it in.
- Given numbers are clues. Leave them where they are.
On this 4x4 grid the digits are 1–4. The box to check is each 2×2 box.
Notes for parents
- Start with one row or one box, not the whole grid.
- Ask “what is missing?” before suggesting a digit.
- A wrong digit that repeats a neighbor breaks a rule. A digit that does not repeat can still be the wrong one for this puzzle — that is what Check puzzle is for.
- Show solution is there when you want the answer key. Printing puts that key on the next page.
The other kids grid is 6×6 Sudoku for Kids. Full-size puzzles start at Easy Sudoku, with paper copies on printable easy Sudoku. Rules for the 9×9 grid are in how Sudoku works.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the rules of 4×4 Sudoku?
- Place 1, 2, 3, and 4 so each row, each column, and each 2×2 box contains each digit once. Numbers already printed cannot be changed.
- How can a parent help without solving it?
- Ask which digits are missing in one row, then in that cell’s column and 2×2 box. If only one digit is left, that is the placement. The check button marks digits that break a rule or do not match the solution.
- Can I print the 4×4 puzzle?
- Yes. Print this puzzle prints the grid on the page. The solution is included on the following printed page.
- Is there a larger kids grid?
- Yes. 6×6 Sudoku uses digits 1–6 and 2×3 boxes.