Free Back to School Crossword Puzzle Printable

Back to school crossword puzzle printables are an easy way to get kids thinking while easing into a new school year.

This free puzzle includes 11 clues focused on school-themed words, perfect for elementary students on the first day back.

Whether you’re in the classroom or learning at home, it’s a fun, low-prep option to add to your collection of back to school worksheets.

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Back to School Printable Crossword Puzzle for Kids

Kick off the first day of school (or homeschool) with this free back to school crossword puzzle.

With 11 school-themed clues, it’s a fun way for kids to review vocabulary while settling into classroom routines.

Once they’ve solved the puzzle, they can color it in for a creative finish.

This two page printable includes the puzzle and an answer sheet. It’s free for personal or classroom use, just scroll to the bottom of the page to access the PDF.

Skills Covered by the Crossword Game

This printable crossword puzzle supports a mix of academic and independent learning skills:

• Vocabulary & spelling – reinforces school-related language
• Critical thinking – encourages logical clue-solving
• Problem-solving – boosts confidence in figuring things out independently
• Language arts review – ties into common back to school standards

It’s ideal for early finishers, quiet work time, or building focus during the first week back.

More Back to School Printables

Round out your first-week plans by pairing the crossword with these engaging printables:

• Vocabulary Boosters:
  • Back to school word search – great for reinforcing school-related terms
  • Back to school word scramble – adds a gentle challenge for early finishers
• Creative & Reflective Activities:
  • Back to school writing prompts – students reflect on their goals for the year ahead
  • Summer acrostic poem – helps bridge summer break and the school mindset
• Critical Thinking Games:
  • Printable sudoku for kids – builds logic and concentration
  • Back to school maze – a fun way to practice focus and problem-solving
  • Back to school scattergories – encourages quick thinking and creativity

These activities work well together to support literacy, independent thinking, and classroom engagement—all while keeping learning fun.

Best Puzzle Books for the First Week of School

Over the years, we’ve tried a bunch of puzzle books, and a few really stood out, especially during those first few weeks of school when routines are still settling.

These three have been favorites in our house (and in our homeschool co-op days too):

1. School Zone Big Hidden Pictures & More Workbook – This one kept my son quietly focused for ages. It mixes hidden pictures, mazes, and simple word puzzles—great for younger kids who aren’t ready for full crosswords yet.
2. Highlights Puzzler Collection – We’ve used this as a quiet morning warm-up. It’s packed with word games, logic puzzles, and visual challenges, and the school-themed pages made it feel like part of our “back to routine” vibe.
3. The Everything Kids’ Puzzle Book – This was our go-to for more of a challenge. It includes crosswords, riddles, and even codes to crack—perfect for older kids who like a bit of variety.

Looking for simple back to school gift ideas? Here’s a fun way to start the year off right.

Get the Free Back to School Printable Crossword Here!

Ready to grab your free printable? Just pop your name and email into the form below, and it’s all yours!

If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free school crossword puzzle.

Last Updated on 7 May 2025 by Clare Brown