Free Back to School Word Search Printable
This back to school word search isn’t just filler for the first day. It’s a quiet, focused activity that helps kids shift gears from summer to school mode.
With 20 familiar school-themed words, it’s a fun way to build vocabulary and ease first-week jitters.
If you’re looking for back to school printable worksheets that actually keep students engaged, this one’s a solid place to start.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Back to School Word Search Printable
Get ready for a fun and focused start to the school year with this classroom word search activity.
The word search printable includes two pages: one with the puzzle and one with the answer key.
Students will search for 20 school-themed words in all directions—horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards, and backwards—making this a slightly more challenging (and satisfying) activity.
Tip: Use a highlighter or circle the letters instead of crossing them out—some words share letters!
Words to find:
- School
- Bus
- Locker
- Playground
- Lunch
- Friends
- Math
- Classroom
- Pencil
- Teacher
- Principal
- Crayons
- Recess
- Hallway
- Books
- Study
- Backpack
- Science
- English
- Homework
A great pick for the first week of school, easy to prep, engaging, and vocabulary-friendly.
More First Week of School Worksheets
If you’re looking for more low-prep ways to ease into the year, these first week printables work well alongside the word search:
- First day of school crowns printables – A fun and creative way for kids to decorate something personal and wear it proudly on day one.
- Free printable back to school maze – A simple problem-solving activity that gets kids thinking while staying in the school spirit.
- All about me worksheet – Great for helping students share a bit about themselves and start building classroom connections.
- Back to school crossword puzzle – Another vocabulary-building word game that pairs well with the word search.
- Back to school craft from Darcy and Brian – A hands-on paper plate craft that adds a little art into the mix.
Best Back to School Read Alouds
Once the word puzzle is done, keep the first week fun going with these read alouds that help ease nerves and build classroom connection:
Crayons Go Back to School – The crayons return with all their usual personality as they prep for the new year. A light, colorful story about emotions, creativity, and starting fresh.
How Not To Start 3rd Grade – Will’s first day goes hilariously off track in this funny, relatable story about mishaps and making the best of new beginnings.
Dear Teacher – Told through a series of letters, this book captures kids’ first week feelings in a way that’s both honest and uplifting.
A Letter From Your Teacher – A warm, encouraging note from teacher to student that sets a hopeful tone for the year ahead.
WANT ALL OUR BACK TO SCHOOL ACTIVITIES IN ONE PLACE?
Get the Free Back to School Word Search Puzzle 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 word puzzle.
Last Updated on 27 May 2025 by Clare Brown