Bookishly Fun Puzzles and Games for Kids and Teens
by Dena McMurdie
If you’re looking for some screen-free activities to keep your kids occupied, happy, and out of your hair, you’re in luck. My kids love books of puzzles and games. We use them as boredom busters while my kids are out of school, on vacation, or during quiet time. Here are some fantastic books and puzzles that you’ll want to have on hand all summer long.
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Farm Puzzle and Sticker Book
Take a trip to the farm with this adorable puzzle and matching sticker book. Young children will enjoy piecing together the sturdy puzzle to reveal a bustling farm scene. Once they’re finished with the puzzle, crack open the reusable sticker book for extra fun.
(Ages 3 – 6) -
Junie B. Jones: These Puzzles Hurt My Brain Book
Available from:Join beloved children’s book character Junie B. Jones in completing this book of puzzles. You’ll find mazes, dot-to-dots, writing activities, word games, secret codes, and more. This book of games and puzzles is perfect for fans of the classic series.
(Ages 6 – 9)Also available from: -
Games and Puzzles from the Tree House
Available from:Jack and Annie have been on dozens of adventures, and now kids can go on their own magic tree house adventure with this book of puzzles. With over 200 interactive challenges taken from the popular series, kids can dive deeper into the world of the magic tree house.
(Ages 6 – 9)Also available from: -
Longest Hidden Pictures Puzzle Ever
Most kids can pore over hidden picture puzzles for hours on end, and this book offers them a unique challenge. Fold-out the pages to expose a 16-foot long puzzle, then see how many of the 280 hidden items you can locate.
(Ages 7+) -
Professor Astro Cat’s Frontiers of Space 500 Piece Puzzle
Available from:Nothing keeps kids busy like a jigsaw puzzle. With 500 pieces, it’s enough to offer children a challenge without becoming too difficult. Kids can piece together the wonders of the galaxy as they complete this puzzle. It also includes a poster with a search-and-find picture puzzle.
(Ages 7 – 10)Also available from: -
Ultimate Puzzle Challenge
Available from:Avid puzzlers looking for a challenge will go nuts over this big book. From mazes and hidden pictures to Sudoku and logic puzzles, kids will find no shortage of games to keep their minds sharp. Hand your kid this book and a pencil and watch as they get lost in hours of fun.
(Ages 8 – 12)Also available from: -
The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth Puzzle
Available from:Explore the Earth’s ecosystems with this 500 piece jigsaw puzzle. Perfect for kids (and adults) that love science and nature, this puzzle makes a fantastic rainy day activity. So the next time you’re stuck inside with nothing to do, take this puzzle out and start snapping pieces together.
(Ages 10+)Also available from: -
Women in Science Puzzle
Available from:Fans of the popular book Women in Science will love the matching puzzle. Meet some of the most influential female scientists in history as you piece together this 500 piece jigsaw puzzle. It’s a great activity to do as a family or individually.
(Ages 10+)Also available from: -
Dreamland: A 500-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle and Stickers
Available from:Best known for “doodle bombing” over prominent magazine covers, Hattie Stewart’s art has a bold and playful style that lends itself perfectly to puzzles. Her joyous creativity bursts from every inch of this psychedelic piece of art in puzzle form. Featuring an array of hearts, rainbows, space dust, and flowers, the intricate design offers a delightful challenge for more advanced puzzlers.
(Ages 13+)Also available from: