Ten Commandments Puzzles for Kids

Word Scrambles

• Word scrambles allow children to test their memory of the Ten Commandments. Create a word scramble by rearranging the words in each commandment so they are out of order. While Ten Commandments word scrambles are available online, you can create your own easily with a word-processing computer program. Print a copy for each child and have him rearrange the wording on the paper so the commandments read properly. Increase the difficulty depending upon the children's ages.

Word Searches

• Word searches use a grid of letters typically arranged in a square or rectangle. In this puzzle, words are hidden within the grid horizontally, diagonally, vertically, even backward. Create a Ten Commandments word search for children by using key words from the commandments such as "covet," "God," "husband," "murder" and "lie." Words to be found are displayed in a list below or beside the puzzle. Add an extra element of fun by providing children with a variety of brightly colored markers to use to circle words as they find them.

Crossword Puzzles

• Crossword puzzles are another interactive way to help children learn about the Ten Commandments. These puzzles use a grid of blocks that are filled in according to a list of clues. The boxes and clues are typically numbered and divided into "across" and "down." Use key words from the commandments as the answers to the clues and be sure to tailor the difficulty to the age of the children. Crossword puzzles are beneficial because children must understand the commandments to be able to answer the clues correctly.

Fill in the Blanks

• A fill-in-the-blanks puzzle encourages children to memorize the Ten Commandments. Instead of scrambling the words in each of the commandments, leave blank spaces where the key words are. The children must read the commandments and correctly fill in the missing words. This is an engaging activity that tests children's knowledge of the commandments. For added difficulty, leave entire sections of the commandments blank instead of single words.

Matching Pieces

• Have children work together to create a drawing of the stone tablets on a large sheet of cardboard or poster board. The Ten Commandments should be written on the stone tablets in large print. Use a pencil to lightly draw jigsaw puzzle pieces, or even basic squares, over the entirety of the poster. Cut along the lines to create a large puzzle for children to put back together correctly. For a smaller puzzle, you can cut up a sheet of paper listing the Ten Commandments and encourage children to put it back together.