Christmas Word Search Printable: Free Word Lists and Tips by Age
A Christmas word search is the easiest no-prep activity for the busy weeks of December. It keeps kids busy at the kids' table, works as a calm-down activity after a class party, and gives grandparents something to do with the grandkids. The trick is matching the word list to the age: short, simple words in a small grid for little kids, and longer, harder words that run backwards and diagonally for teens and adults. Below are free word lists you can use to make your own, plus a printable pack if you would rather just print and go.
Practical tips
- Ages 4-6 (8x8 grid, across and down only): TREE, STAR, BELL, GIFT, SNOW, ELF, TOY, BOW.
- Ages 7-9 (12x12 grid, add diagonals): REINDEER, STOCKING, SNOWMAN, COOKIE, SLEIGH, WREATH, CANDY CANE, ORNAMENT.
- Ages 10+ and adults (15x15, backwards and diagonal): POINSETTIA, NUTCRACKER, MISTLETOE, GINGERBREAD, EVERGREEN, CHESTNUTS, FESTIVITIES, YULETIDE.
- Class party tip: print one per child plus five spares, and hand out crayons instead of pencils for the youngest group.
- Family gathering tip: make it a race in teams of two, with a small prize for the first pair to finish.
- Car trip tip: clip the sheet to a clipboard or a cereal-box back so it doesn't slide around.
Frequently asked questions
What age is a Christmas word search good for?
From about age 4 with a small grid and simple words, all the way to adults with large grids and backwards or diagonal words.
How many words should a Christmas word search have?
About 8 for young kids, 12 to 15 for school-age kids, and 20 or more for teens and adults.
Can I use word searches at a school Christmas party?
Yes. They are quiet, need no setup and work for mixed ages, which makes them a good station or a fast-finisher activity.