How to Write Crossword Clues for Kids

1. Pick words that can cross

Imagine a pond by a farm gate. Pick FROG, GOAT and GATE. FROG and GOAT share O and G; GOAT and GATE share G, A and T. A crossword needs shared letters so its answers can connect, but the maker chooses their exact positions.

The manual crossword maker accepts 3–15 different answers of 2–12 letters each. Start with three; if one cannot be placed, try another word with more shared letters.

2. Make each clue specific

Say the clue aloud without its answer. “It jumps” could describe many things; the sound and setting make the FROG clue easier to distinguish.

3. Build and check the puzzle

1. Enter each answer and its clue in a separate row of the maker, then choose Make crossword. Typing your own words and clues does not require signing in; the separate AI topic option does.
2. Read each Across and Down clue against the resulting grid. At a crossing, both words must use the same letter. If the maker says a word could not connect, change or add an answer with shared letters and regenerate.
3. Choose whether to Include answers at the bottom, then use Print on the generated puzzle. The maker prints from that page; this guide does not create clues automatically or provide a separate answer download.

First time solving a crossword? Try the across-and-down beginner guide and a ready-made animal crossword, or browse all crosswords.