Lunar New Year Sudoku

Develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills with this Lunar New Year Themed Year 1 Picture-Based Logic Puzzle. This engaging reasoning activity uses pictures rather than numbers, making it accessible while encouraging children to think systematically and apply simple rules. Children are prompted to study each row and column and decide which Lunar New Year picture belongs in each empty box. The key rule is that each picture can only appear once in each row and once in each column, supporting the development of logical reasoning, pattern recognition and visual discrimination. This activity is suitable for Year 1 children who are confident recognising pictures and are beginning to solve problems independently. As they work through the puzzle, children are encouraged to explain their thinking, using simple reasoning such as “I know this picture goes here because…” or “It cannot be this picture because…”. This helps develop mathematical language, reasoning skills and confidence. Ideal for maths lessons, early morning work, challenge tasks or linked provision, this Lunar New Year–themed puzzle offers a calm yet stimulating way to build reasoning skills within a fun and engaging context.