This fruit hoop summer sudoku logic puzzle for kids is a way to introduce kids as young as preschool to the rules of Sudoku and how to use logical reasoning to solve problems.
Sudoku is a great activity to strengthen logical reasoning skills and decomposition skills while working with a simple algorithm, or a series of instructions for solving problems.
What is Computational Thinking?
Computational thinking refers to problem solving that involves thinking about a problem in a way that can be solved by using computing tools like logic, decomposition, abstractions, algorithms, patterns, data collection and analysis, and simulation or modeling.
Computational thinking can be used to solve problems in almost all areas of our lives and helps kids develop some pretty great life skills that can apply to a variety of situations.
A computational thinker approaches problems by experimenting and playing to solve a problem that might have more than one possible solution. It also involves working together with others to reach a common goal and persevering when faced with a difficult problem.
STEAM activities reinforce computational thinking skills by helping kids to find and fix errors in complex problems and design and make solutions for open-ended problems.
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Logical Reasoning
Logical reasoning is the ability to analyze and make predictions about things or explaining why something is the way that it is.
Fruit hoop Sudoku is a great puzzle to use to emphasize the concept of logical reasoning by explaining why a certain fruit hoop color cannot go in a certain space.
Due to the rules of the puzzle, kids will learn to speak to why each block cannot contain certain fruit hoop colors, which helps them to identify the solution.
How to Play Fruit Hoop Summer Sudoku
This sudoku activity is most effective when it is modeled by an adult or older sibling before starting. For example, solve one block space and explain why the square can’t contain certain fruit hoop colors.
Repeat the process for columns and rows as well as squares. Use the following rules to reference when modeling your logical reasoning.
- Each fruit hoop color can only appear once in each row
- There can only be one fruit hoop color in each column
- Each fruit hoop color can only appear once in each 2×2 block
Use an Algorithm to Solve Your Fruit Hoop Sudoku Puzzle
An algorithm is a series of instructions to solve a problem. Begin with teaching the rules of Sudoku. You can turn these rules into an algorithm that automates how you are solving each square.
Repeat your algorithm over and over again. Think about how this process starts with a series of steps and evolves into a program that is written for a computer to automate a task. Sudoku like a robot! For example,
- Choose square
- Check row for fruit hoop color
- Check column for fruit hoop color
- Check box for fruit hoop color
- Determine answer
Check out this coding activity: Introduce Computer Programming with this Elementary Coding Activity
Use Decomposition to Simplify Your Fruity Summer Sudoku Puzzle
Decomposition is the process of breaking down a complex problem into smaller, easier to solve, pieces. Focus on each 2X2 grid. Try to solve each square by using the fruit hoop colors in the block and following rule #3.
Another way to use decomposition (my personal favorite!) is to work on one letter at a time. For example, start with the pineapple and work your way through the rest of the fruit.
Fruit Hoop Summer Fruit Sudoku for Preschoolers to 3rd Grade
The worksheet bundle contains printable fruit hoop colored pieces and summer fruit pieces that you can cut out to use again and again with your puzzle as well as an answer sheet and blank grid for you to create your own puzzles.
Use the fruit pieces to solve this Sudoku worksheet with your preschool through 3rd grade kiddo. Remember to model the logical reasoning process.
For example, solve one block space and explain why the square can’t be a certain fruit. Repeat the process for columns and rows as well as squares.
For a fun twist, you can even use circle stickers or bingo daubers to complete your puzzles!!
Favorite Worksheet Supplies
Check out our most used worksheet supplies and grab them today!
You might also enjoy: Practice Logical Reasoning with Letter Sudoku Unplugged Activity for Kids
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Meet Toni, the Maker Mom behind Our Family Code
Hey there, I’m Toni! I’m a software engineer and Maker Mom that finds my joy in unleashing my children’s curiosity by exploring STEAM concepts with my fantastic five!
When I’m not chasing toddlers or raising tweens, you can find me tearing things up and putting them back together over here at Our Family Code.
I am the owner and content creator of multiple educational websites designed to increase access to STEAM & STEM education with a focus on teaching computer science and coding to kids of all ages!
You can also find out more about me by visiting ToniGardner.com!
