Free Animals Word Search Printable for Kids

Engage young learners with this Animals Word Search Worksheet — a fun, low-prep printable to build animal vocabulary and sharpen their observation skills. Perfect for classrooms, homeschooling, or rainy day activities, this worksheet makes learning about animals playful and creative.

What’s Included

Kids will hunt for and circle names of animals such as:

• BEAR, TIGER, LION

• ELEPHANT, GIRAFFE, RHINO

• SQUIRREL, MONKEY, MOUSE

• HIPPO, PARROT, ZEBRA

Inside the worksheet you’ll find:

• A letter grid containing the hidden animal names

• A word bank / list of animals to find

• Themed animal illustrations to delight students

• Extra decorative elements and space around the puzzle

Why This Worksheet Works

• Reinforces vocabulary — Students become more familiar with animal names, including exotic ones.

• Boosts spelling & recognition — Word search format gives repeated exposure to letter sequences.

• Supports concentration & scanning — Finding words in a grid builds visual attention skills.

• Versatile & fun — Ideal for centers, early finishers, independent work, or as a brain break.

How to Use It — Step by Step

1. Print the sheet — Use standard paper or cardstock; you can laminate if you want reuse with dry-erase markers.

2. Introduce the list — Go over each animal name briefly and perhaps show pictures if needed.

3. Explain search rules — Words may run forward, backward, vertical, horizontal, or even diagonally (if that’s the case).

4. Let kids hunt and circle — Encourage them to cross off words on the list as they find them.

5. Review together — After all words are found, discuss any tricky ones or ask students to pick a favorite animal to talk about.

6. Extension ideas

   • Ask students to draw one of the animals and write 1–2 facts about it.

   • Use the found words in sentences or a short paragraph.

   • Turn it into a timed challenge or partner competition.

Tip: Use colored pencils or highlighters so the overlapping letters remain visible if words cross.

This Animals Word Search Worksheet combines learning and play — perfect for animal units, zoo themes, or anytime kids want a fun vocabulary challenge. Be sure to include a print/download button so visitors can easily grab their own copy.