Problem Solving Puzzle – Free PDF

Connect the Twins is a fun problem solving puzzle that challenges you to match pairs of faces by drawing connecting lines that never cross. This free printable is great for home, classroom, or library use, and it comes with the full solution included. You can download the free puzzle and answer key at the bottom of this post.

What’s Included in This Problem Solving Puzzle Printable

This free download includes Puzzle #11 from the Connect the Twins series. The puzzle page shows a five by five grid scattered with ten face icons that form five matching pairs, ready for kids to connect.

The directions are simple. Connect each set of matching faces with a line, and make sure no two lines cross. A solution page is included as well, showing the same grid with each matched pair joined by a red line so kids and adults can check their work.

This particular puzzle is part of the larger Connect the Twins Puzzle Packet, which includes many more numbered puzzles in the same style for extra practice.

Skills This Problem Solving Puzzle Supports

Connecting the matching pairs without crossing any lines asks kids to use several skills at once.

• Visual scanning and tracking: searching the grid to spot each face before drawing a single line
• Pattern recognition: noticing which faces are identical among several similar looking icons
• Problem solving: planning a path between two faces that will not cross any other connection
• Critical thinking: thinking ahead about how one line affects the routes still open for the rest of the puzzle
• Focus and attention: staying on task through all five connections
• Fine motor skills: drawing clean, controlled lines from one face to its match

These are the same kinds of skills kids rely on for reading, math, and everyday problem solving. Practicing them through a fun puzzle like this one makes the work feel like play instead of a worksheet.

How to Use This Problem Solving Puzzle Activity

This puzzle fits easily into a variety of settings.

• Home use for family game time or a quiet activity after school
• Classroom use as an early finisher task, morning work, or indoor recess option
• Library programs or story time as a quick brain break between activities
• Senior center or adult day program activities to support visual planning and focus

Tips and Variations

For younger children or those new to this type of puzzle, work through the first matching pair together before letting them try the rest on their own. Pointing out one face and asking them to find its match builds confidence before they tackle a full connection.

For an added challenge, set a timer and see how quickly the puzzle can be solved without crossing any lines. Older kids and adults can also cover the solution page and only check it after they finish.

Laminate the puzzle page and use a dry erase marker so it can be used again and again. For seniors, pair the activity with a short conversation about each face or about twins in general to add a social, memory boosting element.

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