In an age of digital distractions, finding family-friendly programming that both entertains and educates can feel like striking gold. PBS Kids, a name trusted by generations, offers just that—a rich lineup of shows designed to spark curiosity, nurture empathy, and boost literacy and STEM skills. But what if watching these shows could become an even richer, interactive experience? At The Kids Point, we believe that combining PBS Kids programming with brain-teasing games like 7 Little Words transforms screen time into an active, imaginative journey. Let’s explore how!
Why PBS Kids Is So Beloved
PBS Kids stands out for its educational mission: creating content backed by research and child development principles. Unlike many channels focused mainly on entertainment, PBS Kids prioritizes:
- Early literacy and language skills
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) concepts
- Social-emotional learning
- Diversity and inclusion
From Sesame Street, which first aired in 1969, to modern favorites like Wild Kratts and Molly of Denali, PBS Kids programming is intentionally crafted to help children learn about the world—and about themselves.
Introducing 7 Little Words: Puzzles for Curious Minds
7 Little Words is a word puzzle game with a fresh twist. Instead of filling in squares like a crossword, players are given:
- Seven clues
- Letter fragments
- The goal: combine fragments to form words matching the clues
These puzzles help kids develop:
- Vocabulary
- Spelling
- Critical thinking
- Memory recall
What makes them even more engaging? Designing themed puzzles based on shows kids already love, making learning feel like play.
Pairing PBS Kids Shows with 7 Little Words
Below, we explore popular PBS Kids shows that naturally lend themselves to fun, educational word puzzles—complete with ideas for puzzle clues to get you started.
WordGirl: Power of Language
WordGirl is a superhero whose greatest power is her command of language. Puzzles inspired by this show could include:
- Hero’s everyday name (Becky)
- Sidekick’s name (Captain Huggy Face)
- Villains (The Butcher, Lady Redundant Woman)
- Favorite activities (Reading, Learning)
Because WordGirl introduces challenging vocabulary in context, using these words in puzzles helps cement them in young minds.
Wild Kratts: Animal Adventures
Wild Kratts combines excitement and biology. Puzzle ideas:
- Fast feline (Cheetah)
- Turtle-shaped HQ (Tortuga)
- Special suits (Creature Power Suits)
- Hosts’ names (Chris & Martin)
Children learn animal facts during episodes, then recall them through word puzzles.
Curious George: Everyday Curiosity
George’s adventures spark interest in science and problem-solving. Puzzles could feature:
- Friend who wears yellow (The Man with the Yellow Hat)
- Favorite snack (Banana)
- Place George visits (Museum)
- What George is (Monkey)
These reinforce themes of curiosity and hands-on discovery.
Molly of Denali: Culture and Community
Molly of Denali introduces Alaska Native culture, geography, and family life. Puzzle clues might be:
- Molly’s dog (Suki)
- Her hometown (Qyah)
- State she lives in (Alaska)
- Common outdoor activity (Dog sledding)
This helps kids remember unique cultural facts and vocabulary.
Odd Squad: Math Meets Mystery
Young agents solve peculiar math problems. Puzzle clue ideas:
- Boss’s nickname (Ms. O)
- Math tool (Gadget)
- Their HQ feature (Tube Transport)
- What they solve (Odd Problems)
This builds math vocabulary in a fun, story-based context.
Arthur: Lessons in Friendship
Arthur is full of characters and relatable school scenarios. Puzzle clues:
- Arthur’s sister (D.W.)
- Best friend (Buster)
- School subject (Reading)
- His pet (Pal)
It helps kids remember character relationships and everyday vocabulary.
Sesame Street: Iconic Learning
No list is complete without Sesame Street. Puzzles might include:
- Big yellow bird (Big Bird)
- Green trash can friend (Oscar)
- Cookie lover (Cookie Monster)
- Red character (Elmo)
Kids get letter practice, phonics, and word recognition by linking these familiar characters with spelling challenges.
How to Make PBS Kids-Themed 7 Little Words Puzzles
Ready to try this at home or in the classroom? Follow these steps:
- Pick a show: Choose your child’s favorite.
- List keywords: Character names, places, objects.
- Write clues: Use simple language; keep it fun!
- Break answers: Split into 2–4 letter chunks.
- Shuffle fragments: Mix them up to challenge your solver.
- Test it: Try solving to make sure the puzzle works.
Even better: involve your kids! Let them pick clues or help create fragments, turning puzzle-making into its own creative activity.
The Learning Benefits
Combining puzzles with PBS Kids content isn’t just fun—it has real educational value:
- Vocabulary: Kids learn and remember words in context.
- Spelling: Reassembling letters strengthens spelling.
- Memory: Recalling plot details to solve clues improves memory.
- Critical thinking: Puzzles teach strategy and problem-solving.
- Confidence: Successfully solving puzzles builds pride and motivation.
Because the content comes from shows kids already love, learning feels natural, not forced.
Tips for Parents and Educators
Here’s how to make the most of PBS Kids + 7 Little Words fun:
- Puzzle time after viewing: Watch an episode, then create a puzzle to review what you learned.
- Themed weeks: Focus on one show or topic, like friendship (Arthur) or science (Curious George).
- Co-create puzzles: Encourage kids to write clues or make puzzles for siblings.
- Print & save: Keep a puzzle binder as a memory book.
- Connect to crafts: Draw characters or make storyboards to go with puzzles.
These ideas turn screen time into deeper engagement with reading, writing, and creativity.
Other Word-Based Activities to Try
While 7 Little Words is unique, here are more ways to blend PBS Kids shows with literacy fun:
- Word searches: Hide character names or show themes.
- Crosswords: Use clues about plot, places, and lessons.
- Acrostics: Create poems using character names.
- Flashcards: Show a character; kids spell the name.
- Hangman: Guess names or items from episodes.
Mixing formats keeps word learning fresh and exciting.
PBS Kids Digital Tools for Extra Learning
PBS Kids offers additional resources:
- PBS Kids Games App: Educational mini-games themed around shows.
- Printables: Word games and coloring sheets.
- Storytelling tools: Encourage kids to write their own stories.
Combine these with puzzles for a balanced blend of on-screen and off-screen activities.
Making Learning Last Beyond the Screen
What kids see on TV matters—but what they do with that information matters more. When children watch Molly of Denali then build a puzzle about dog sledding, they:
- Deepen cultural understanding
- Strengthen vocabulary
- Practice creative thinking
When they watch Odd Squad, then make a puzzle about gadgets and math problems, they:
- Learn math terms
- Remember storylines
- Feel ownership over learning
In each case, passive watching transforms into active, memorable engagement.
Why It Works
This blend of shows and word puzzles taps into:
- Narrative memory: Stories help kids remember new words.
- Repetition: Seeing and using words multiple times locks them in.
- Relevance: Kids care more when topics come from shows they love.
- Playfulness: Puzzles keep learning stress-free and fun.
It’s proof that even familiar media like TV can become a stepping stone to deeper literacy.
Children learn best when they’re engaged, curious, and having fun. By pairing trusted, research-based PBS Kids programming with creative puzzles like 7 Little Words, families and educators can transform ordinary screen time into something truly special: a time for exploration, conversation, and learning that sticks.
At The Kids Point, we believe that entertainment and education don’t have to be separate. In fact, when they come together—through beloved characters, clever puzzles, and shared curiosity—they inspire children to love words, stories, and the world around them.