Hangman is a classic word game. It can be used as a way to teach children about spelling, as well as training for logical thinking. In this post, we have various free downloadable templates to print in order to play the game wherever you’d like!

Here are the instructions (also found in the first image here):

1.) One player chooses a word or phrase, and writes out an equal number of spaces for the letters in the word. For instance, if the word is “Hangman”, this player would write: __ __ __ __ __ __ __

2.) The other player guesses letters. If they are part of the word/phrase, Player 1 writes them on the blanks where they fit. If they aren’t, Player 1 will add a piece of the body (usually 6 in all, although additions can be made) to the scaffold.

3.) If the body is completed before Player 2 guesses the word/phrase, Player 1 wins.

Hangman template with instructions

The rules of hangman can be adapted for younger players or if the word/phrase is longer than usual. If necessary, items (facial features, clothing, etc) can be added to the person to extend the gameplay.

To download the above template as a PDF, click here.

Hangman template with alphabet

If a child who is learning the alphabet is playing, it can help to have the letters listed on the side, like this template. This means that Player 2 can cross off letters as they guess, leaving their possible remaining guesses.

To download the above template as a PDF, click here.

Hangman template (4 scaffolds)

If you are conscious about saving paper, we have several options of templates that have multiple scaffolds on them, so the game can be repeated. Print out several sheets of these for long road trips or to keep kids occupied at events!

To download the above template as a PDF, click here.

Hangman template (6 scaffolds)

To download the above template as a PDF, click here.

Do you need other ways to keep kids (or yourself!) occupied? Try printing a blank US map and see if you can name all the states? Or what about a game of Yahtzee? So many options!