Dots and Boxes

Dots and Boxes is a quick, easy-to-learn game that helps children develop early strategy, patience, and turn-taking skills. All you need is a sheet of paper and two pens or pencils. Players take turns joining dots to build boxes — whoever completes a box gets to claim it. It’s simple, portable, and great for keeping little hands busy while waiting or relaxing at home.

Even young children can quickly pick up the rules, while older kids enjoy developing tactics to outsmart their opponent and capture the most boxes.

Materials Needed

• Paper
• Two pens or pencils (different colours if possible)

Tools Needed

• None

Steps

1. Draw the Grid
   Fill the page with a grid of evenly spaced dots (e.g. 5×5 or 6×6 dots).
2. Take Turns Drawing Lines
   Players take turns drawing one horizontal or vertical line between two adjacent dots.
3. Complete Boxes
   When a player completes the fourth side of a box, they mark it with their initial or colour to claim it, and get another turn.
4. Keep Playing
   The game continues until all boxes are completed.
5. Count Boxes
   When the grid is full, count how many boxes each player has claimed to see who wins.

Variations

• Different Grid Sizes: Use bigger or smaller grids depending on how long you want to play.
• Team Play: Work in pairs for a friendly family competition.
• Decorate Your Boxes: Instead of initials, let children draw a mini picture inside each box they win.
• Time Challenge: Set a timer for each turn to keep the game moving quickly.