Jim Benton’s Puzzle Day 2026 Activity Kit Makes Kids Smile
Jim Benton creates some of the most spectacular activities I have ever seen, so meeting him in 2025 was an epic moment for me. As Puzzle Day founder Jodi Jill, I have always wished for a gifted artist and author to be part of Puzzle Day. I own every book he has written, so when he said he would make a Puzzle Day activity kit, I could hardly believe what I was hearing. It felt like a dream coming to life. And I can hardly believe my eyes that Benton's materials are free for kids to enjoy on our Puzzle Day Fun site.
Meeting Jim Benton at a Conference
I have admired Jim for many years. His books are bright and full of humor. Catwad, Clyde and Blurmp have made kids laugh in classrooms and living rooms everywhere. His characters feel alive. His art has a spark that kids understand right away. Seeing the person behind that creativity was a moment I will never forget.
Why His Creativity Matters to Kids
When we talked, Jim shared how much he enjoys making kids smile. He spoke about the joy he feels when a child connects with a character or a joke. I felt that joy too. Puzzles and stories both give kids a chance to explore, imagine and grow. Hearing him talk about his passion made me feel like we were speaking the same language.
The Puzzle Day 2026 Activity Packet
That is why his Puzzle Day 2026 activity packet means so much to me. Jim created a set of printable worksheets that feel fun from the very first glance. The pages are playful. They are clever. They carry the same energy that fills his books. Kids will see his style right away and feel excited to start. Jim Benton's activities are so much for for anyone to enjoy. Plus, it's the first time ever that we've had an official Puzzle Day activity packet outside of the packet that the founder has made where people are excited to download the fun!!!
I am personally grateful for the time he spent on this packet. Jim has a full schedule with books and art, yet he still made space for Puzzle Day. That kindness is something I will always remember. It shows how much he cares about kids and the joy they feel when they discover something new.
A Gift for Teachers and Families
Teachers, parents and puzzle enthusiasts will enjoy this packet. It is simple to print and distribute. It is easy to use in a classroom. It gives students a chance to think, laugh and feel proud. Many teachers already use puzzles to build confidence and problem solving skills. Now they can add activities created by a New York Times bestselling author who understands what kids enjoy as he's been doing this for years.
Families will enjoy it too. Parents can print the pages at home and celebrate Puzzle Day in a relaxed and fun way. The activities fit any age group. A few pencils and a little time is all it takes. It is a simple way to bring creativity into the day.
Why This Collaboration Means So Much
For me, this collaboration is a special chapter in the story of Puzzle Day. When I created International Puzzle Day, I hoped people would feel inspired and included. That was over 30 years ago. Having Jim Benton join the celebration in 2026 shows how far that hope has reached. It brings together art, puzzles and laughter in a way that feels meaningful. It reflects the desire creative people have to share the love of puzzles to every person.
Puzzle Day 2026 will be brighter because of his work. Kids will enjoy every page. Teachers and families will have a new resource to share. And I will always be thankful for the kindness of a creator who took the time to make something wonderful for everyone who loves puzzles.
You can directly download Jim Benton's Puzzle Day Activities to play at school, at home or even on vacation! Happy Puzzle Day!