子 — child, sign of the rat, 11PM-1AM
Learn the correct stroke order for 子 (child), a 3-stroke kanji.
Stroke Order
Step-by-Step Diagram
Try Writing It
Practice writing each stroke in the correct order and direction. Start from the green dot.
Draw stroke 1 of 3 — start from the green dot
Common Words
Usage & Examples
Usage Notes
The kanji 子 (child) is taught in grade 1 of Japanese elementary school and appears at JLPT N5 level. It has 3 strokes with radical 子.
In newspaper frequency rankings, 子 is #72, making it one of the most commonly used kanji.
Example Words in Context
Practice Sheet
Trace then write on your own. Print this row as a PDF practice sheet.
Related Kanji
Frequently Asked Questions
How many strokes does 子 have?
The kanji 子 (child) has 3 strokes. Watch the animation above to see the correct order.
What is the correct stroke order for 子?
子 follows the standard Japanese stroke order as taught in schools. Use the step-by-step diagram or the "Try Writing" tool above to practice each stroke in sequence.
What does 子 mean?
子 means: child, sign of the rat, 11PM-1AM, first sign of Chinese zodiac. On'yomi readings: シ, ス, ツ. Kun'yomi readings: こ, -こ, ね.
What JLPT level is 子?
子 is a JLPT N5 kanji. This is a beginner-level kanji.