Memory Match
Players flip pairs of cards to find matches, remembering positions, a timeless memory game.
- Age3 to 6 years
- Time5 to 15 minutes
- EnergyCalm
- CostFree
- WhereIndoors
- PrepNone
A turn-taking game where matching cards are laid face down and players flip two at a time, trying to remember where each picture is and find pairs. Practises remembering where things are.
How to do it
- Lay out matching pairs of cards face down in a grid; start with a small number of pairs for younger players.
- On each turn, a player flips two cards face up for everyone to see.
- If the two cards match, that player keeps the pair and goes again; if not, they turn them back face down in the same spots.
- Players try to remember where cards are so they can make matches on later turns.
- Play until all pairs are found, then count how many each player collected.
What you need
- Cards
- Flat surface
Signs it is working
Your child remembers the position of a card they saw earlier and uses it to make a match. They take turns and turn non-matches back face down. They stay engaged to the end of the grid.
If it is not quite clicking
Your child cannot remember any positions: Start with just four to six pairs and build up. They get frustrated by mismatches: Play cooperatively where you both try to clear the grid together rather than compete. A young child peeks or wants every card: Let them flip freely for a few rounds before adding the matching rule.
Make it yours
Younger, 3-4 years: Use only four to six pairs with clear, distinct pictures. Older, 5-6 years: Use more pairs, or add a rule that you name the picture aloud when you flip it. Siblings: Mixed ages can play together if the younger one uses fewer pairs or plays on a team with an adult.
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