Benefits of Playing Matching Games with Kids with Free Printable Game Boards

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I am so excited about these matching games for kids. Not only are they fun but they are also great for brain development. Memory and matching games aid in a child’s cognitive development which is how a child problem solves and learns new information.

Matching and sorting are early stages of math development. Incorporating mathematical language during play can further support this development.

Open Match

Cut the cards apart and have your kiddo practice matching them. Don’t worry about turning them over and hiding them. The goal of this activity is to simply look for similarities and differences.

This game is great for toddlers and early pre-school kiddos. Don’t be afraid to use language with them like “Can you find the ones that are the same?”, “How are these the same/similar?”, “How are they different?”. Even if you don’t think they will understand you will be surprised at how quickly they pick up on. It will shock you one day not in the too far future when they actually start using those words.

Memory Match

Cut the cards apart and place them face down. With memory match, you can pull in some mathematical language like columns, rows, and arrays as you lay the cards face down on the table or floor. Kids may not get the concept of this game until closer to 3.5 or 4 but it is still fun to play.

This game is great for reinforcing the concept of taking turns. Kiddos have to be patient as they wait for you (their partner) to take their turn.

Controlled Match

In this activity, kids are given the picture on a control card and they have to choose the picture that matches. This is a great way to introduce the concept of matching to them.

 

4 Reasons Why You Should Play Matching Games for Kids

• Download and print your favorite set. They are quick and easy to print. All you need is cardstock (highly recommend) and a printer. If you want to make them last a little longer you can laminate them.

• Playing games with your kids, even from a young age can have lasting memories for them and you.

• Matching games are good for their brain development and can help them learn through play.

• Matching games can increase short term memory and attention to detail.