32 Free Printable Memory Games For Kids
You are going to love our free printable memory games. We have them for every holiday, plus lots of subjects.
Whether you call it matching games, matching pairs, or memory match games, you are going to love our free games for kids.
These are perfect for toddlers and are one of the first games you will probably play with your child.
Although you can of course buy matching games at the toystore, you don’t need to.
I have put together all of our free printable matching games that you and the kids are going to love. Some are part of a unit study, some of them are for the holidays, and some are just for fun!
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
How to download the free memory games for kids
There are 2 ways you can download our matching games printable. The first is you can purchase all of them for a small fee, or you can click on each of the links and download each of them individually for free.
Whichever option you choose you will need to print each page twice, so you can make a pair of the same image.
Supplies needed:
- cardstock (normal copy paper will work, but you might be able to see the images through it)
- paper cutter or scissors
- laminator (optional)
- coloring pens to decorate the back of the games.
How to play matching games with kids?
Firstly let me start by saying that this can also be played as a one player game. This is a great game for the kids to play while you make dinner!
Trust me as a parent to an only child I have to get the break when I can!
If you are to play with the kids though, even better.
Before you cut the pairs of cards up, we like to decorate the reverse of the cards to make them look prettier. Just grab the coloring pens and the kids can design them however they want.
After you have cut the pairs of cards. Place the matching cards upside down on the table, I find that if you are playing with younger children it is easier to place them in rows.
Let the youngest go first, and they must pick up 2 cards.
If they are a match they take them away, if not they need to be turned back over ready for the next player.
The cards must be completely turned over so everyone can see what card it was.
If playing as a single player the children can leave the cards face up, as shown in the picture above.
The winner is the person with the most matching pairs.
Carry on reading to download the matching game printable you want, or download all of them for a small fee.
WANT ALL OF OUR MEMORY GAMES IN ONE PLACE?
What are the benefits of playing memory games?
There are many benefits of playing memory games including:
- Matching games are great for improving memory skills
- They help improve concentration
- Great for pattern recognition
- Identifying similarities and differences between the images
- Help with fast thinking and improved focus
If you want to add some more fun to your homeschool routine but are not sure how. Check out our what is gameschooling post for some top tips.
How to store printable memory games?
Storing printable memory games is a simple process to keep them organized and in good condition. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the game cards in snack ziplock bags to prevent them from getting lost or damaged.
- Tie a ribbon around them to keep them all together, or use an elastic band.
- Store the piles or bags in a cool dry place to prevent moisture from damaging the cards. We add them to a sheet protectors.
- To extend the life of your memory game, you can laminate the cards. This makes them more resistant to wear and tear and easier to clean if they get dirty.
Free educational matching games for kids
These free printable memory games are perfect for boosting memory and enhancing early learning in a fun, engaging way. Whether it’s matching letters or learning about different objects, these games are great for preschoolers and early elementary students.
Alphabet matching game printable. Boost literacy by helping kids match uppercase and lowercase letters in this fun memory game.
Math memory game printable. Strengthen math skills by matching numbers, equations, or math facts.
Money memory game printable. Teach kids about different coins and bills while improving their memory with this printable game.
Clothes memory game printable. Introduce kids to different types of clothing while improving their cognitive skills.
Musical instrument matching game. A fun way for kids to learn about different musical instruments while honing their memory skills.
Themed memory games for science and creativity
These printable memory games are perfect for reinforcing science lessons or exploring creative themes, making them a versatile tool for homeschooling or the classroom.
Planet matching game printable. Encourage space exploration by matching planets to their names or characteristics.
Butterfly matching game printable. Perfect for a butterfly unit study, this game helps kids learn about butterfly species and colors.
Shakespeare memory game. Introduce students to Shakespearean characters and terms through this educational memory game.
Insect memory game printable. Fun for any bug enthusiast, this printable game focuses on identifying various insects.
Unicorn memory game printable. A magical memory game that lets kids match different unicorns, sparking creativity and fun.
Penguin memory game printable. A fun way to learn about penguins, included in our penguin-themed educational resources.
Weather memory game printable. Teach kids about weather patterns and conditions with this interactive memory game.
Water Cycle Memory Game for Kids. Part of our water cycle worksheets, this game teaches the stages of the water cycle in a fun, memorable way.
Polar Bear Memory Game Printable. Included in our polar bear life cycle worksheets, this game helps reinforce polar bear facts.
Printable holiday memory games for year-round fun
Celebrate each holiday with excitement by playing a unique holiday-themed memory game! These printable memory games are perfect for keeping kids engaged while learning about different holidays throughout the year.
Chinese New Year memory game printable. Celebrate the Lunar New Year with this festive matching game.
Valentine’s Day memory game printable. Spread love and fun by matching Valentine’s-themed symbols.
Presidents memory game printable. Learn about U.S. Presidents while sharpening memory skills.
St Patrick’s Day memory game printable. Bring some Irish luck to your learning with this St. Patrick’s Day memory game.
Spring memory game printable. Embrace the season by matching spring-themed images.
Easter memory game printable. Hop into Easter fun by matching bunnies, eggs, and other festive symbols.
April Fool’s matching game printable. Add some playful fun to your April Fool’s Day with this lighthearted matching game.
Holiday-themed memory games for every season
Keep the holiday spirit alive all year long with these printable memory games, perfect for learning while having fun during holiday celebrations.
Earth Day memory game printable. Teach kids about Earth Day by matching environmental symbols.
Star Wars memory game printable. May the force be with you as you play this Star Wars-themed memory game.
4th of July memory game printable. Celebrate Independence Day with this patriotic memory game.
Roald Dahl memory game printable. Dive into the imaginative world of Roald Dahl with this fun matching game.
Pirate memory game printable. Set sail for adventure with this pirate-themed memory game.
Halloween memory game printable. Match spooky symbols to get into the Halloween spirit.
Thanksgiving memory game printable. Add some fun to your Thanksgiving with this harvest-themed memory game.
Elf memory game printable. Play this cheerful elf-themed game for some holiday fun.
Hanukkah memory game printable. Learn about the Festival of Lights with this Hanukkah-themed memory game.
Christmas memory game printable. Celebrate Christmas by matching festive holiday symbols.
New Year’s memory game printable. Ring in the New Year with this celebratory matching game.
Last Updated on 31 October 2024 by Clare Brown