MATCH THIS

Make this fun DIY matching game for kids and download Annie Lang's Free template and instructions.
When it comes to entertaining kids on a rainy day or finding group activities to keep the party guests entertained, this DIY game is an ideal way to not only keep them busy, but it's educational as well!  All you need are some fabric print swatches or patterned scrap papers, some cardstock, a pair of scissors and a bit of glue (I use spray adhesive).

I've included the shape template I created to make my fabric swatch game shapes along with the basic directions.  The first time my 4 year old granddaughter used them, she immediately became engrossed in the colors, patterns and character images that were tossed about the carpet.  It didn't take her long to discover that the game challenge was not just matching single images like store bought card games, but seemed more like giant puzzle piece shapes that could be matched on both sides of each card! I created 20 different fabric card sets and it took her 30-45 minutes to complete the game, making it a perfect activity for Grandma's house on a rainy day.

This can also be used as a fun group party game for kids of all ages.  Divide groups into several teams.  Provide each team with an identical set of card pieces.  The trick here is to mix the card sets up just enough so that all teams will have some of another team's game cards.  It takes a while, but eventually the team members figure out that they need to pool their resources and cooperate with each other in order to complete the challenge!

You can right click and save the free template below to your computer.
Happy Matching, Everyone!