2.5y–4.2y10 minDevelopmental playFree playFamily time
Name-Word Memory Match
Make and use name cards (and a few simple everyday labels) to help your child recall frequently seen words, match print to people/objects, and extend into first-sound and rhyme play.
What you'll need
Essentials
- paper or card (3–6 small pieces)
- a marker or pen
- 2–4 familiar names (family members, friends, pets)
Nice to have
- small photos (printed or phone photos)
- sticky notes or tape
- a small bag/envelope to hide cards
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
What it practices
- Enjoys rhyming and rhythmic activities.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Shows awareness of rhyme and alliteration.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Continues a rhyming string.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Hears and says the initial sound in words.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Can segment the sounds in simple words and blend them together and knows which letters represent some of them.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Encourage children to recall words they see frequently, such as their own and friends’ names.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)