MATCH-UP

As an educator/librarian in the early childhood grades I learned the importance of

reading readiness skills. One of these skills is VISUAL DISCRIMINATION. Those who

sew, knit and/or crochet could make visual discrimination games using your skills.

1. Crocheting granny squares.

This is a matching game in which individual squares can be matched to a mat of

from 6 to 9 squares. Varying the combination of colors makes the game challenging and sharpens the child's ability to see detail. This is not only important for reading, but for math as well. (the most common math mistakes are "careless errors.") 

Several mats can be made with corresponding individual pieces. The reverse side of these mats could have something else: numbers, shapes,etc. The individual pieces could be put in a bag allowing the child to select randomly. (Children love to pick out

of a bag. You might find that they are spending a bit of time choosing.)

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2. Quilting Matchup Games

People who have quilting skills can use the same principles in making the

visual discrimination game. The game can be very easy, to complex.

3. Pictures on paper Match up games

Pictures can be cut out of magazines or downloaded from the computer (google images). If a picture is printed out, it is best to use card stock paper. If regular
paper is used, back the pictures with poster board.  You could even opt for
a child to make several pictures, then color xerox two of each picture. Use one
of each for the board.  Have the others as individual pictures.

Teaching Toddlers Colors

 

This is more difficult. The colors are reversed. The game can

be used to teach both colors and shapes.

This  game is very advanced. Here, creative quilting can be utilized.