Printable Memory Games: Matching Pairs Cards

Matching pairs cards to colour, cut out and play: 12 pairs in each set (6 big pairs for preschoolers), with both cards of every pair in one PDF, so you print it once. Print on card stock, colour the cards, cut along the dashed lines and play.

Christmas memory games

Christmas Memory Game (12 Pairs) coloring page

Christmas Memory Game for Preschool (6 Pairs) coloring page

Winter memory game

Thanksgiving memory game

New Year memory game

Halloween memory game

Animal memory game

Collections: Christmas Activity Sheets

How to use these pages

A memory game (also called pairs, pelmanism or concentration) is a set of picture cards with every picture on two cards. Shuffle them, lay them face down in rows, and take turns turning over two. A match is yours to keep and you go again; if they don’t match, turn them back over and remember where they were. The player with the most pairs at the end wins.

Every set here prints in one go: both cards of every pair are in the PDF, so there is no need to print it twice. The cards are outline pictures with their names underneath, so children can colour them before they play, and early readers can match the words as well as the pictures. Sets have 12 pairs (24 cards on two sheets), and the preschool set has 6 pairs of big cards.

Print on card stock (160–200 gsm) so the pictures don’t show through from the back, or glue the sheet onto coloured card before cutting. Cut along the dashed lines; a paper trimmer makes neat cards quickly.

Frequently asked questions

How do you play the memory game?

Shuffle the cards and lay them face down in rows. On your turn, turn over any two cards. If they match, keep them and have another turn. If not, turn them face down again and the next player goes. When all the cards are gone, the player with the most pairs wins.

Do I need to print the cards twice?

No. Every picture is printed twice in the PDF, so one print gives you the whole game: 24 cards (12 pairs) on two sheets, or 12 big cards (6 pairs) for the preschool set.

How can I make it easier or harder?

For toddlers, start with 4 to 6 pairs face up and match them, then play face down. For older children, use all 12 pairs, mix two sets together, or play matching the word side only.

What paper size is the PDF?

There is a US Letter PDF and an A4 PDF with the same cards. Print at 100% (actual size).