Turn number recognition into a fun and interactive challenge with the Number Matching in the Garden Memory Game. This garden-themed card game offers a playful way for students to practise matching numerals with quantities from 0 to 10, while developing memory skills and turn-taking.

The game includes a set of matching numeral and quantity cards featuring garden-themed images. Students take turns flipping over two cards at a time, aiming to match the numeral card with the correct quantity card. If they make a match, they keep the pair and take another turn. If not, the cards are turned back over and play continues. This simple format keeps students engaged and actively thinking about number representation and visual recognition.

This activity is perfect for small group rotations, maths centres, early finishers, or even wet weather games. With its strong focus on both number and memory skills, it offers a great way to blend numeracy with social learning. Plus, the garden theme makes it a lovely seasonal addition to any Foundation or Year 1 classroom.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Recognise numerals from 0 to 10
• ✅ Match numerals to correct quantities using one-to-one correspondence
• ✅ Develop memory and visual recall skills
• ✅ Practise turn-taking, listening, and social play strategies

What’s Included

• Garden-themed numeral cards (0–10)
• Matching quantity cards featuring visual representations
• Instructions for playing the memory game in pairs or small groups

Materials Needed

• Printed and laminated card sets
• Scissors for cutting out the cards
• Small container or pouch for storage
• Optional: felt mat or tray to organise play area

How to Use

1. Shuffle and lay all cards face-down in a grid
2. Students take turns flipping over two cards at a time
3. If the numeral and quantity match, the player keeps the pair and goes again
4. If they do not match, turn the cards back over and play continues
5. The player with the most pairs at the end wins

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Include as part of your maths rotation games or early finisher activities
• 💡 Use during a garden or seasons theme for cross-curricular links
• 💡 Partner students with mixed ability for peer modelling and support
• 💡 Play as a warm-up to a counting or number recognition lesson

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Laminate for durability and easy reuse across the term
• 💛 Colour-code card backs or borders to avoid mixing sets
• 💛 Store each set in a labelled ziplock bag for quick set-up

The Number Matching in the Garden Memory Game is a fun, low-prep way to combine counting, visual discrimination, and playful learning - perfect for reinforcing key early maths skills in a social setting.