Play Memory Games

Ever tried to outsmart your toddler at memory games, only to realize you’re the one forgetting where you put the last dinosaur card? Welcome to the Memory Olympics, where small humans reign supreme and your adult brain gets a daily workout. If you’re looking for an activity that’s equal parts bonding, brain-boosting, and humbling, this one’s for you. Bonus: you’ll finally have an excuse for why you can’t remember your WiFi password—your kid stole all your memory skills.

Playing memory games isn’t just about winning (though, let’s be honest, you’ll want to win at least once). These games build your child’s working memory, boost their attention span, and help them learn how to focus and recall details—a.k.a. the superpowers they’ll need for school, friendships, and eventually, remembering where they left their shoes. For parents, it’s a playful way to flex your own memory muscles and create shared moments of triumph (or mutual confusion).

How to do it

  1. Pick a simple matching game, or choose a storybook that has lots of details.

  2. Play together by taking turns. If you’re playing a game, flip cards; if you’re reading, recall story bits. No peeking—stick to the rules, even if you’re losing.

  3. Keep the activity short. Two rounds are plenty before someone (probably you) starts making up new rules.

  4. Laugh at your mistakes and cheer for each other. It’s okay to let your kid win once in a while—they’ll definitely let you know if you don’t!

Tips:

  • Choose games or stories that are age-appropriate and engaging.
  • Focus on having fun, not just winning.
  • Encourage fair play and taking turns.
  • Use mistakes as a chance to laugh and bond.

After clearing the dinner table (or, let’s be real, after stacking dishes in the sink for 'later').

Flip over just two cards with your child and see if they match.
Exchange a high-five or do your best dramatic gasp, even if you totally missed the match.
Put a deck of memory cards or a favorite storybook in a basket in the living room.

When you’re waiting for bath water to fill up (and trying to avoid a flood).

Play a single round of the memory game together.
Do a silly victory dance—even if you lost to a preschooler.
Download a simple memory game app on your phone or tablet.

Right before bedtime, after you’ve wrangled everyone into pajamas (mostly).

Ask your child to recall one thing from the story you just read.
Give an enthusiastic thumbs-up and declare them the 'Memory Master of the Night.'
Bookmark a storybook with lots of details on your child’s bookshelf.