How to Use Memory Game Pets for Cognitive Skills
By The Autism Community Store | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn step-by-step how to play Memory Game Pets to build visual memory, matching, and language skills in children with autism. Includes practical tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer
To build cognitive skills with Memory Game Pets, start with a small set of cards, model the matching process, and gradually increase the number of pairs as your child gains confidence.
Why Matching Games Help Autism
Matching games like Memory Game Pets support visual memory and attention to detail, which are often areas of focus for children with autism. The realistic photographs provide clear, recognizable images that reduce confusion and make the task more accessible.
Because no reading is required, the game is suitable for non-readers, but the printed names on the cards can promote early word recognition when you point them out during play.
Adapting the Game for Different Skill Levels
Start with just 2 or 3 pairs to avoid overwhelming your child. As they master that level, add more pairs to increase challenge. You can also use the cards for simple matching (face-up) before introducing the memory (face-down) format.
For children who struggle with losing, consider playing cooperatively—flip cards together and celebrate each match as a team. This reduces pressure and keeps the activity positive.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Memory Game Pets
- Set up a small number of pairs: Choose 2 to 3 pairs of cards (e.g., dog, cat, fish) and lay them face up. This lets your child see the images and understand the goal of finding matching pairs. Checkpoint: If your child seems overwhelmed, reduce to just 2 pairs.
- Model the matching process: Pick up one card, name the pet, then find its match and place them together. Narrate your actions: 'This is a dog. Let's find the other dog.' Checkpoint: If your child is not watching, use hand-over-hand guidance to point to each card.
- Flip cards face down and take turns: Turn the cards over and arrange them in a grid. Take turns flipping two cards. When a match is found, say 'Match!' and let your child place the pair aside. Checkpoint: If your child flips more than two cards, gently remind them to flip only two.
- Encourage verbal labeling: As your child flips each card, ask 'What is it?' or say the name yourself. This builds language skills alongside visual memory. Checkpoint: If your child is non-verbal, point to the printed name and say it aloud for them.
- Gradually increase difficulty: Add more pairs once your child consistently matches the initial set. You can also mix in other memory games later for variety. Checkpoint: If frustration appears, step back to the previous number of pairs.
About Memory Game Pets
- Memory Game - Pets: This memory game features colorful, realistic photographs of pets and requires no reading, though cards include the name of the picture to promote early sight reading. The clear photos make it easier for children with autism to recognize and match images, while the printed names offer a natural way to introduce word recognition.
Memory Game - Pets
