Matching Objects to Identical Pictures

Safety

Every object must not fit the small parts test cylinder (1.25 in. × 2.25 in.).
Check laminated cards for peeling edges and sharp corners; toddlers chew cards, and loose laminate film is a choking hazard.

Presentation

1
Carry the basket to the mat with the child.
2
Lay the cards in a row on the mat, naming each: "This is a picture of a cup."
3
Take out one object, name it, and hold it next to each card in turn. Place it on its picture: "Cup. The cup goes on the picture of the cup."
4
Hand the child the next object and name it.
5
Wait while the child looks at the cards. This is the point of interest: the child places the object on the picture that shows it.
6
When all are matched, lift one object and show the picture underneath: "Here is the picture of the spoon."
7
Put the objects and cards back in the basket together.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

4–6 objects and pictures
The child lays out the cards
Period 2 with the cards alone: "Show me the picture of the ball."
Photographs the adult takes of objects from the room or the child's home

Control of error

The picture: an object placed on its own photograph covers it and has the same shape and color. On another card the shape or color does not match.

Ready to move on when the child…

Places each object on its picture without help
Points to a picture when its object is named
Names one or more pictures without being asked
Takes out and returns the work on their own

Guide note

Photograph the actual objects in the basket. Bought card sets rarely show the exact object; they belong in the next work, Matching Objects to Similar Pictures.