I’ve been ever so slightly obsessed with memory games ever since a design-conscious friend bought the Binth version, above, back from the US for Alfie. They’re a great way to stimulate your toddler’s brain and encourage learning and a brilliant opportunity to play together. Essentially, the game consists of a set of cards with images on one side that you either cover up or turn over then reveal two at a time to try and complete a pair. I’ve compiled a list of my ten favourite finds which will hopefully cover all aesthetics and budgets.
New York brand Kid O is the watchword for ultra-hip design and their Memory Match, £34.90 from BG faves VUP Baby, is no exception. 16 red wooden dots can be lifted to reveal colours, animals, letters or numbers on interchangeable cards.
Toyella stocks another fab New York-based range of toys, EeBoo. Of their recycled cardboard matching games, I like Life on Earth, £14.99, comprising 24 pairs of animal-themed cards.
Of course, Djeco has a gorgeous and reasonably priced animal and colour-coded boxed game, complete with useful carry handle. £9.99 for 16 pairs from The Beanstalk.
As do Vilac – heart this 24-piece wooden set, €16.71, with a jolly beside-the-seaside theme.
If vintage is more your thing, head for box of delights Whippet Grey, where you’ll find this retro-look set of cards featuring traditional toys for £11.55.
Our old friend Etsy naturally offered a ton of options, but my top two are this space-themed Make a Match wooden game, $21, from Mama May!
And this super-cool laminated set of 36 cards from Belgian company Creative Services. You can also play their animal matching game online here.
Finally, the ultimate in hip design has to be this jar of discs with images of quirky household objects, designed in Germany by Adam und Habort for Siebensachen. Yours for the princely sum of £21 from haven of cool, Parisian boutique Colette.
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