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Memory Games for Kids: 5 Fun Activities to Boost Brain Development in Kids with ADHD and Autism

19 Jun 2024 | By Emily Parker | 4 min read

Amazing news for parents of neurodiverse kids! Scientists have discovered five super fun memory games that can help children with ADHD and Autism improve their memory skills. Did you know that the early childhood years are the most important time for developing memory? By playing these exciting games, you can give your child’s brain a fantastic workout and help them grow in incredible ways!

Memory/Concentration Game: The Classic Brain-Booster!

Who doesn’t love a classic? Memory games for kids, like the Memory/Concentration Game, never get old! This game helps enhance focus, attention, and visual memory. Sounds great, right?

Setting it up is super easy. All you need is a deck of cards or some DIY picture pairs. Start with fewer pairs to keep it simple at first. As your child masters the game, you can increase the difficulty. Want to make it extra fun? Use their favorite characters or themes for the picture pairs! Your kids will be excited to play and learn at the same time.

Goally | The Tablet for Neurodiverse Kids

A young child demonstrates brushing teeth on the best tablet for kids by Goally, highlighting a kid-friendly interface.

Picture Bingo: A Creative Spin on a Family Favorite

Ready for another twist on memory games for kids? Let’s talk about Picture Bingo! It’s like traditional bingo but even better. This version develops concentration, listening skills, and pattern recognition in your child. Plus, who doesn’t love shouting “Bingo!” when they win?

Get creative by making homemade bingo cards with images instead of numbers! You can use pictures of animals, shapes, or anything else that interests your little one.

When playing Picture Bingo with your kiddo(s), describe each image out loud as you call them out – this helps both engagement & understanding. Finally – don’t forget rewards! Celebrate their success with stickers or small treats as they complete their bingo card (trust us; they’ll love it).

Memory games for kids. A young boy sits on a rug with two other children, playing with bright color paper shapes.
Read more: What are the Greatest Games for ADHD?

What’s Missing? Game: A Mind-Teasing Adventure

Ready for a fun observation and recall challenge? Introducing the “What’s Missing?” game! This memory game for kids sharpens focus and tests short-term memory skills.

To start, set up a tray with various objects your child knows well. Have them study the items before you secretly remove one. Then ask, “What’s missing?” Begin with familiar items they love. Gradually increase the number of objects or switch them up completely to keep things fresh! Feeling adventurous? Remove more than one object at once for an extra challenge mode – watch their brains work overtime!

I Went Shopping Game: Learn While Playing

Who says learning can’t be fun? The “I Went Shopping” game combines playtime with essential life skills – perfect for boosting sequential memory and language development in kids.

Here’s how it works: Players take turns adding items to a shopping list, reciting all previous items each time they add something new. For beginners, start easy with small lists and use visuals like real objects or pictures to help them remember better. And guess what? You can even incorporate real-life shopping trips into this activity! Practicing at the grocery store adds an extra layer of excitement while reinforcing those newly acquired skills.

Memory games for kids. A mom and her son sit on a bed and play a game of Memory/Concentration.

The Magic Cup Game: Abracadabra, Let’s Boost Memory!

Last but not least, we have the Magic Cup Game! A fun spin on the classic shell game that keeps kids entertained while helping them develop focus, attention to detail, and memory through visual tracking.

Setting up is a piece of cake! Just hide a small object beneath one of the three cups. Shuffle them around and let your child guess where it is. Begin slowly so they can follow along easily. As their skills improve, increase the speed and swap cups more often to keep it interesting. But wait—there’s more! Make this memory game for kids extra magical by using colorful cups or placing a mini prize inside (hello, motivation!).

Goally | Fun Games that Build Motor Skills & Manage Screen Time 

Looking for ways to improve your child’s finger dexterity skills while also keeping screen time manageable? Try Goally’s fun & motor planning apps.

Goally is the kids tablet with ONLY learning apps on it. It's completely parent-controlled.

Our Balloons & Graffiti Street Apps are all about building motor skills in a fun, interactive way. Kids learn to “pop the balloons” or draw dozens of digital art designs while simultaneously developing the essential skills needed to use AAC and other communication tools. Meanwhile, Game Garage is a parent-controlled space filled with entertaining (but parent-controlled) video games that kids can unlock with the points they earn from completing routines.

So there you have it—a whole list of exciting memory games for kids that are both fun and beneficial. Try these out with your little ones and watch as they learn new skills while having an absolute blast. Remember, when learning is enjoyable, the possibilities are truly endless! So there you have it – five memory games that are not only super fun but will also help your kids reach their potential! Give them a try and watch those young minds grow stronger every day. As always, keep being the amazing parent you are, and remember that Goally is here to support you in nurturing your child’s independence with our digital tools! Cheers to learning through play!


FAQ’s About Memory Games for Kids

What are memory games for kids?  
Memory games for kids are activities designed to enhance their ability to remember information, improve concentration, and boost cognitive skills through fun and engaging play.

How do memory games benefit children with ADHD?
Memory games help children with ADHD by improving their attention span, enhancing working memory, and providing a fun way to practice focus and concentration.

Can memory games help neurodivergent kids?
Yes, memory games can support neurodivergent kids by improving their cognitive skills, aiding in emotional regulation, and offering structured play that can be both fun and therapeutic.

What are some examples of memory games for kids?
Examples of memory games include matching card games, Simon Says, and digital apps that focus on pattern recognition and recall.

How often should kids play memory games for the best results?
Kids should play memory games regularly, ideally a few times a week, to see significant improvements in their memory and cognitive skills.

This post was originally published on 04/04/2023. It was updated on 06/19/2024.

Article by

Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.

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