How to Make a Matching Colors File Folder Game

When children get bored and need something to do, try the file folder game. This activity is perfect for trips, hospital stays and grandma and grandpa's house. Read on to learn how to make a matching colors file folder game.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Manila file folders
• Markers, crayons or colored pencils
• Scissors or safety scissors depending on age
• Small Ziploc bags
• Plastic packaging tape
• Laminator or clear contact paper optional but nice

1. Choose a theme for your game. If for example you are going on a first trip away from home try to pretend to pack a suitcase. Put in pictures you cut out or draw and cut of items of clothing, tooth paste and brush, hairbrush, shoes and other items. Then put a matching picture glued to the file folder of the same item either the same color or different design but same color of design. Now have fun matching.
2. Another activity is to make a rainbow on the opposite side or in a separate file folder. Using the arc formation make it extend across the whole page. Next cut construction paper strips in the arc design to match the rainbow. You can also use the strips separately and just make a rainbow like the other one. An extension to this game is a story about a rainbow where the colors of the rainbow in correct order are inserted by using little circles or squares to complete the story. Color words that match the colors can be written in the correct color and used in the story instead of squares for older children.
3. These are just a couple of ideas. Many games can be made and very inexpensively and in a short amount of time. These are easy to transport and the pieces are always together in the Ziploc bag attached.
4. Older children have used these games to learn numbers, mazes, word searches and make up their own stories.

Tips & Warnings

• Store these games in a file box and you are always ready for that rainy day or traveling trip.
• Include your child in the choice of theme and level of activity.
• If the child is younger have an adult help with the cutting.