File Folder Games for Pre K

Shape Match

• This file folder game gives preschool children practice with shape recognition. On two pieces of paper, create two identical sets of shapes--triangles, squares, circles, hearts and so forth. Affix one of the shape sheets to the inside of the file folder. Cut out the shapes on the other sheet of paper. Attach hook-and-loop fasteners to each of the shapes--both the shapes on the sheet inside the file folder and the shape pieces that you cut out. Place the cut out shapes inside a zip-top plastic bag and place the bag inside the folder. Children remove the shapes from the bag and match them to the shapes inside the folder.

Number Practice

• Children practice number recognition with this file folder game. On the inside of a file folder, draw a shape and write a number inside the shape. On pieces of paper, draw shapes with dots in them that correspond to the numbers written on the shapes inside the file folder. For example, inside the folder, draw a star with the number 2 written in it and on a separate piece of paper, draw another star with two dots inside of it. Place the separate shapes inside a zip-top plastic bag. Children match the dotted shapes to the correct numbered shape inside the file folder.

Matching Letters

• Children match lower-case letters to their upper-case counterparts with this game. Inside a file folder, print the letters of the alphabet in upper-case print. Underneath each upper-case letter, attach a piece of hook-and-loop fastener. On a separate piece of paper, print the letters of the alphabet in lower-case letters. Affix hook-and-loop fastener to the back of the lower-case letters. Children match the upper-case letters to the lower-case letters.

Sort the Colors

• This game helps children with color recognition and sorting. On the inside of a file folder, draw large squares. Inside the squares, write different color words in a coordinating colored ink. Print a variety of objects, or draw your own objects, in different colors. For instance, depict the color red with pictures of strawberries and hearts. Children sort the pictures and place them in the correct square inside the file folder.