Ten Frame Memory Match

Focus: Subitising, visual memory, and number recognition

This fun memory game helps children instantly recognise number patterns without counting. By flashing ten frame arrangements for just a few seconds, children begin to form mental pictures of numbers — a key step towards confident, fluent maths.

Equipment you’ll need:

• Ten frame

• Counters or cubes

How to play:

1. Place a small number of counters on the ten frame (e.g. 6).

2. Show your child the frame for 3 seconds, then cover it up.

3. Ask your child to recreate what they saw.

4. Reveal the original and check together.

5. Repeat with different numbers — can they remember more each time?

Extension idea:

Swap roles! Let your child make a pattern for you to copy. You can also make it trickier by using two colours or arranging counters in different shapes.

Why it matters:

This game strengthens subitising, the ability to see a number of objects without counting, which supports quick recall and mental maths. It also improves working memory, concentration, and visual attention.