Kim's game

When I was little we used to play a game called Kim's game.  It was a memory game which I know most of you would have played and probably still do with your children, although it may be called something else.  Basically its a game of  memory skills, developing vocabulary and hiding objects.

You will need:

• A tray or something similar to put the objects on
• A selection of your child's toys - small enough to fit on the tray but not too small.  Only use a few items at a time depending on the child's age. 
• A tea towel or towel to cover the items

How to play:

1. Add the selection of toys to the tray.  Only a few items for younger children.  You can add a few more for older children as soon as they get used to the game to make it a little harder
2. Make sure you both have a comfortable place to sit and play the game.  By the table or on the floor depending on where you are most comfortable
3. Show each item on the tray and name it with the child.  Let them have a good look at what is on the tray
4. Cover the items on the tray with the towel and take an item away without your child seeing the item 
5. Once you have done this uncover the tray and ask your child to see if they can tell you what's missing
6. Take it in turns to have a go.  This is a good old fashioned game that is totally free to play because you have everything you need at home

This game helps children to:

• Take turns
• Develop eye contact
• Develops social skills
• Develops listening skills
• Develops vocabulary
• Develops memory skills
• Develop a sense of achievement by finding out the missing item

Here is one I played recently with my friends little boy who is dinosaur mad .