Object-to-picture and picture-to-picture matching

Object-to-picture and picture-to-picture matching is a classic Montessori activity with so many benefits and opportunities for developing important pre-reading skills. I included this type of work in almost every shelf rotation. 

Montessori learning moves from concrete to abstract so be sure to start with object-to-object matching first to establish a foundation for this matching work. 

I introduced object-to-picture matching at around 18 months, though my daughter didn’t start to show a genuine interest in this work until close to 21 months. I always choose themes that she’s interested in (animals are always a hit with her).

The benefits of this type of work include:

⋒ Visual discrimination skills

⋒ Vocabulary development 

⋒ Providing order – helps to classify/categorizing objects 

⋒ Builds concentration 

⋒ Abstract thinking 

Object-to-picture matching allows the child to begin to explore abstract thinking, making the connection that the object she holds in her hand is the same as the picture, an important pre-reading skill. 

This will set the foundation for picture-to-picture matching, which fully moves into abstract thinking. We tested it at 23 months with a set of Arctic animals and to my surprise A was really into it.

Cleaning up is part of the learning process, so make sure to encourage your child to tidy up after they finish playing. Model how to do it until your child feels confident enough to initiate the tidying up process independently.