Why Find the Pair works

Find matching pairs from a mixed set by using a chosen relationship, not necessarily identical appearance. Choose one item from the mixed set. Describe what kind of partner would make sense.

Set up — Choose one item from the mixed set

No special materials are needed before the child is asked to choose one item from the mixed set. Use the result of having the child choose one item from the mixed set as the setup for the move into describe what kind of partner would make sense. Use age-appropriate pieces and avoid small loose parts for children who may mouth objects while that starting condition is being established.

Step 2 — Describe what kind of partner would make sense

Ask the child to describe what kind of partner would make sense. Compare what happens with the earlier step to choose one item from the mixed set, then continue by asking them to search the remaining items for that partner once the difference is clear.

Step 3 — Search the remaining items for that partner

Let the child search the remaining items for that partner and treat the result as information rather than simple repetition. If it is unclear, repeat that action before asking them to place the pair together and explain the relationship.

Step 4 — Place the pair together and explain the relationship

One careful attempt to place the pair together and explain the relationship is enough at this stage. Before the child tries to continue until every item has a justified partner, ask them to show or describe what differed from when they had to search the remaining items for that partner.

Step 5 — Continue until every item has a justified partner

Use the result of asking the child to continue until every item has a justified partner as a clue for the next decision. Do not move on to continue until every item has a justified partner until this step has a clear purpose.

What to notice before Continue until every item has a justified partner

Keep adult commentary light while the child works toward place the pair together and explain the relationship. Their own response should show which clue, position, or relationship supports the answer before the activity finishes with the request to continue until every item has a justified partner.

Make Search the remaining items for that partner easier or harder

For younger or less confident players, use fewer items and make the relevant difference more obvious before the step to search the remaining items for that partner. If the child asks for more, add one plausible distractor, remove one cue, or ask the child to explain the rule and then return to the final request to continue until every item has a justified partner.

Finish after Continue until every item has a justified partner

Continue until every item has a justified partner. Stop there while the rule and result are still easy to remember. Find the next activity in the activity search, or make a new one with the activity generator.