Memory Pairs
Turn the tiles two at a time and find every matching pair.
How it helps Remember where each picture was.
Skill · 8 puzzles · ages 3+
Memory Puzzles for Kids
Working memory is holding information in mind while thinking about the next step. Memory pairs train it directly; Tower of Hanoi, Sokoban and sudoku need it to keep track of what’s been tried.
Why it matters
Working memory supports following instructions, mental arithmetic and reading comprehension. Puzzles exercise it in a calm, low-pressure way.
How to help
- In memory puzzles, say where a picture was aloud to help remember it.
- Start small (four tiles) and grow; success builds confidence.
- Short, regular sessions beat long ones.
In the curriculum
Executive function: working memory (NEL Learning dispositions; supports MP1).
8 puzzles that build working memory, by age
Hidden Blocks
Copy the picture on the card by turning and arranging the blocks.
How it helps Hold the card’s picture in mind while turning blocks.
Hakoiri Musume
Japan’s classic sliding-block puzzle: slide the big block out of the box.
How it helps Remember which moves free up space.
Puzzle Box
A Japanese secret box. Slide the hidden panels in the right order to open it.
How it helps Remember the order the panels slide in.
Tower of Hanoi
Move the tower to the last peg. A big ring never sits on a small one.
How it helps Keep track of where each ring has to go next.
Luban Lock
Take the wooden lock apart. Only one piece can move at a time.
How it helps Remember the order the pieces came out.
Questions parents ask
What is working memory?
Remembering where things are and what has been tried, while working on the next step.
Which puzzles build working memory?
8 AmuseMind puzzles build it, from ages 3+: Memory Pairs, Hidden Blocks, Hakoiri Musume, Puzzle Box, Sudoku, Tower of Hanoi and more.
Are these puzzles free?
Every puzzle is free to try in the browser, with no sign-up and no ads.