File folder games

File folder games

I enjoy creating fun and simple activities for little ones. Today, I would like to suggest ways you can use file folders to create interesting games and activities. Although file folders can seem very simple and unattractive, they inspire me because they are easy to store and transport. I find them perfect for relaxation activities and transitions. Have fun creating these file folder games for your group!

Drawing pocket
You will need:

• A file folder
• Sheets of white paper
• A hole-punch
• Two metal or plastic rings

Use the hole-punch to make two holes on the left side of each sheet of paper. Punch two holes on the left side of the file folder, at the same level. Arrange the sheets in the file folder. Insert a ring in each set of holes. Let children draw on the paper.

Tell me a story
You will need:

• A file folder
• Velcro
• Envelopes
• Cardboard
• Glue
• An illustrated sequential story

Cut the cardboard into four equal rectangles. Number them from 1 to 4. Glue the numbered rectangles on the right side of the open file folder. Stick a piece of Velcro on each rectangle.

Glue an envelope on the left side of the open file folder. Glue a piece of Velcro behind each illustration that is part of the sequential story. Give the file folder to a child and have him place the illustrations in the correct order by pressing them on the numbered rectangles.

Association game
You will need:

• A file folder
• An association game
• Envelopes
• Glue

Cut the illustrations for the association game. Glue a large envelope on the left side of an open file folder and insert the illustrations. On the right side of the open file folder, glue two, three, or four envelopes, depending on the number of categories required for your association game. Glue a picture representing a category on each envelope.

To play, children pick one illustration at a time and insert it in the correct envelope, depending on the category.

Tracing activity
You will need:

• A file folder
• Two maze activity sheets
• Dry-erase markers
• Clear adhesive paper

Print two simple maze activity sheets and glue them inside the file folder, one on the left side and one on the right side. Use the adhesive paper to laminate both activity sheets. To play, children use the dry-erase markers to trace the paths. Erase their work with a moist facecloth when they are done. Children can reuse this activity as often as they wish.

Maude Dubé, Specialized educator