Halloween Alphabet Matching Game – Spot It Style Cards Early Literacy

Halloween Alphabet Matching Game –

Spot It Style Cards for Early Literacy

This Halloween card set is based on the familiar “Spot It” style game but adapted for alphabet and early literacy practice. I like to bring it out in late October when my class is full of energy but still needs structured learning. The mix of playful competition and letter recognition makes it a good fit for both Pre-K and early elementary groups.

The set includes 93 cards in total, arranged as three complete decks with 31 cards each. Every card shows six different Halloween-themed pictures. The fun part is that any two cards always share exactly one picture in common. Students race to find the match between their card and the one in the center pile. Whoever names it first keeps the card. The round continues until the stack is finished, and the player with the most cards wins.

There are three versions of the cards: round, square, and hexagonal. I usually print one full set, laminate it, and keep it in a small box for the season. The round cards feel most like the original game, while the square version is quicker to cut. The hexagons are eye-catching and add variety.

In my kindergarten group, this game helped students practice quick recognition of letters and pictures. It also encouraged turn-taking and teamwork. For ESL learners, the visual clues and repeated naming of pictures gave extra support with vocabulary. Some of my students even started making up their own rules, such as timed rounds or team challenges, which kept the activity fresh.

The game works well in literacy centers, as a short brain break, or as an activity for early finishers. It requires very little preparation beyond printing and cutting. Because it is flexible in design, you can use just part of the deck if you want a shorter game.

This resource is best suited for preschool, kindergarten, and grade 1, but I have also seen older students enjoy it simply as a seasonal challenge. It is a playful way to bring some Halloween atmosphere into the classroom without losing the focus on learning.

Warm regards,
Lernfitness

Did You Know?

I teach with a certified therapy dog, and together we focus on creating a positive and inspiring learning environment.