Simple techniques to help students with weak memory
Is your child struggling to grasp the content of his lessons? How can you support his studies and enhance his self-esteem?
Here’s a brief list of simple assistance techniques.
A child may encounter challenges with both short-term and long-term memory. These difficulties are likely more pronounced when processing information delivered through spoken words compared to visual stimulation. Numerous games and activities are designed to reinforce memory skills, both auditory and visual, and can be implemented in both the family and classroom settings. For instance, a simple exercise involves presenting the child with a set of objects, removing one or more items from the collection, and then asking the child to recall which object was taken away.
Short-term memory:
1. Keep verbal instructions short, and regularly check for the child’s comprehension. In addition to verbal cues, incorporate visual prompts. Children who tend to forget specific information can benefit from the introduction of a visual cue—a symbol that can be gradually phased out, like an “erase” sign. For those struggling with spelling, letter recognition, or sound names, a multi- sensory approach involving visual, verbal, and tactile methods is beneficial.
2. Facilitate the child’s engagement in activities by offering a reminder at the beginning of each lesson about the material to be covered (instructions can be in writing). Ensure a clear lesson overview, particularly beneficial for children with memory difficulties.
For instance:
Today, we will delve into the fascinating world of ancient Greeks. By the end of the day:
• You’ll grasp three key aspects of ancient Greek clothing.
• You’ll be able to write down the differences between our clothing and that of the ancient Greek.
At the lesson’s end, assess whether the child achieved these goals and document their knowledge.
3. Utilize checklist reminders to mark off each completed action, providing valuable support for
the child during the activity.
4. Encourage the child to elucidate the learned information to another child or an adult,
fostering internalization and facilitating easier recall in the future.
Long-term memory:
For a child facing challenges in long-term memory, using strategies tailored to their learning style can be beneficial. Here are some related ideas:
1. Create a straightforward visual record of the information learned, such as a spelling chart. This chart can document words the child sometimes recalls and sometimes forgets, highlighting the areas for focused improvement. It serves as a reliable database that the child can rely on.
2. Explore techniques like information maps, which involve diagrams illustrating information with connections and branches between sections. This method is particularly advantageous for unit-based work, allowing the child to document and expand upon their learning as thematic activities progress.
Caution! It’s important to recognize that there might be factors beyond memory difficulties affecting a child’s ability to retain information. The child could be experiencing anxiety about tasks or concerns about accuracy, or they may be hindered by other factors impacting their information retention, such as distractions or general emotional difficulties. All these factors must be considered by the individual assisting them in their studies!
