Memory is a crucial cognitive ability that children need to think and learn, retain information and perform tasks. Sometimes, children can have memory issues due to which they might not be able to remember information for a longer period. This can adversely impact their academic performance and other daily activities.
Fortunately, there are some powerful ways and tricks to boost your child’s memory.
- Try Innovative Learning Methods
When it comes to remembering information, it depends on their grasping power. Some children remember better when information is presented visually, through a project task, visits to places or in a playful manner such as games and songs. Storytelling is another interesting learning tool. Find out what method works best for your child.
- Encourage to Learn by Writing on Paper
Study shows that writing by hand on physical paper shows stronger brain activity and improved memory. Ask your children to write down whatever they have to remember. They can use this strategy effectively for their homework assignments and exams.
- Play Memory Games
If your children are in pre-school or primary grade, you can improve their memory with some fun games. Play flashcards/word games/card games, use colours and patterns, etc. These days, structured memory-boosting games are also easily available in the market.
- Used Spaced Repetition Technique
Repetition doesn’t mean that you ask the children to mug up learning. Repetition in this context refers to recalling the same information spread across at increasing intervals. For example, one hour, three hours, nine hours, one day and so on. This is called spaced repetition and helps children to remember information better than cramming.
- Give Adequate Nutrition
Are your children eating right? If not, this could be one of the reasons why they have trouble with their memory function. Make sure your children eat healthy and well-balanced food. Some of the foods that boost memory function and concentration are nuts and seeds, whole grains, olive oil, fish, dark green leafy vegetables, etc.
Do you now remember why your mother always insisted on eating a handful of almonds every day, especially during exams?
- Encourage Exercise Routine and Meditation
Various studies show that exercise results in greater brain activation and improves thinking and memory. Encourage your children to engage in daily exercise for at least 45-60 minutes or more, depending on their age. You can even enrol them in sports or physical activity classes such as badminton, dance, swimming or martial arts.
If your child tends to become anxious or worried often, then they can try meditation or deep breathing exercises for a few minutes a day.
- Filter Unwanted Information
At times, your children don’t need to remember all instructions or steps. Find out if you can eliminate unwanted or unimportant information so that they can learn only what is necessary.
If you think any of these methods are not yielding desired results, you can consider enrolling them in mind and memory classes. These classes follow a structured curriculum to improve children’s brain function and memory.
