Working memory
Working memory challenges can cause trouble with all kinds of tasks. And what exactly is working memory?
Think of a "Post-It" note. Working memory holds new information in place so the brain can work with it and integrate it with other information.
Being able to access working memory is an important skill for learning - to solve math problems in your head, or to follow multi-step directions.
Working memory is a part of that crucial group of skills called Executive Function - and for many students - especially those struggling with Learning Differences such as ADHD or Dyslexia, being able to use working memory efficiently can be a challenge. These students often have trouble remembering and retaining information taught in class.
To improve memory skills, the key is to help your child create links - using all of the senses that you can! Visual, auditory, and conceptual associations between bits of information really help!
You can work with your child improve working memory by trying these simple strategies.
Math Mania—Ask students to practice mental math by completing math problems in their heads. As they are completing the steps mentally, ask them to verbalize the steps out loud.
Complete a task—Give students a series of verbal instructions and then ask them to follow the task step-by-step. It’s always fun to do this with recipes, as well.
Reading Comprehension - Draw or create pictures of a scene from a story… the more vivid and colorful, the better!
Study strategies - Teach mnemonic devices like HOMES (the Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Eric and Superior) or Every Good Boy Does Fine (the sequence of notes in the musical treble clef - EGBDF) to help memorize new information.
Teach content with songs - http://musicallyaligned.com is a terrific site with lots of catchy tunes across all content areas. Schoolhouse Rock https://www.youtube.com/user/SchoolhouseRockTV1 is also a favorite of ours!