Supporting Kids with Working Memory Challenges: What Parents Need to Know
Understanding Memory: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Working Memory
One of the most incredible traits we possess is our ability to remember. Our memory can be divided into two main types: short-term memory and long-term memory.
Long-term memory is like a vast library, where we store an endless amount of information over our lifetime.
Short-term memory, on the other hand, is much more limited. It allows us to hold a small amount of information temporarily. For example, if someone tells you their phone number, you can remember it for a short while, but chances are you’ll forget it quickly. This is because short-term memory has both limited capacity and duration.
Fortunately, we also have working memory, which plays a crucial role in daily life. Working memory is like a mental workspace where we can hold and manipulate small amounts of information to solve problems or complete tasks.
What Is Working Memory and Why Does It Matter?
Working memory involves two components:
The "memory" part: Temporarily holding information.
The "working" part: Actively using that information.
For example:
When solving a math problem like 26 + 21 in your head, you must hold both numbers while performing the calculation.
When following a list of instructions, you rely on working memory to retain the steps and carry them out in sequence.
For children, strong working memory is essential for learning, language development, and academic success.
How Does Working Memory Affect Speech and Language Development?
Research shows a strong link between working memory difficulties and language challenges. Children and adolescents with weaker working memory often experience issues with language, learning, and academic performance.
We use working memory for a variety of tasks, such as:
Understanding what we read.
Solving math problems.
Following instructions.
Participating in conversations.
Learning new information.
Working memory is essential for academic success and everyday functioning.
Signs of Working Memory Difficulties in Children
If you're concerned your child might have working memory challenges, watch for these signs:
Difficulty completing multi-step instructions (e.g. "Make your bed, brush your teeth, and pack your bag").
Trouble understanding what they’ve read.
Struggles with mental math problems.
Difficulty copying information from the board at school.
Taking longer to complete creative writing tasks due to frequent pauses to re-read or plan.
Problems remembering sight words or letter-sound relationships.
Addressing Working Memory Challenges
Research suggests that children with weaker working memory may not "catch up" to their peers over time. While their working memory capacity improves with age, it may remain below average. However, there are strategies and interventions that can help children use their working memory more efficiently.
It’s essential for children with working memory difficulties to undergo a comprehensive assessment by:
A psychologist, who can evaluate their working memory.
A speech pathologist, who can assess how working memory affects their language and literacy skills.
Every child is unique, so tailored strategies are crucial for supporting their language and learning needs.
Strategies to Support Working Memory
Here are some effective strategies for children with working memory challenges, reordered for variety:
Simplify Instructions
Break instructions into one or two simple steps. For example:Instead of: "Before you go outside, clean your room, put on your shoes, and grab your bag."
Say: "Clean your room and grab your bag."
Use Visual Aids
Pictures or visual reminders can help children with language or literacy difficulties remember tasks.Teach Mental Rehearsal
Encourage your child to repeat information to themselves, like a phone number or a shopping list, until they can write it down or act on it.Write Things Down
Use tools like mini whiteboards or checklists to offload memory demands.
Example: Write “1. Shoes, 2. Teeth,” so your child can tick off tasks as they complete them.Develop Language Skills
Strengthening language skills can indirectly improve working memory and enhance overall academic performance.Use Reference Tools
Provide charts, posters, or word banks for reference. For example, a classroom could have a times table chart, or a home could have a visual schedule.Introduce Mnemonics
Mnemonics are patterns or tricks to support memory, like using "FACE" to remember musical notes.Relate New Information to Familiar Concepts
Connect tasks to logical sequences, like brushing teeth before putting on shoes in a head-to-toe order.Use Visual and Verbal Cues
Tell your child what to focus on and repeat key points. For example:“Remember two things: 1. Shoes on, 2. Brush teeth.”
Be Patient and Supportive
Parenting a child with working memory challenges can be frustrating, but patience and understanding go a long way in helping them thrive.
Final Thoughts
Children with working memory difficulties can achieve success with the right support and strategies. By addressing their challenges and leveraging tailored interventions, we can help them build their skills and confidence. Working with professionals, such as speech pathologists and psychologists, ensures that your child receives the guidance they need to reach their full potential.
Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step in supporting your child’s communication and confidence. Our experienced speech pathologists are here to help! Learn more about our speech pathology services for children.
Together, we can help your child thrive!
Phone: 0474 248 081
Email: enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com