Improving Memory Skills

No matter how good your child's memory skills are, there is probably room for improvement.  Memory skills can be improved by using memory aids and memory tricks.

Before you can successfully memorize something, you must do four important things:   

be interested in the material,

understand the material,

organize the material, and

give the material your full attention

Memory Aids

There are three memory aids that are an important part of good memory skills.  Using calendars/agendas, lists, and note cards help children with organizing important information that they can later refer back to.

• Calendars/agenda - As your child does schoolwork, there are important dates to remember, such as test dates and due dates for assignments.  Calendars or agendas will help your child remember these dates without having to memorize  them.

• Lists - Keeping a list of things to do also can help your child remember important items without having to memorize them.  However it is very important that your child checks the lists every day and remembers to do the things on the lists.

• Note Cards - When your child needs to memorize something, it is a good idea to write the material on note cards. Notes cards can then be used to review the information and recall important facts.

Other Helpful Hints

Avoid Overload - Don't try to do it all in one day.  It is okay to take a short break, get some exercise or play, just be ready to get back to your studies when you break is finished.  Also, don't put off your studies or project until the last possible moment. Thinking you will get to it later does not always reflect your best work.  It is better to work on your studies or a project little each day giving it your best each time. 

Use Your Senses - No matter what kind of memory trick you use, try to involve as many senses as you can.  

Study Plan-  Develop habits that allow you to reserve time when you will study. Trying to memorize large amounts of information in one session is not always the best approach.  Plan to review information from time to time, over several days.

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