Let’s Help Improve Your Working Memory!

Recently, we have been receiving some requests and inquiries as to resources and support for improving a child’s working memory. Working memory is one of the executive functions needed in both learning and in daily life. Sometimes, memory issues can develop or co-exist with other challenges, such as ADHD, dyslexia or autism spectrum disorders.

So to respond to these requests for information, we thought it would be a good idea to provide our readers this week with some tips, strategies, apps and other resources to assist parents and teachers in helping children (and adults, too!) improve their working memories.

Info, Tips & Strategies for Working Memory Improvement

What Is Working Memory and Why Does It Matter?---by Anne Stuart from NCLD
Working memory involves a short-term use of memory and attention. Learn more about working memory here.
http://www.ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/executive-function-disorders/what-is-working-memory-why-does-matter

Memory and Children with Learning Disabilities---by W.N. Bender from Pearson Allyn Bacon Prentice Hall & education.com
Good explanations and brief definitions for terms used to discuss “working memory” (good overview).
http://www.education.com/reference/article/memory-children-learning/

How to Help a Child with Weak Working Memory---by Anne Stuart from NCLD
Does your child have a weakness with verbal (auditory) or visual-spatial working memory? Fortunately, there are many ways to help -- from teaching ways to compensate to lifestyle changes to brain-training techniques.
http://www.ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/executive-function-disorders/how-to-help-child-with-weak-working-memory

Don't Forget: Memory Tips for ADHD Students---by Matthew Cruger, Ph.D. from ADDitude Magazine
15 expert tips for boosting memory in students with ADHD or learning disabilities and improving academic performance.
http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/772.html

Latest Working Memory Articles
Access page to ADHD Treatment: The Digital Approach and other related articles
http://learningworksforkids.com/skills/working-memory/

The Memory Toolbox: 75 Tips and Resources to Go from Amnesic to Elephantic---by Daniel Strauss
Comprehensive article offering very practical and do-able strategies to improve memory. Also includes information about learning styles and their relationship to memory improvement. (Presented in bullet format for easy reading AND remembering!)
http://oedb.org/library/features/the-memory-toolbox

Apps & Games to Help with Working Memory

Crazy Copy Games HD Free Lite - for iPad---by Hien Ton
This app uses working memory by having children repeat combinations of colors.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/crazy-copy-games-hd-free-lite/id376779082?mt=8

Build Your Personalized Brain Training Program (Memory)---by Luminosity
For ALL ages--- Help with recalling the location of objects, learning new subjects quickly and accurately, keeping track of several ideas at the same time, and remembering names after the first introduction
http://www.lumosity.com/app/v4/personalization/surveys/training-program/survey_categories/your-memory/user_survey_responses/new

Featured Video Games for Working Memory (Yes, video games--really!)---from Learning Works for Kids
Descriptions, reviews, ratings and more about how the following video games can help improve working memory:

• Okamiden
Recommended Age: 10+
Skills Used: Flexibility, Focus, Working Memory, Reading
http://learningworksforkids.com/playbooks/okamiden/

• Paladog
Recommended Age: 6+
Skills Used: Focus, Working Memory, Mathematics, Reading
http://learningworksforkids.com/playbooks/paladog/

• Tap Tap Revenge Tour
Recommended Age: 7+
Skills Used: Focus, Working Memory
http://learningworksforkids.com/playbooks/tap-tap-revenge-tour/

• Mario Party 9
Recommended Age: 8+
Skills Used: Flexibility, Focus, Working Memory
http://learningworksforkids.com/playbooks/mario-party-9/

GOAL: Let’s “work” to improve our working memories this week!

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of: http://www.topnews.in/health/human-brain-bigger-chimps-foetal-stage-216954