My 11 Year-Old Is Finding It Difficult to Memorise Information

“My eleven years old boy is finding it difficult to memorize for school information, I need help with at-home memory activities and strengthening exercises.” 

It may be that your child has issues with his working memory. Here are a few strategies you can try at home to support him: 

• Break it down: a simple school task may actually require a lot of working memory and your child may find it too daunting, causing anxiety. My recommendation is that you break up the task into smaller chunks to avoid cognitive overload. 

• Use visual cues: he can for example, draw a mind up to help him memorize the topic, use flash cards, use post-its as reminders… 

• Create a routine: every single evening after school, he could go over the different topics he has learnt at school. He should revise and improve his notes or practice exercises they may have done. Being consistent helps a lot.  

• Use strategies that force him to use and retrieve the information he must learn: use quizzes, mock tests, ask him to explain the topic to you.  

• Explain to your child how memory works: every time he uses the information he needs to memorize, the brain pathway gets stronger. Try to connect whatever he is learning with things in your everyday life. Watch a movie or read a book on the same topic.  

I also think is worth talking to his tutor to see if they are seeing the same problem at school. If the problem persists and is affecting his academic achievement, it may be worth consulting a psychologist or your doctor. Supporting your child may be frustrating for you, reach out if you want support.  

I hope this helps! I wish you both all the very best.  

Love, 

Ana 

Dr Ana Aznar 

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