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Memory plays a bigger role in education than we often acknowledge. We talk around it all the time, especially when children struggle: “He knew it yesterday, but today it’s like he’s never seen it before.” “She looked at me like I had three heads when I asked about something we discussed last week.”

We also dance around it regarding spelling and sight words: “Why does he ace every spelling test, but his writing is full of mistakes?” “She’s read that word 20 times… why isn’t she remembering it?”

Understanding memory can unlock a lot of these mysteries. It helps to think about memory in three key parts:

• Encoding: The process of taking in new information.
• Consolidation: Strengthening and storing that information over time.
• Retrieval: Pulling that information back up when needed.

When any of these steps break down, learning, and more importantly, applying learning, becomes much harder. Children with strong working and long-term memory tend to find school easier, but the good news is that memory can be strengthened!

How Can You Help Your Child Strengthen Their Memory?

Evoke Prior Knowledge: Connect new learning to what they already know. It’s easier to add onto an existing foundation than to start from scratch. Think of it like making brownies: adding extra chocolate chips to a mix is way easier than baking from scratch!

Use Two Strategies at a Time: Learning sticks better when paired with multiple representations. Imagine putting together Ikea furniture, wouldn’t it be easier if they included words with those confusing pictures? The same goes for learning: pair verbal explanations with visuals or combine concrete and abstract representations. For example, when teaching a young child 2+3, show them two blocks and three blocks to count alongside the number sentence.

Space Learning Over Time: Cramming doesn’t work for long-term memory. Instead of reviewing spelling words or math facts the night before a test, spread practice over time. Quick weekly quizzes and regular review help information stick.

Guide Study Time: Help your child figure out how they learn best. Do they thrive with flashcards? Do they need visuals? Would turning study time into a game help? Over time, they’ll develop study habits that work for them, and learn that forgetting is part of the process unless they actively work to retain information.

Prioritize Sleep: Research has found that the consolidation process occurs while we sleep. Studies show that children who consistently get 8–10 hours of sleep between learning sessions retain information better. Sleep isn’t just for rest; it’s for learning, too!

While some of us (fine, I’m speaking for myself here) may be beyond saving when it comes to remembering where we left our keys, there’s so much we can do to help our kids build strong memory skills. And in the end, a well-trained memory isn’t just the key to academic success; it’s the foundation for lifelong learning.