Basic memory skills include the ability to recall information. One specific type of memory is visual memory, which specifically describes the relationship between what the brain has seen and its ability to retrieve and apply that information. Many studies have shown a correlation between poor visual memory skills and poor achievement in school, most often for children with learning disabilities such a dyslexia, autism, and ADHD.
Why is visual memory so important? They are used in everyday life. Recall the last time you read a map for directions, or memorized a phone number to dial. Preschoolers rely on visual memory more than their older school aged peers, mostly because they must rely on visual memory to learn the subtle differences in the shapes of letters and numbers. As children grow and develop, their visual memory skills will also. Developing such skill is a step by step process that can be improved with practice.
Below is a quick game that can improve a youngster’s visual memory skills.
Begin with a basket of toys and objects that are familiar to your child. Place a few items on a tray and ask your child to name them. Then have your child close his eyes while your remove one object from the tray.
Ask your child to open his eyes and name what object was taken away.
The number of objects you choose to use for this activity should depend on the age and ability level of your child. A young toddler may only be able to work with two objects at a time, while a preschooler may find success with three to four objects. It is also appropriate to demonstrate the activity a few times as well. And your child will also benefit from hearing your thinking and processing as you explain your answer to which object was removed.
Try it out. Your kiddie will enjoy a new variation of the game memory.
For further reading:
Working Memory and Education by Susan J. Pickering Short-Term Memory, Working Memory, and Executive Functioning in Preschoolers: Longitudinal Predictors of Mathematical Achievement at Age 7 Years by Rebecca Bull et all Can You Make Yourself Smarter by Dan Hurley School Based Working Memory Training: Preliminary Finding of Improvement in Children’s Mathematical Performance by Marcus Witt
I am Sarah, an educator turned stay-at-home mama of five! I am the owner and creator of Stay At Home Educator, a website about intentional teaching and purposeful learning in the early childhood years. I’ve taught range of levels, including preschool and college, and a little bit of just about everything in between. Right now, my focus is teaching my children and running a preschool from my home. Credentials include: Bachelors in Art, Masters in Curriculum and Instruction
I really like this idea!
oooh fantastic activity. I can’t wait to try this with my little boy.
Thanks for linking to Fun sparks xx
Such a simple way to build memory!
Thanks for sharing with Learning Laboratory =)
Great idea! I love that it’s so simple to prepare yet so beneficial at the same time. Thanks so much for linking up with Montessori Monday. I featured your post at the Living Montessori Now Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/LivingMontessoriNow