Factors Affecting Children's Memory and Methods to Improve It

Children's memory is influenced by various factors, and having a good memory can greatly enhance their learning abilities. Similar to other skills, memory can be improved through specific methods such as choosing the optimal time for learning, timely review, and consistent rehearsal. With the right approach and sustained effort, children's memory can significantly improve.

1. Choosing the Optimal Time

According to the serial position effect of memory, the best times for memory during the day are in the morning and before going to sleep. Studying or memorizing content shortly before bed and after waking up typically results in better retention, especially before bedtime, as the brain is in a relatively rested state and less likely to be distracted by other information, leading to stronger memories.

2. Timely Review

German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus described the forgetting curve, which illustrates the pattern of forgetting new information. This curve demonstrates that forgetting occurs rapidly at first and then gradually slows down. If new knowledge is not reviewed promptly after a day, only a quarter of it may be retained. Therefore, to overcome this forgetting pattern, newly acquired knowledge should be reviewed in a timely manner to enhance retention.

3. Consistent Rehearsal

Rehearsal is a crucial aspect of memory retention. It involves expressing the material seen or heard in your own words, based on your understanding. This process transfers the information from short-term memory to long-term memory, resulting in stronger retention.

4. Attempting Recitation

Some children may repeatedly read a text but still find it difficult to recite it, which can be discouraging. It's essential to encourage children to attempt recitation, even if they cannot recite it perfectly at first. Through repeated attempts, feedback, and corrections, they can gradually improve their recitation skills.

5. Understanding the Meaning

Rote memorization is a mechanical form of memory that often fails to leave a lasting impression. However, understanding the content first and expressing it in simple, familiar language, or relating it to real-life experiences and prior knowledge, can significantly enhance memory retention. This approach facilitates smoother processing of information in the brain, leading to deeper memories.

6. Utilizing Multiple Sensory Channels

When memorizing boring materials, it can be helpful to engage multiple senses. For instance, combining listening, writing, and reading can enhance memory retention. The more senses involved in the learning process, the more difficult it will be to forget the information.