How To Help Children And Youth With Memory Challenges
Can’t Remember Details; Names Of Things; Has Small Vocabulary;
Can’t Remember What Has Been Seen; Can’t Remember What Has Been Heard
Without help, memory challenges can make living and learning very difficult and frustrating. They can erode self-confidence. Memory challenges can prevent learning easily and are often a major factor involved in difficulties in learning mathematics, reading, language, and following instructions. Memory challenges can be due to and complicated by a combination of: medical conditions; learning/developmental challenges; genetic factors; discomfort from unhealed physical trauma (especially to the head, neck, spine, and pelvis); abuses of all kinds; repressed emotions; chaotic family patterns; environmental pollutants; nutritional imbalances; prolonged illness; medications; a lack of instruction and practice with memory strategies.
Can’t Remember Details, Names Of Things; Has Small Vocabulary; Can’t Remember What Has Been Seen; Can’t Remember What Has Been Heard: Often given the label “short term memory problem.” Or “working memory problem.” This can make learning difficult - especially in reading, writing and arithmetic. Children & youth begin to doubt their own intelligence and begin to become tense when they have to learn something. This doubt can reduce self-esteem which can further slow learning.
First, We Would Investigate |
Second, We Would Investigate |
For Long Term Support |
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On Our Own We Would Try: • Less or No TV, Movies, Video/Computer Games • Bedtime Stories and Chats • Replace sodas, juices, sugars, fats, fast foods with water, veggies, whole grains, nuts, protein, fruit, slow food • Long Walks/Hikes • Wholesome Pleasures • Back Rubs and Foot Massages • Nature • Pets |
For Parents: • Get a medical and psychological assessment if these challenges persist. • Identify which type of memory challenge your child or youth experiences with the help of school district psychologists and teachers. • Get family, friends, community and religious organizations to help the child or youth learn memory skills. • They can help the child or youth get caught up academically in enjoyable ways. |