Does your child struggle to recall what they’ve learned at school? As parents, it can be stressful to see your child put forth effort but still forget important information. Whether it’s a historical date, a math formula, or vocabulary phrases, memorisation might feel like an impossible task. The fact is that memorisation does not need cramming or endless repetition. It’s about using clever methods to make knowledge stick. Let’s look at the key to effective memorisation so your child can improve their memory and confidently approach learning.
1. Create a distraction-free study space
The first step towards enhanced memorisation is to create an atmosphere conducive to concentration. When your child is surrounded by noise, screens, or clutter, remembering anything becomes difficult.
Consider it like growing a garden. Weeds in the soil prevent seeds from growing. A clean, calm, and pleasant study environment provides rich ground for learning. Encourage your child to turn off distractions such as the TV or phone and keep their workplace clean.
Even minor adjustments, such as utilising a nice chair or good lighting, can make a significant impact. When the brain is not distracted, it can devote its complete attention to processing and remembering information.
2. Use active recall
Active recall is a highly successful memorisation method. It’s a fancy word for something simple: rather than just reading or underlining notes, your child actively attempts to recall the information without looking at it.
For example, if they’re studying for a geography test, you may ask them, “What is the capital of Japan?”. Retrieving the answer from memory (Tokyo) improves their recall abilities. Think of the brain as a muscle.
It becomes stronger as you utilise it. Fun ways to develop active recall include quizzing your child, asking them to clarify topics, and even playing memory games.
3. Practice spaced repetition
Spaced repetition is one of the most well-kept secrets of good memory retention. This technique involves reviewing material at increasing intervals over time, instead of cramming all at once.
Imagine attempting to fill a jar with water. If you pour too rapidly, it will overflow and waste a lot of water. Spaced repetition, like pouring slowly allows the brain to effectively absorb and store information.
For example, if your child is learning vocabulary terms, they may go over the list today, then again in two days, and finally a week later. This steady reinforcement helps the transfer of information from short-term to long-term memory.
4. Make learning fun and relatable
Memorisation does not have to be a chore. When children connect learning with enjoyment, they are more likely to remember what they have learned. Use creative methods to bring facts to life.
For instance, if they’re learning the multiplication tables, make it into a rhythm or song. If they need to remember historical events, create a story or use humorous mnemonics. An easy method for remembering the planets in sequence (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, etc.) is the line, “My very educated mother just served us noodles.”
Learning is more effective when it seems like play. Consider planting a seed in fertile soil and the effects will be considerably stronger.
5. Encourage visualisation
The human brain loves images. In fact, visuals are typically more memorable than words. Encourage your child to utilize visuals to help with memorization.
For example, if students are studying the water cycle, they can create a graphic that depicts evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. Alternatively, if children are acquiring vocabulary terms, they might correlate each one with a mental image.
Consider this a mental photo album. When your child wants to remember anything, they may “flip through” these images in their memory. It’s an effective approach to make abstract ideas more concrete and memorable.
6. Foster a growth mindset
One of the most underestimated factors of successful memorization is mentality. Children who feel they can enhance their memory have a higher chance of success. Encourage your child to view obstacles as chances for growth.
If they have trouble remembering anything, remind them that it is alright to make mistakes. The process of learning and practice is what improves their skills. Praise their efforts and progress, not simply the outcome.
Think of it like learning to ride a bike: it takes time, crashes, and practice before they can cycle comfortably. They will succeed if they are patient and persistent.
Conclusion
Memorisation doesn’t have to be difficult. Your child may improve their memory skills and gain confidence in their abilities by setting the ideal atmosphere, employing tried-and-true strategies such as active recall and spaced repetition, and making learning enjoyable and engaging.
At Alchemy Tuition, we realize the importance of providing children with the necessary skills for success. Our skilled tutors in Australia are available to help your kid on their learning journey, whether they need assistance with academics or want to improve their study skills.
Remember that the secret to good memorisation is to work smarter rather than harder. Let us help your child reach their greatest potential now!
