Working memory plays a critical role in learning and performing everyday activities. It lets the brain to store new information for a brief period, as long as it is required for short-term use. The working memory can also assist changing short-term memories into long-term memories.
Many children who experience problems with learning and paying attention may have problems with their working memory. Below are some important things to know about working memory:
Things You Must Know About Working Memory
The Brain’s Key Functions
We can hold new information when we are busy doing other activities. The working memory makes this possible. Children need a healthy working memory to do well in the classroom. It allows children to hold onto new information and visualize things.
For example, it lets kids perform simple math calculations by visualizing the numbers in their brain. While the child may forget the numbers the next day, it is absolutely normal. Working memory has assisted your kid in performing the activities at hand.
Problems That May Happen
If your working memory is poor, you may find it difficult to hold and process new information in your head. For instance, if your kid has problems with his memory, he may recall the numbers the teachers asked to calculate; however, he will not remember what he is supposed to do with the numbers.
Problems with this type of memory can also make it difficult for the patient to follow practical guidelines. For example, if you are told to perform two tasks at once, you may fail to decide which one to do first. Also, you may find that the instruction you received and remembered does not make sense. Or if your child gets classroom instruction in fragmented ways, he will have difficulty following the instruction or remember it.