Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Power of Working Memory Training
Can you remember 17 things?
My student did just that!
Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Power of Working Memory Training
As an educator, I've encountered numerous bright and capable students who suddenly struggle to keep up with their peers. One such student was a 14-year-old girl who had been excelling academically but began falling behind unexpectedly. Her Educational Psychologist's Report identified a working memory deficit as one of the root causes, placing her at the 12th percentile.
After undergoing targeted working memory training, her mother shared this wonderful update:
"I am thrilled to have my eager, engaged daughter back! Her teachers have noticed a remarkable difference in her ability to participate in class and complete work independently. I cannot thank you enough."
“When working memory is weak, even the most intelligent children can struggle.””
Understanding Working Memory
Working memory is a crucial cognitive function that allows us to hold and manipulate information over short periods. It's essential for following multi-step instructions, solving problems, and understanding complex concepts. When working memory is weak, even the most intelligent children can struggle. They may need help; following instructions, grasping concepts, starting tasks, and staying focused. This can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and academic underachievement.
The Role of Educational Psychologist Reports
Educational Psychologist reports are invaluable for identifying problems like working memory deficits. They provide a detailed analysis of a child's cognitive strengths and weaknesses. However, these reports often need to improve in offering practical solutions. Accommodations such as extra time on tests and the option to type assignments can provide some relief, but they don't address the core issue. This is where targeted interventions become crucial.
“Her teachers noticed a remarkable improvement in her ability to participate in class ”
COGMED Working Memory Training: A Solution
I use the renowned COGMED Working Memory training program to help students overcome these challenges. COGMED is an evidence-based program designed to improve the brain's ability to absorb, retain, and utilise information. Through consistent training, my students develop several essential skills:
1. Increased Capacity
They can remember more information, which helps them follow instructions and understand complex tasks.
2. Sustained Attention
They can stay on task for extended periods, reducing distractions and increasing productivity.
3. Better Attention to Detail
They become less likely to overlook important information or make careless mistakes.
4. Increased Self-Confidence
As they experience repeated success, their confidence in their abilities grows.
Real-World Impact
The transformation of my 14-year-old student illustrates the profound impact of working memory training. Initially, she struggled to keep up with her peers and needed constant help to complete her work. After undergoing COGMED training, she became more engaged and independent. Her teachers noticed a remarkable improvement in her ability to participate in class and complete assignments without constant supervision.
Practical Applications
Working memory training isn't just about drills and exercises; it can be integrated into fun and engaging activities. For instance, one exercise I use involves an image from 'Cat in the Hat.' The task is to look at the picture for three minutes and then remember as many items as possible while simultaneously throwing and catching a ball. This exercise trains visual working memory and adds a physical component that makes learning enjoyable.
Why It Matters
If your child struggles in school despite being very smart, they may have a working memory deficit. Ignoring this issue can lead to ongoing frustration and academic difficulties. However, with the proper intervention, these children can unlock their full potential and succeed in school and beyond.
Let's Have a Conversation
Working memory is a fundamental cognitive skill that underpins many aspects of learning and daily functioning. Identifying and addressing working memory deficits can make a significant difference in a child's academic performance and overall well-being. Through programs like COGMED, we can provide children with the tools they need to thrive.
Don't let working memory challenges hold your child back. Contact me today to learn more about how working memory training can transform your child's educational experience and give them the confidence to succeed.
Dyslexia? Dyspraxia? ADHD? ASD? Speech & Language? Developmental Delay? Anxiety?
Is every school day a struggle? As a parent, you may feel exhausted and on this journey alone. Each year you see the gap getting wider. You need to do something - change the approach, help your child learn for themselves, find a way to turn this around - to help while you can - do this NOW. the first step is free.
About the Author
Usha Patel is a Neurocognitive Therapist and Director at Raviv Practice London. Parents searching to help their suspected/neurodiverse child can get evidence-based solutions with results in as little as 8 weeks. Those in search of jargon-free help can get started straight away.
