Supporting Your Child’s Learning: Strategies for Processing Speed, Attention, and Working Memory Challenges
Every child learns differently, and for some, challenges like slow processing speed, attention difficulties, or working memory struggles can make schoolwork feel overwhelming. As parents, understanding these challenges and adopting effective strategies can make a significant difference in supporting your child’s learning journey.
Here are some practical, research-based strategies to help your child overcome these obstacles:
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1. Breaking Down Tasks (Chunking Information)
Large tasks can feel daunting, especially for children with processing or memory difficulties. Break assignments or instructions into smaller, manageable steps. For example, instead of saying, “Tidy your room,” break it into specific actions like “Pick up your toys, put your books on the shelf, and make your bed.”
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2. Visual Aids and Cues
Visual supports can make learning more accessible. Use tools like diagrams, pictures, colour coding, or sticky notes to help your child process and remember information. Visual schedules and checklists are especially helpful for multi-step tasks.
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3. Clear and Concise Instructions
Deliver instructions one step at a time. Ensure your child understands each step before moving on to the next (ask them to repeat the instruction). Avoid overloading them with too much information at once.
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4. Practice and Repetition
Repetition strengthens memory and builds automaticity. Encourage your child to regularly review material or practise new skills. Brain training games, puzzles, and reading exercises can also improve cognitive speed and retention.
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5. Minimise Distractions
Create a quiet, organised workspace for your child, free from unnecessary distractions like noise or clutter. If focus is a challenge, use headphones (ear defenders or loop ear plugs) or calming background music to block out distractions.
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6. Use Mnemonic Devices
Help your child remember information by using memory aids like acronyms, rhymes, or visual imagery. For example, to remember the planets, use the mnemonic “My Very Educated Mum Just Served Us Noodles.”
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7. Multisensory Learning
Engage multiple senses when teaching new concepts. For example, combine visuals with hands-on activities or pair verbal instructions with written notes. Use movement to make learning fun eg the game, Twister, can support learning if you add different sounds (spellings) your child is learning or times tables, on the spots.This approach can improve understanding and retention.
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8. Build Self-Advocacy Skills
Encourage your child to identify their challenges and communicate their needs to teachers or peers. This can include asking for extra time, using visual reminders, or taking breaks when needed.
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Specific Strategies for Common Challenges
Processing Speed
Use timed activities that gradually increase in difficulty to build speed and confidence.
Incorporate brain training games to improve cognitive processing.
Encourage regular reading to strengthen information processing.
Attention Difficulties
Break tasks into short bursts of focused work, followed by regular breaks.
Use movement activities or fidget tools to re-engage attention (not all fidget toys are effective).
Incorporate active tasks like writing on whiteboards or using hands-on materials.
Working Memory Challenges
Break tasks into smaller units to reduce overload.
Provide checklists and visual reminders for multi-step activities.
Use verbal rehearsal (e.g., repeating instructions out loud) to reinforce information.
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Key Considerations for Parents
Individualised Approach: Tailor strategies to meet your child’s unique needs and learning style.
Patience and Positivity: Celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how small, and provide encouragement along the way.
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How Educational MOT Can Help
At Educational MOT, we specialise in helping children with processing speed, attention, and working memory challenges. Through our tailored Educational MOT Assessment, we identify your child’s strengths and learning needs, providing personalised strategies to help them thrive.
With over 25 years of experience, we are committed to helping every child unlock their full learning potential.
💻 Visit www.educationalmot.com to learn more about how we can support your child’s learning journey!
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By implementing these strategies and fostering a supportive environment, you can help your child build confidence, overcome challenges, and enjoy the process of learning.
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