Memorization Tips for Kids

Here are a few ways that I help my kids when they have to memorize something.

Whenever my children have something they have to memorize, whether it is a Bible verse, physics formula, or Latin conjugations they write the information on a piece of paper and place it in an old plastic bag. Then they tape the bag to either the mirror or the wall of the shower. This allows them to work on their memorization while brushing their teeth or washing their hair. When company comes over you can tape the plastic bags to the inside of the medicine cabinet to avoid looking like a task master.

I have found that my children retain information longer if they are moving while memorizing, which I realize seems counterintuitive, but it is true. I also find that my kids are able to memorize more if they break it into small daily sessions, rather than one long cram session the day before they will be tested on the information.

Another memorization tip that works for small pieces of information is to write it on a white board, then erase it one word, letter, or symbol at a time. Each time a bit is erased, the child repeats the entire verse, formula, or conjugation. By the time the white board has been completely erased, they have the information memorized.

What memorization techniques work for your children? Please tell me that I am not the only mom who lets her kids jump on the trampoline or stroll around the back yard while memorizing!