Short Term Memory Loss And Children
It is rare for a child to experience true short term memory loss. Children can get easily distracted and change their mind quickly, which may sometimes give the child the appearance of having short term memory loss. Children should receive a proper evaluation and diagnosis if you suspect short term memory loss in children.
Memories Are Based On Senses
Memories are based on our senses. As such, memories will be based on sight, smell, taste, touch and sound. A child can be reminded of a previous experience if the child sees a related object.
The brain uses different systems to process, store and retrieve memories. The memories are stored as short term memories and long term or remote memories. Examples of short term memories include what you ate for breakfast and the television show that you just watched.
Memory Storage
There are certain areas located in the brain that are used for memory storage. Not all memories are stored in just one location in the brain. In this way, brain injury may be sustained without the total loss of the memories. Since memories are stored in the brain, if brain injury or a change in the brain occurs and one of the memory storage locations is affected, those memories may be lost, temporarily or for longer.
Causes Of Memory Loss
Since a change or injury to the brain causes memory loss, the cause of short term memory loss in children can usually be pinpointed to a specific event or experience. Stress, drugs, loss of blood flow or oxygen to the brain, brain injury, illness and medical conditions can cause memory loss in children. Proper evaluation and even neuropsychological testing can be done to diagnose a child who appears to suffer from short term memory loss.
Boost Memory With Simple Activities
You can do fun exercises with children to boost their short term memory. Card games like the match game called Concentration can help a child with their short term memory. The object of the game is to match cards that have been laid down. Any type of activities that involve memory, including learning new songs, will help boost your child's memory.
Short term memory loss in children is a serious condition, whether it is temporary or not. By receiving a physician's help, you can find out whether your child has a problem with short term memory loss. Children and adults alike can benefit from memory boosting activities.
