Keeping Memories Alive

We've all seen it - children can do something one day, and then two weeks later, they've entirely forgotten it.

We use spaced learning to periodically revisit previous topics so that they stay remembered - and that's one reason why a small amount of work every day is better than one mammoth weekly session.

Some activities are specifically designed around building stronger memories.

Memory retention is also one reason that we do not use unrelated games as sweeteners between questions. (Another being that there's a dubious message embedded in them -ie maths is not enjoyable and needs a sweetener).

More relevantly here, studies show that memories are not absorbed so well if they are followed by tasks which either produce adrenaline, or which require concentration (especially if they're preferred) - the later tasks are remembered instead.

After learning, the best thing is down time - activities that can be done on autopilot. For an advert-perfect family this might involve a family stroll in the woods. In reality, letting them watch that movie they've seen many times is also good.