How Working Memory and Reasoning Tasks Can Strengthen Math Skills in Children
Math is more than just numbers—it requires problem-solving, logical thinking, and memory skills. Many parents focus on teaching their children basic arithmetic, but an often-overlooked factor in math success is working memory and reasoning ability. Research shows that strengthening these cognitive skills can significantly improve a child’s ability to understand and solve math problems.
In this blog, we’ll explore how working memory and reasoning tasks play a crucial role in math learning and provide practical activities that parents can use to support their child’s development.
What Is Working Memory?
Working memory is like a mental notepad. It helps children hold and manipulate information for short periods while completing tasks. In math, working memory is essential for:
✔ Holding numbers in mind while solving multi-step problems
✔ Remembering math rules and formulas
✔ Keeping track of problem-solving steps without losing focus
Example in Math:
If a child is solving 23 + 48, they need to remember to:
- Add the ones place (3 + 8 = 11), hold onto the “1” to carry over
- Add the tens place (2 + 4 = 6), then add the carried-over “1”
- Keep the final sum (71) in mind while checking their work
A weak working memory can make this process difficult, causing children to lose track of numbers and make errors.
What Is Reasoning?
Reasoning is the ability to think logically and solve problems. In math, it helps children understand why a solution works, not just how to apply a formula. Strong reasoning skills help children:
✔ Recognise patterns and relationships in numbers
✔ Solve word problems that require logical steps
✔ Think critically about multiple ways to reach an answer
Example in Math:
If a child is asked: “There are 5 apples, and I add 3 more. How many do I have in total?”
- A child with strong reasoning will visualise the apples, understand the concept of addition, and arrive at the answer (8).
- A child who struggles with reasoning may try to memorise rules instead of understanding how numbers work together.
How Can Parents Strengthen These Skills at Home?
- Memory-Boosting Games
Playing memory games can help children improve their working memory while having fun.
🧠 Try These Activities:
- Number Recall Game: Say a series of numbers and ask your child to repeat them in reverse order (e.g., You say “5-8-2,” they say “2-8-5”).
- Card Matching Game: Use a deck of cards to play matching games where children have to remember card placements.
- Shopping List Challenge: Give your child a short shopping list (e.g., “milk, eggs, bread”) and see if they can remember it without looking.
- Puzzle and Logic Games
Reasoning tasks help children think critically and solve math problems more efficiently.
🔍 Try These Activities:
- Sudoku or Number Puzzles: These improve logical thinking and pattern recognition.
- Guess the Number: Think of a number between 1 and 50, and let your child guess while you give hints like “higher” or “lower.”
- Word Problem Challenges: Give simple math-based word problems and encourage your child to explain how they found the answer.
- Everyday Math Reasoning
Children develop math reasoning best when they see how math applies to real life.
🏡 Try These Activities:
- Cooking Together: Ask your child to measure ingredients, adjust portions, or estimate cooking times.
- Money Math: When shopping, let them calculate discounts, count change, or estimate the total bill.
- Board Games: Play games like Monopoly or Yahtzee that require number sense and strategic thinking.
The Long-Term Benefits of Strengthening These Skills
Children with strong working memory and reasoning skills not only excel in math but also improve in:
✔ Problem-Solving: They can break down complex tasks into manageable steps.
✔ Confidence in Learning: They feel more capable when faced with math challenges.
✔ Better Focus and Attention: They stay on task and follow through with multi-step problems.
By integrating these simple exercises into daily life, parents can help children strengthen their math abilities in a fun and engaging way.
Final Thoughts: Small Steps Lead to Big Improvements
Math is more than just memorising formulas—it’s about developing the mental flexibility to think critically and problem-solve. Strengthening working memory and reasoning skills at an early age sets children up for long-term success in math and beyond.
🌟 Want to try these activities with your child? Which ones do you think they’d enjoy most? Let me know in the comments! 😊
