Blog

For kids with ADHD, Autism, or executive function challenges, working memory can be especially tricky—but here’s the good news: you can improve it through everyday life, no flashcards or worksheets required. In this post, we’ll explore simple, low-pressure ways to boost working memory through daily activities, with a special focus on ADHD-friendly strategies, neurodivergent supports, and practical tips parents and teachers can use at home or in the classroom.

What Is Working Memory?

 Working memory is your brain’s ability to hold and manipulate information in the short term. It’s the mental notepad that helps kids remember what they’re doing while they’re doing it—whether it’s solving a math problem, following a recipe, or recalling instructions.

 Children with executive functioning challenges often struggle with working memory, which can lead to difficulties in focus, task completion, and organization. Common Signs of Working Memory Struggles:

 Forgetting multi-step directions Trouble recalling verbal instructions Losing track of tasks or materials Asking “what was I supposed to do again?”

Getting stuck mid-task or distracted Why Daily Activities Matter Boosting working memory doesn’t need to feel like another task on your to-do list.

In fact, real-life memory building strategies often work better than worksheets or apps because they’re: Practical Relational Repetitive Meaningful 

When kids engage in daily habits that boost working memory, they build this skill naturally—and without added pressure.

Use Daily Routines to Build Working Memory Routines that improve executive function offer predictability and repetition—two things working memory thrives on. Try This: Use a visual morning or evening routine chart Add checklists to daily responsibilities Break big tasks into 3-step mini routines (ex: put shoes on → grab backpack → go to car) This helps your child hold information in their mind long enough to complete a task, and over time, the process becomes automatic. Keyword match: building working memory through routines | executive function practice at home

2. Play Games That Build Memory in Daily Life Many traditional games are actually great working memory tasks. Try incorporating these into your week: “I Went to the Store and Bought…” (add-on memory game) Simon Says (auditory working memory) Follow the Leader (physical and memory sequencing) Card matching games Even a game of “Finish the Pattern” with Legos or colored objects helps improve memory retention. Keyword match: games that build working memory in daily life | fun ways to boost memory in children

3. Use Visual Supports Every Day Visual memory strategies reduce the mental load by allowing the brain to reference pictures or charts instead of remembering everything internally. Try This: First/Then boards (great for transitions) Picture schedules (ideal for non-readers or visual thinkers) Color-coded bins and folders for organizing schoolwork These supports are especially helpful for neurodivergent children with ADHD or Autism. Keyword match: visual strategies for working memory | adhd-friendly memory building strategies

 Use Movement to Support Memory Physical activity doesn’t just help with focus—it also improves memory. Movement activates the brain and keeps kids engaged while learning or processing information.

 Try This: Practice spelling words while bouncing a ball Use a hopscotch board to solve math facts Add body movement to routines (clap while reciting steps) Keyword match: how movement helps memory in kids | executive function help without worksheets

5. Turn Everyday Conversations Into Memory Builders Daily conversations are full of opportunities to support working memory development. Try This: Ask your child to retell part of their day Give them a short story and ask for a recap Ask for three items from the pantry without repeating These memory boosting activities for neurodivergent kids strengthen verbal working memory in a way that feels natural. Keyword match: supporting working memory through conversation | how to support working memory without pressure

.Use Chores and Real-Life Tasks Yes, chores can boost memory too! When you ask your child to complete multi-step tasks, you’re engaging their working memory. Try This: “Please get your shoes, put your lunch in your bag, and turn off the lights.” Set up a visual chore chart with 2–3 steps You’re not just building responsibility—you’re practicing home activities to strengthen memory. Keyword match: household chores that improve memory | real life ways to build working memory

 Use Repetition With a Twist Repetition helps encode memory, but varying how a task is practiced can make it even more effective. Try This: Review the same content in different ways: orally, with a drawing, then acting it out Alternate between writing and saying steps aloud This variety keeps the brain engaged and strengthens memory networks. Keyword match: working memory strategies for ADHD kids | memory building activities for special education

Add Structure to Screen Time (Or Replace It!) It’s not just about reducing screen time—it’s about making it purposeful. You can use visual organizers or checklists before and after screen time to practice executive functioning. Or better yet, replace one screen session with a screen-free game or task that promotes retention and recall. Keyword match: boost working memory without screen time | parenting tips for kids with memory struggles

. Use Tools That Support Working Memory Sometimes kids need a little extra support. These simple tools can make a big difference: Dry erase boards to keep instructions visible Timers and checklists for time awareness and task tracking Sticky notes to break up multi-step tasks These supports make the invisible—visible. Keyword match: simple tools for memory and focus | working memory and daily life skills

. Normalize Support & Celebrate Progress Kids who struggle with working memory often feel “lazy” or “bad” at school tasks. Remind them—and yourself—that these are skills to build, not flaws to fix. Try This: Celebrate when your child remembers part of a routine or follows multiple steps Say: “You remembered 2 out of 3 steps! That’s awesome!” This positive reinforcement helps kids feel more confident and increases their willingness to try again.

Final Thoughts: Small Shifts, Big Gains Working memory doesn’t improve overnight—but small, consistent shifts in how we structure daily life can make a huge difference. 

Whether you’re using visual charts, adding movement, or simply engaging in intentional conversation, you’re helping your child build the brain power they need to thrive. The best part? You don’t need anything fancy.

These simple activities to support working memory can be built into your existing routine—with zero worksheets required.

🎁 Want a Ready-to-Use Toolkit? Download our Free Executive Function Routine Builder, which includes: Visual daily routine template Multi-step instruction chart Working memory game ideas

👉 Available now at Pop Sugar Cafe!

Related Posts:

• Visual Schedules That Actually Work

• Executive Function Printables for Summer

• How to Transition from School to Summer Without Meltdowns