Childhood memory in the digital age: a new educational challenge?

At Dide.org, we are passionate about education and concerned about the comprehensive development of young children. In recent years, there has been increasing concern about memory problems in children, both in Spain and internationally. Through our early detection tool for educational difficulties, we have found that it has been the second most detected educational difficulty in the last year, surpassed only by problems with frustration tolerance.

Let’s start from the premise that human memory is a cognitive process usually classified as basic, but which, because it is mediated by language, becomes complex or superior. Memory is much more than simply remembering. It has to do with who we are, with our identity, with the actions and decisions we are going to make in the future, and with the psychological permanence of our values in the present. It is linked to practically everything we do consciously or unconsciously, from the most trivial aspects to the most elevated ones, such as principles and ethics.

It is difficult to find a superior cognitive process that has nothing to do with memory, be it learning, attention, or motivation. In a very generic way, memory is the brain’s ability to store, retain, and recall experiences and information, and we can classify it according to various criteria:

Let’s consider that human memory, although it has often been compared, is not a computer; rather, our memory is reconstructive, and its dynamic is in line with remembering by reconstructing events.

Are there reasons to be alert?

Several studies suggest that the digital age may be playing an important role. The excessive use of electronic devices, the immediacy of information, and the decrease in activities that stimulate memory, such as reading or conversation, could be negatively affecting the cognitive abilities of new generations. It may also be the case that there are difficulties with attention, concentration, language, a need to improve sleep and rest habits, as well as to assess the emotional state of the child and young person.

• “Nature Human Behavior” Study (2021)

This study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Diego, analyzed the attention span of more than 500,000 children between the ages of 8 and 13 over a period of 25 years. The results showed a 5% decrease in the attention span of children during that period.

The researchers suggest that this phenomenon could be related to the increased use of electronic devices, as these devices often present information in a rapid and fragmented manner, making it difficult for children to concentrate on a single task for an extended period of time.

• UNICEF Report (2022)

This report, entitled “The State of the World’s Children 2021”, analyzes the impact of technology on early childhood. The report warns that the excessive use of screens in children under 5 years of age can have a negative impact on brain development and cognitive skills.

The report cites a study by the World Health Organization (WHO) that found that children who spend more than 1 hour a day in front of a screen have a higher risk of attention problems, hyperactivity, and learning difficulties.

Recommendations for families

It is important to remember that each child is different and that their cognitive development follows its own pace. However, there are some general recommendations that families can follow to help minors strengthen their memory.

1. Limit screen time

• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no more than 1 hour of screen time per day for children over 2 years of age.
• It is important to establish specific schedules for the use of electronic devices and ensure that children do not use these devices before going to bed.
• There are applications and tools that can help parents control the amount of time their children spend in front of screens.

2. Encourage reading

• Reading stimulates imagination, language, and memory.
• It is recommended to read to children from an early age and choose books that are appropriate for their age and interests.
• It is important to create a quiet and welcoming environment for reading and read with children regularly.

3. Play memory games

• There are numerous traditional and online games that can help children develop their memory skills.
• Some examples of traditional memory games are Memory, Parcheesi, and Mus.
• There are also many online memory games that are educational and fun.

4. Practice activities that require attention and concentration

• Puzzles, crafts, or board games.
• These activities help children develop their ability to concentrate and pay attention.
• It is important to choose activities that are challenging, but not frustrating for the child.

5. Maintain a regular sleep routine

• Getting enough sleep is essential for the proper functioning of the brain.
• It is recommended that they sleep at least 10 hours per night.
• It is important to create a regular sleep routine that includes a fixed bedtime and wake-up time.

6. Follow a healthy and balanced diet:

• Nutrition plays a fundamental role in cognitive development.
• It is important to promote a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.
• Excessive consumption of refined sugars and saturated fats should be avoided.

7. Create a positive learning environment:

• Motivate children and celebrate their achievements.
• It is important to create a positive learning environment in which children feel comfortable.

We encourage you to listen to our Doctor of Psychology, Nuria Ros, on La Tarde con Marina to expand the information on the subject. At Dide.org, we are experts in detecting educational, emotional, and behavioral potentials and difficulties early in order to intervene. You can access the diagnostic tool in this link.