88. What is Working Memory Part 1: Verbal Working Memory

Kids with Big Emotions Formerly Calm Nights, Strong Days

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Intake Form: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hZqpIgPgFXB_V8_1NGsiClJ6O2GAHb5jXdJNzSxg-yY/edit?usp=sharing

Does your child struggle to follow directions, remember what they were going to say, or keep track of what they’ve learned in class? These challenges might not be about focus or effort—it could be their verbal working memory.

Verbal working memory is the ability to hold and manipulate verbal information, such as sounds, words, and phrases, for short periods of time. When this foundational executive functioning skill is weak, it can impact everything from following multi-step instructions to succeeding in school and social interactions.

In this episode, Andi dives into:

• What verbal working memory is and why it’s so important for kids with big emotions.
• How verbal working memory struggles show up in daily life—at home, in school, and with friends.
• The fascinating science behind verbal working memory, including concepts like the "phonological loop" and "word chains."
• Practical strategies to identify where your child is struggling and meet them at their level.

If your child’s forgetfulness or difficulty following instructions has left you feeling frustrated or confused, this episode will give you insights and actionable steps to better support them.

Key Takeaways:

• Verbal working memory is more than just remembering—it’s about holding and processing verbal information in real time.
• Struggles with verbal working memory can lead to big emotions, feelings of failure, and frustrations at school and home.
• Small changes, like simplifying instructions or focusing on foundational skills, can make a big difference in helping kids succeed.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:02:00] - What is verbal working memory? How it’s connected to executive functioning and why it matters.
• [00:10:00] - Understanding “word chains” and how small changes in word complexity impact memory.
• [00:18:00] - Why asking your child “What’s the first sound in SAT?” might be harder than you think.
• [00:28:00] - How verbal working memory challenges affect real-life tasks like following recipes, conversations, and multi-step directions.
• [00:33:00] - Strategies to reduce cognitive load and help kids feel successful one step at a time.

Resources Mentioned:

• Support Circle Membership: Join Andi’s monthly membership for personalized frameworks and support in helping your child develop critical executive functioning skills.
• Verbal Working Memory Intake Form: Download the intake form to identify where your child is struggling and start taking action.