Can Doodling Sharpen Your Child’s Memory?

Did you know that doodling can be a benefit? I doodle when I’m sitting in meetings/conferences. It helps me to stay alert. There are benefits for children too according to the Journal of Applied Cognitive Psychology. The journal states that “doodling” may help
improve memory recall. Lord knows I need help with my memory at this stage of life. I don’t trust it anymore, I have to write everything down. On a bad day, I need help finding whatever list or information that I’ve written down. So pathetic I know. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen.

As a result of a study performed by Jackie Andrade, a psychology professor at the University of Plymouth in England, parents are being encouraged to promote creative doodling at home with their children by incorporating art activities into their life. Jackie is saying rather than give your child a coloring book, give them a doodle pad as well so they can doodle. I don’t consider myself to be an artist, but I do enjoy scrapbooking and creating crafts for my home. I think I can really get into some form of art with my 2 year old grandson. I tested him to see how he would do using a regular pen and pencil, he made a few scribbles. I’m going to purchase the larger crayons and pencils for him, and make it a regular activity.

Jackie’s study found that doodling can be used to help retain information. She performed a study where individuals listened to a recorded message which included pieces of information such as names and places. She found that individuals who doodled while listening, remembered 29 percent more than those who did not. I’m going to put this theory to the test. I’m going to try to teach Xavier the primary colors by using crayons and doodles.

Teachers are being discouraged from stopping students from doodling in class. In the past it was seen as a sign that the child was distracted. Now it’s seen as a sign that the brain is active and they are listening.

I’ve been checking out the Aquadoodle Travel ‘N’ Doodle Mat and I think it may be perfect for him. I’m looking for small birthday gifts for him, I’m going to add it to my birthday gift list. It’s getting good reviews by other moms, stayed tuned for my review.

Winter is heading our way, and we will be looking for indoor activities for the kids. We will be compiling a list of art/craft activities for children. We would love to have contributions from our readers too. Please leave us a comment with an activity or craft that you have done with your child. We will add it to our list and include a link to your blog.