89 EF Series: What is Working Memory Part 2 -NON Verbal Working Memory

Website: 🌐 www.andiclark.comSupport Circle Membership: https://andiclark.com/work-with-me/ Intake Form: https://andiclark.com/assess-emotions/Long Form: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hZqpIgPgFXB_V8_1NGsiClJ6O2GAHb5jXdJNzSxg-yY/edit?usp=sharingIn this episode of the Kids with Big Emotions podcast, we dive into Nonverbal Working Memory—a critical but often overlooked executive functioning skill. If your child forgets where they placed items, struggles with multi-step directions, or has trouble visualizing what they need to do, this episode is for you.You’ll learn what nonverbal working memory is, why it matters, and how it impacts your child's daily routines, schoolwork, and emotional regulation. I’ll also share insights on how to identify challenges in this area and practical strategies to support your child.Key Takeaways:What is Nonverbal Working Memory? It’s the ability to hold and manipulate visual images, spatial details, and sequences in the mind.Why It Matters: Nonverbal working memory supports tasks like organizing belongings, visualizing steps, and planning actions.Signs of Struggle: Forgetting where items are, difficulty following multi-step directions, and challenges with sequencing events or spatial awareness.Impact on Learning: Nonverbal working memory is closely linked to reading comprehension, math, and even sports or dance.Support Strategies: Understanding where your child struggles helps tailor solutions like visual reminders, step-by-step guidance, and strengthening visualization skills.Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction – Common struggles linked to nonverbal working memory: losing items, forgotten steps, and frustrated routines.[00:01:00] What is Nonverbal Working Memory? – Definition and its role in holding and manipulating visual and spatial images.[00:03:00] Verbal vs. Nonverbal Working Memory – Comparing phonological sounds (verbal) to visual/spatial memory (nonverbal). Key examples to explain the difference.[00:05:00] Practical Examples: – How visualizing phrases like “the paper is in the fire” changes meaning despite identical words.[00:08:00] Why Testing Can Miss the Full Picture – How traditional assessments lump working memory into one score and why separating verbal and nonverbal components matters.[00:12:00] Real-Life Impact on Kids – From following sports plays to organizing backpacks, how weak nonverbal working memory affects daily life.[00:16:00] The Link to Higher Skills – How nonverbal working memory is foundational for planning, goal setting, and problem-solving.[00:22:00] Language Development Connection – Insights on how visual and phonological complexity impacts reading, writing, and learning disabilities like dyslexia/dysgraphia.[00:35:00] Time Horizons and Visualization – Understanding how far into the future kids of different ages can “see” and plan.[00:42:00] Transitions and Cognitive Load – Why big life changes like starting college or moving homes can temporarily weaken executive functioning.[00:48:00] Parent Support Strategies – Key questions to identify struggles and practical ways to help your child build nonverbal working memory skills.[00:51:00] What’s Next? – A preview of the final foundational skill: Inhibition (self-control).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.