A colourful printable poster guide sets out working memory difficulties in short, visual sections, with the main information presented on one parent-friendly page and a second page giving website, social media and copyright details.
The poster explains that working memory is the brain’s way of holding information briefly while using it, such as remembering what to do next, following instructions and keeping track of tasks. It also makes several reassuring points clear: the difficulty is not caused by parenting, is not laziness or defiance, does not affect intelligence, and is often hidden or misunderstood.
Clear examples show what working memory difficulties may look like in daily life. These include forgetting instructions soon after hearing them, completing only part of a task, losing track halfway through, asking “what?” or “what was I doing?”, struggling with several-step tasks, needing repeated reminders, seeming not to listen and taking longer to finish.
Practical support ideas are grouped into three useful areas: at home, for learning and for confidence. Suggestions include giving one instruction at a time, keeping language short and clear, breaking tasks into smaller steps, using routines, giving extra response time, asking the child to repeat instructions back, using visual reminders, writing things down, using simple checklists, praising effort and staying calm when the child forgets.
The final sections encourage adults to seek support from school or a professional if difficulties are ongoing and affecting daily life. Parents, carers, social workers, family support workers and school staff could use it as a conversation starter, a handout after a discussion, or a reminder of simple adjustments that can make tasks feel more manageable. The resource is credited to Edita Stiborova, 2026.
