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Growie's Memory Corner (Series 6/6)

Social interaction is an important way to develop and maintain memory in young children. Here is a guide to how you can encourage your little ones to socialise and learn by interacting with others.

Interestingly, research on functions of the brain has indicated that social interaction sharpens cognitive skills, as well as boosts the production of new brain cells to help develop strong and long lasting memories.

When we recall memories from socialising, individual experiences and personal achievements, this is known as our autobiographical memory.

Children can use their autobiographical memories to recollect general features of an occasion, to interpret an event, or to recall specific details of an incident.

Through interaction, a child learns to form emotions, imitate actions, modify behaviour and even understand the feelings and intentions of others.

Additionally, social interaction is the basis for good mental health as it helps to boost self-esteem. It can also give youngsters an early lesson in stress management.

Encouraging Social Interaction

There are numerous ways social interaction can help preschoolers, but the most important of all is its ability to boost memory. Here are four ways you can encourage your child to interact with others:

Create Opportunities

Use meal times as an opportunity to interact with your child and talk about his daily activities as this will also assist him in practicing his memory skills.

Encourage Play

Organise playgroups at home so that your child can mingle with and learn from other children. This exposure is not only memorable but educational as well.

Additional Knowledge

Enrol your children in activities that they are interested in. Aside from promoting concentration and learning, these also act as opportunities for socialising and making new friends.

Initiate Social Skills

If your child is shy or refuses to interact, gently probe and ask subtle questions to find out why. His answers may give a clearer indication of the type of friends he would like to make.

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