Processing Speed

Practice timed tasks and other cognitive/executive functioning skills: 

• Encourage children to do activities that challenge the brain's processing speed, such as completing puzzles, crosswords, or timed activities.

• Have them practice and strengthen executive function skills, such as working memory, organization, planning, and controlling impulses, as it can improve overall cognitive performance, including processing speed.  See more information here.

Chart progress and get feedback: 

• Chart progress with timed activities and regularly give feedback on work for areas for improvement. 

• Adjust strategies and techniques as needed. 

Teach strategies to become more efficient: 

• Teach effective strategies to complete tasks and activities more quickly. 

• Examples of strategies include chunking information and using mnemonic devices.

Use technology responsibly: 

• Some research shows that playing video games or other computer-based "brain games" can help make slow thinking a bit faster. 

• It's recommended that these games and apps be used in a targeted and intentional way (Psychology Today). Managing and balancing screen time with other enriching activities is important. For information on screen time guidelines and tips, please click here.

Exercise: 

• Regular physical activity, like brisk walking or playing sports, can improve brain function and processing speed. 

• Encourage children to aim for 30 minutes of activity most days. 

Give extra time/less work: 

• Provide extra time to process and respond to information or reduce the amount of work that needs to be done during timed tasks. 

• This might mean giving more time to complete assignments or tests, later deadlines for projects, or fewer items on tests and assignments.

Use external aids: 

• Teach and encourage use of tools like planners, calendars, reminders, checklists, outlines, and mind maps to help organize information and tasks and manage time efficiently.

Develop routines: 

• Establish consistent routines and habits for daily tasks. 

• Routines can help reduce decision-making and streamline processes.

Prioritize tasks: 

• Help children identify and prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines. 

• Have them focus on the most important tasks first. 

Break tasks into smaller steps: 

• Have children divide larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. 

• Encourage them to focus on completing one step at a time to reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Reduce distractions: 

• Help children minimize distractions when working on tasks that require focus to complete work quickly.

• Have them find a quiet space or use noise-canceling headphones, if necessary. 

Keep organized: 

• Encourage children to keep workspaces organized to reduce mental clutter and improve focus.

Advocate: 

• Encourage children to communicate with teachers and others about processing speed challenges. 

• Have them ask for help when needed and request support that is helpful.