Cogmed: A Simple Guide for Parents

What is Cogmed? 

Cogmed is a training program designed to improve kids’ working memory and attention. Working memory is like a mental workspace where we temporarily hold and use information, such as following instructions, expressing ourselves, learning or solving problems. Cogmed helps strengthen this workspace through engaging, computer-based exercises. Children do daily sessions over several weeks, with the exercises adjusting in difficulty as they improve. This helps them get better at focusing and remembering and manipulating important details involved in learning.

How Does It Work?

-Interactive Exercises: Your child will do fun, computer-based exercises that are like brain games. These exercises help them practice holding and manipulating information.

– Daily Practice: They’ll do these exercises for about 30-50 minutes a day, usually for several weeks. The exercises get a bit harder as your child gets better.

-Personalized Coaching: While engaging in the program, a certified Cogmed provider will work closely with the client and caregiver to analyze, teach and support/coach to maximize the benefit of the program, mediating their experience in the program beyond just working memory capacity but introducing concepts and strategies that encompass the other aspects in executive function skills.

Who Can Benefit?

– Kids with Learning Challenges: Cogmed can be especially helpful for kids who have trouble focusing, remembering things, and/or following instructions. It’s often used for children with ADHD or learning difficulties.

– Kids with Social Behavioural Challenges: Cogmed can be part of the solution for kids who are highly impulsive, inattentive and have issues in the social behavioural context.

– All Ages: While it’s most commonly used for kids, it can also help teenagers and adults.

Why Try Cogmed?

– Improves Focus and Memory: By practicing with Cogmed, kids can get better at paying attention and remembering important information.

– Supportive Tool: It’s a tool that works alongside other help your child might be getting, like school support or therapy.

What to Expect?

– Commitment: There will be a regular schedule to follow, and your child will need to stick with it for a few weeks.

– Progress: Many kids see improvements in their ability to focus, remember details, and manage tasks better.

In summary, Cogmed is a home based, therapist facilitated program designed to help kids build better memory and attention skills through interactive and adaptive brain training exercises. It’s a useful tool for supporting your child’s learning and development.

For more information visit Cogmed