Flash cards can help children memorize words, math problems or concepts. Start with flash cards featuring objects that are quite different, like a ball, a truck and a doll. Show the cards to the class and then turn them over. Point at a card and ask the class what is on the other side. After they understand the game, slowly shuffle the cards around. Point to each card and ask students what is on the other side of each one. As they progress, add flash cards that pertain to units of study in math, English and other topics.
Another game you can use to stimulate memory is to cover three small boxes with different colors of construction paper. Enlist the help of three students. In one box, place one piece of chalk. In the second box, place two pieces of chalk and in the third box, place three pieces of chalk. Have the class tell you how many pieces of chalk are in each box. Have the students change places and ask the class again how many pieces of chalk are in each box. Finally, have the volunteers exchange boxes and see whether everyone can remember how many pieces are in each box. Use other objects such as toys and pieces of fruit in the boxes to keep the game interesting.
Another fun memory game for first-graders encourages the students to look quickly at objects and remember what they see. Place a variety of items on a table. The objects can include small toys, items from nature, pieces of fruit and school supplies. Make sure each student can see the table or have students take turns coming to the front of the room to view the items. After everyone has a chance to view the items, place a cloth over them. Ask students to name the items they remember. The students can randomly name items or have them write the words or draw pictures of the items on a piece of paper.
Storytelling is another way to promote memory. Read a story to the class and then ask the first-grade students questions regarding the text. At first, have students recall major plot lines and character names. Then ask students to recall details. Have the children raise their hands to answer questions and award a sticker to anyone who gets an answer correct. Another first-grade memory game is to a read a story to the children and then give them multiple choice questions about the text. Write the questions on the board and give three possible answers for the children to choose from. There are also free online memory or concentration games available for first-grade students. Though playing these games on the computer may not be practical for the classroom, parents can use these games at home to bolster memory skills in children.