Processing Speed is the fluency and speed with which one can incorporate all types of information. It is believed to be age-related and the increased processing speed that occurs with development has been linked to improvements in attention and working memory, which are then associated to increases in reasoning and problem solving abilities. Imagine reading a textbook by having to sound out each word. Not only would it take a long time to read, this slow reading style usually also means poor comprehension. On the other hand, good readers use phonics skills automatically, leaving cognitive resources leftover to understand what they are reading. It works similarly with math. Students can easily become overwhelmed by a math word problem if they have difficulty with the math facts involved within the problem. Once the math facts become automatic, they have more cognitive resources leftover to take in more aspects of the problem.
At home, simple reading and math facts should be practiced until they become more automatic. Parents could challenge children to respond faster, without sacrificing accuracy, using timed performance. Children could do repeated timed readings of passages to develop fluency. They should practice time drills with their math facts. Their progress can be charted so that children see their improvements in words read per minute or digits correct per minute. With automaticity comes easier cognitive processing and greater achievement.
To learn more about how to support your child’s academic achievement at home, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bell at 843-810-9202.