One of the most important skills in classical Catholic education is the ability to memorize. In the Classical Liberal Arts Academy, students are asked to learn and retain Scripture passages, answers to Catechism questions, Latin Grammar rules, mathematical formulas, chronological events, and more. Developing a strong memory early on builds the foundation for lifelong learning and spiritual formation.
Over the years, I’ve taught all of our children to memorize using a method that is simple, effective, and enjoyable. It works because it respects the way children learn: through repetition, praise, and steady progress. Here is the exact method we used, and I share it with great encouragement to mothers who want to help their children succeed in their studies and grow in virtue.
Begin with One Small Piece
Start by breaking up the memory work into small, manageable parts. For example, when teaching the Baltimore Catechism answer to the question:
Q: Why did God make you? A: God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world and to be happy with Him forever in the next.
We begin with the first part: “God made me.” Say this phrase clearly and have your child repeat it over and over. Ask the question, and let them answer only that much.
Once they can answer confidently, add the next part: “to know Him.” Practice this new part on its own. Then go back and combine: “God made me to know Him.” Repeat that several times until they can say it without effort.
Add One New Phrase at a Time
Now teach the next part: “to love Him.” Practice it on its own first, then combine:
“God made me to know Him, to love Him.”
Keep building:
- Learn “and to serve Him,” then add: “God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him.”
- Learn “in this world,” then add to what they know.
- Learn “and to be happy with Him,” then add it in.
- Finish with “forever in the next.”
With each new piece, repeat the entire answer up to that point. If your child struggles, stop, go back, and reinforce the last part they knew well. Don’t move forward until they can recite what they’ve learned so far with ease.
Repeat Often and Praise Generously
Children thrive on repetition and encouragement. Be cheerful, consistent, and full of praise for their efforts. If they get stuck, say, “That’s okay! Let’s go back and try again.” A few minutes of focused repetition each day works better than long or pressured sessions.
Make It a Joyful Habit
Tie memory time to a daily routine—during Catechism time, at the beginning of Arithmetic time to review Math facts, at the beginning of Chronology study to review the timeline. Smile, speak with warmth, and keep the atmosphere peaceful. Over time, your child will begin to look forward to these lessons because they feel successful and loved.
It Really Works
This simple, steady method has worked beautifully for our children. It builds not only their memory but their confidence, attention, and love for learning. Most importantly, it helps them treasure the truths of our Faith deep in their hearts.
So begin today with one Cathechism question. Let your child say it over and over. Celebrate the small steps. You’ll be amazed at what they can do, one piece at a time.
What About Posture? Sitting, Standing, or Moving
Mothers sometimes ask whether children should stand or sit when memorizing. The truth is, children can memorize in different postures depending on what helps them most. Some children focus better when standing tall and still. Others find they remember better while sitting calmly. Still others benefit from walking slowly around the room as they recite.
It can be helpful to establish a method or routine—perhaps standing for prayer and recitation, or sitting with hands folded for Catechism work. But it is equally wise to observe what helps your child concentrate and enjoy the work. Be flexible. The goal is not to enforce a posture, but to help your child form strong and joyful habits of memory.
Encourage them to find what helps them focus best. Whether standing, sitting, or walking, let their posture serve the purpose of learning, not become a distraction from it.
Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
Homeschool Support
Classical Liberal Arts Academy
