---
title: Why some kids are so forgetful
description: Does your child or a child you know forget things all the time? Are you concerned about memory problems? Find out what causes forgetfulness in kids, and how to help.
slug: why-some-kids-are-so-forgetful
author: The Understood Team
reviewer: Elizabeth Harstad, MD, MPH
published: '2019-10-16T12:25:17.946Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/4EjthWx5QrhTpIkjo3Us4L/dafded93f400b2848f74a7473c7a754a/Enhance60_1200x900_thumbnail_UnderstoodWhysomekidsaresoforgetful.png
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/why-some-kids-are-so-forgetful
lang: en
---

# Why some kids are so forgetful

We all forget things from time to time. *What were the three things I needed to get at the store?* 

But some kids seem to forget things *all* the time, including what they were just asked to do. They might have trouble following directions and remembering lists.

This can be very frustrating — not just for the kids, but for the adults around them. Parents, caregivers, and teachers may feel like they’re constantly repeating themselves and giving reminders. And they may wonder what’s going on.

There are many reasons kids are forgetful, including stress and lack of sleep. Being hungry can also have a big impact. But sometimes when kids have trouble remembering information, they may be struggling with a skill called working memory.

---

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