Outer Learning Conditions: How the Environment Shapes a Child’s Ability to Learn

Why Slowing Down, Adapting Tasks, and Adding Breaks Helps Children Learn Better

Author: Kristina Rautek Potocnik, BA (Hons) Ed. Rehab., HDip Early Childhood Studies, MA Early Intervention & Inclusion, Cert. Play Therapy | SI | ASD | Reflexes | ABA, ongoing MSc SLT

1 min

Jul 11, 2025

How the Environment Around a Child Can Support Better Learning and Memory

For a child to learn something new or remember what they already know, both inner and outer conditions must be right. In my last blog, I wrote about the inner conditions—if you missed it, you can check it out HERE.

Now let’s talk about the outer environment and how it affects learning. The good news is that the things we do and say around a child can actually help their brain get into the best state for learning and remembering. Let’s look at how we can create these outer optimal conditions.

1. The Right Pace for the Child

We live in a fast world. Things happen quickly, and we are used to moving fast. But when we bring this speed into our work with children, it can become a problem. If we speak too fast, ask too many questions too quickly, or change activities often, children don’t have enough time to think. This can stop the learning process.

Tips & Tricks:

When you give a child a task or ask a question, count slowly to 20 before repeating or moving on. Give their brain time to process.

2. The Right Level of Task Difficulty

Thanks to technology and social media, we have so many ready-made activities, ideas, and learning tools. These are great, but we must remember that every child is different, especially in the early years. Sometimes we give tasks that are too hard or too easy, and this can cause problems in behaviour, attention, and mood.

Tips & Tricks:

Think carefully about the level of the activity. Then watch how the child responds. If you see early signs of stress or confusion, change the activity. Make it easier or harder as needed.

3. Motivation Matters

Motivation is very important, especially when the task is difficult. Children learn best through play because play brings natural motivation. This is something we should always use. When a child is interested in what they are doing, they stay focused and happy. That’s when learning really happens.

Tips & Tricks:

Before you start working on a new skill, find out what the child loves—favourite toys, books, games, or topics. Use those interests to build learning tasks that feel like fun.

4. Enough Breaks

Rest and silence are not a waste of time. They are essential. During breaks, the brain processes what it has learned and becomes ready for more. Even quiet time where the child does what they want, with no rules, can help learning.

Also, good sleep is very important. During sleep, the brain organises memories. Children remember better if they rest after learning, instead of going straight into more activity.

Tips & Tricks:

Use a visual schedule during the day to include clear times for rest and silence.

Learning and memory are complex. They involve many brain systems and chemical processes. The way we plan our day and structure our time with a child can help or block these natural learning processes.

If you’d like to keep learning with me, feel free to join my free newsletter list (CLICK HERE) so you don’t miss future blog posts and helpful tools for learning and child development.

References:

Babic Leko, M., Bilic, B., Chudy, H., Rados, M., Simic, G., Tkalcic, M. & Vuksic, M. (2019). Uvod u neuroznanost ucenja i pamcenja. Zagreb: Ljevak.

Hausfather, S. J. (1996). Vygotsky and Schooling: Creating a Social Context for Learning. Action in Teacher Education, 18(2), 1–10.

Outer Learning Conditions: How the Environment Shapes a Child’s Ability to Learn

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