Boost Memory & Focus with a Simple “Back Drawing” Game
We all want our kids—and ourselves!—to be happy and successful. And since a big part of that comes from a healthy, active brain, it makes sense to give it a good workout. But who says brain exercises have to be boring?
I want to share a wonderfully simple game that’s been around for ages. It’s a powerful tool to strengthen memory, sharpen focus, and help both children and adults use the full power of their brains. The best part? It requires no special equipment, just your fingers and a willing participant.
Why This Simple Game Works So Well
This activity does a few amazing things at once:
- It sharpens focus. For any child (or adult) who struggles to pay attention, this game requires them to tune out distractions and concentrate on a single sensation.
- It builds a stronger memory. It actively engages visual and tactile memory, creating new neural pathways.
- It gets the whole brain working. Here’s the cool part: what you do on one side of the body is processed by the opposite side of the brain. So, drawing on the right side of someone’s back gives their left brain a workout, and vice-versa.
Let’s Play! A Step-by-Step Guide
You can think of this like a gentle, physical version of “Pictionary.”
1. Get Ready:
Have the person who is “guessing” sit comfortably and turn their back to you. The touch will be clearer this way.
2. Start Simple: Capital Letters
Using your finger, slowly and clearly draw a large capital letter on their back. An “A,” an “N,” or an “H” are great places to start. Ask them to guess the letter.
Don’t worry if they don’t get it right away. The key is repetition. Just draw the same letter again until they figure it out. It’s not a test; it’s a puzzle you’re solving together.
3. Level Up: Lowercase Letters
Once capital letters feel easy, make it a bit trickier with lowercase letters like “a,” “m,” or “g.” Their more intricate shapes provide a new challenge for the brain to decode.
4. Introduce Numbers:
Next, move on to numbers. Start with single digits (1, 2, 3), and when they’ve mastered those, try two-digit numbers like 21 or 75. This switches the brain into a different mode of thinking.
5. The Final Challenge: Syllables and Words
For a real brain-teaser, try drawing simple syllables or short words. This pushes the memory to hold onto a sequence of shapes, building serious cognitive muscle.
A Few Tips for a Great Experience
- Be patient. The goal is connection and practice, not perfection. The repetition is what builds the brain connections.
- Press firmly. Use enough pressure so the person can clearly feel the shape you’re tracing. A light tickle is hard to decipher!
- Keep it fun. Frame it as a game, not a lesson. Laughter is just as good for the brain as the exercise itself.
The Takeaway
This “back drawing” game is more than just a pastime. It’s a powerful, no-cost exercise that can sharpen focus, improve memory, and bring you and your child closer together. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the simplest tools are the most effective. So why not give it a try today? You might be surprised at how much fun you have while giving your brain a boost.
