Why does memory span improve as children get older?

Memory span improves as children get older primarily because they develop better strategies for processing and retrieving information. As children mature, they learn and refine techniques such as chunking, rehearsal, and visualization, which enhance their ability to encode and access memory more effectively. These cognitive strategies allow them to manage larger amounts of information, making it easier to remember longer sequences of items or concepts.

In contrast, while memorization may improve with age to some extent, relying solely on memorization does not account for the overall cognitive development that contributes to better memory span. Distractions can affect memory at any age, but as children grow, they generally learn to focus better, which is connected to their developing cognitive abilities rather than simply experiencing fewer distractions. The size of the brain is not a direct cause of memory span improvements, as cognitive functioning is more reliant on the connections and processes within the brain rather than its sheer size.