First...
Decide on a translation. If you're using a song, then use that translation (all Corner Room songs are in ESV). Or maybe you want to do the translation of your most-used Bible. Or you can read a couple different translations on Bible Gateway and see which one you like best. Make sure everyone in your family is using the same translation so that you can practice together.
After that, here are some other ideas to help you successfully memorize your psalm with your family (but no, you don't have to do them all!):
- Listen in entirety. If you have a song, you can listen to that. You could also listen to the audio version on the Bible app (most translations have an audio option). Or you could even record yourself on a voice memo app (just make sure you don't make any mistakes!). If you listen to the whole thing every day this summer, it will become very familiar to you.
- Break it up. Figure out how many verses you'll need to tackle every week in order to finish by Labor Day. Even if you're listening in entirety every day, have a smaller goal every week.
- Keep it cumulative. When you move onto the next week's verse, don't forget to review the previous weeks. One way I do this with my boys is I'll have them call their grandmas at the end of the week to recite the whole thing so far. This is a measure of accountability and also a great way to connect with their grandmas. Maybe even challenge extended family and friends to memorize with you all!
- Make it visual. Print it out and post it somewhere prominent in your home. Have a copy for the car or in your purse. Write out each verse on a different index card. Illustrate it.
- Sing (or rap) it! Try to find a song in your translation by searching in YouTube, for example, "Psalm 23 ESV song". If there's an existing one you like that fits your translation, use it! Otherwise, you can use a familiar tune or make up a simple melody. Or even putting the words to a rhythm like a simple rap can be very helpful for memory (just make sure to do a simple voice memo or video recording so you don't forget your made-up song or rap).
- Habit stack it. You don't necessarily need a separate Scripture memory time, but you can stack it onto something you're already doing. Maybe every time you start your dinner, you can listen to your psalm or recite that week's verse. Or maybe every time you get in the car together. Or when you're tucking in your kids at bedtime. Or read over it while you're brushing your teeth.
- Add motions or movement. These don't have to be official sign language motions, but moving your hands and/or your body can help engage your mind and create muscle memory.
- Talk about it! I'm not always great about this, but discuss with your kids/as a couple what the words mean. Talk about the emotions of the psalm. Talk about how psalms can often be turned into prayers. Talk about how God is speaking to you as you meditate on this psalm.
- Plan a reward! Some people think we shouldn't reward kids and should instead focus on "intrinsic motivation," but I figure if I can get the Word IN them, then it's up to the Holy Spirit to do what He wants from there. Our family often goes out for ice cream once we finish a memory project and each of our boys can individually recite it. Some may be motivated by video game time or money or a special family outing. Rewards aren't just for kids, though! If it's you and your spouse, maybe you could eat at a special restaurant or go on a unique date night out. Brainstorm together so you have something to work towards!
