Every single one of us, both adults and children, processes information in different ways; we call this our learning style. By identifying your son or daughter’s learning style, you will be better equipped to help them succeed in school. It will allow you to bring out their strengths and adjust your teaching methods when helping them study. You may be wondering how to spot your child’s learning style, which is why I have teamed up with a private sixth form in Hertfordshire. Here are the three main learning styles to look out for.
Visual learners
As suggested by the name, visual learners use their eyes to soak up information. When your child is completing their homework or revising for an exam, do they tend to read information from a book and then write out their notes in coloured pens and highlighters, preferring to use pictures and diagrams to represent information? If so, they are likely to fall into the “visual learner” category.
If that’s the case, your child will probably struggle to follow information and instructions when you share them verbally. Instead, try and use visual cues; point to things and have them look up information they’re struggling with in books or online.
Kinaesthetic learners
Kinaesthetic learners are better at comprehending information when it is delivered via hands-on activities. Basically, they prefer to touch and feel things whilst they are learning, which will help them remember the finer details. They might lack the ability to sit still for hours on end, so reading a book or sitting in a lecture might not spark their interest.
If your child is a kinaesthetic learner, you might notice them moving around a lot whilst listening or speaking and they may use hand gestures when they’re explaining things. They will probably be drawn to physically focussed subjects, such as Drama, Art or PE.
Auditory learners
The third and final of the three main learning styles is an auditory learner. Again, this one is pretty self-explanatory; an auditory learner will be better at absorbing information they have heard, as opposed to something they have read.
If your child is an auditory learner, you may notice them reading aloud whilst studying, and they may prefer to listen to audiobooks rather than reading. Unlike visual or kinaesthetic learners, an auditory learner is more likely to thrive in group discussions. Mealtimes are a great opportunity to chat to them about what they’re learning in school to reinforce their knowledge.
Don’t be alarmed if you think your child might fit into more than one of these categories; this is not uncommon. However, by understanding how your child absorbs information, you will be in a better position to not only help them with their schoolwork, but also give them instructions regarding rules around the home. During your next Parent’s Evening, mention your observation to your child’s teachers and see if they have come to the same conclusion.
