There are many different ways in which children learn, none of which are ‘wrong’ or ‘right’. However, it is important to identify your child’s learning style. This may help you “speak their language” when you are helping them with their homework, or even assist you in understanding how they see and process the world.
Researchers understand learning styles to fall into the following categories. You may wish to observe your child to determine which is most applicable to them, or ask them which style they relate to most.
The Social Learner
Social or interpersonal learners are naturally drawn to group work and working with other people. Social learners are generally extroverts in nature and thrive of peer feedback. If your child is a social learner, they likely prefer to socialise after class, love group sports and activities, bounce ideas off others and listen well to the people around them.
The Solitary Learner
Solitary or intrapersonal learners prefer to learn by themselves and need quiet time to properly process information. Solitary learners spend time on self-analysis, think independently and record personal thoughts and events as a way to improve. If you observe your child requiring alone time to complete homework, it is likely that they are a solitary learner.
The Visual Learner
Visual or spatial learners find that images help them learn the best. They need to be able to see information to understand it. Their memories respond well to pictures and diagrams, and they find that drawing can cement an idea in their minds.
The Aural Learner
Aural learners, or auditory-musical learners, respond best to sound and music. This is a rare learning style, and found primarily in musicians. If your child is an aural learner, they may find that certain songs or music invoke a specific type of emotion or feeling.
The Verbal Learner
Verbal, or linguistic, learners love words. Whether written or spoken, they can easily express themselves in both. If your child is a verbal learner, they generally love to read and write, as well as tongue twisters and rhymes. Spelling tests should be an area in which they excel!
The Physical Learner
Physical or kinaesthetic learners need tactile exposure to learn. They’re generally very lively and energetic, and love to stay active. Psychical learners excel at building models or doing puzzles. If your child is a physical learner, they learn best through reciting information and speaking with their hands, as well as consistently exercising and moving.
Whilst these categories may be applicable to your child, they are not definitive. Children will often evolve their learning styles as they grow up, which is perfectly normal and healthy!
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