No two children are the same. Every child is unique and thus has different learning styles. As such, it is important for parents to identify their child’s learning styles so that they can provide them with the tools they need to become successful learners. There are a few ways in which children can learn effectively, including visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning styles.
Each type of learner has its strengths and weaknesses, and by understanding how your child learns best, you will also be able to advocate for their needs in the classroom effectively. Furthermore, you can also bridge the communication gaps between you and your child, allowing them to be more receptive to coaching and enrichment classes, especially in the lead-up to their PSLEs.
Types of learning styles
1. Visual learners
These students learn best by watching demonstrations or looking at pictures and diagrams. Children who are visual learners tend to have well-developed imaginations and often think in pictures. And since they are visual processors, too much movement or actions in a classroom may be a distraction for them. For older children who read, having written instructions present may help to clarify the verbal directions given to them.
Here are some characteristics to look for if you think your child is a visual learner:
- they show an interest in art
- they have a good sense of direction and usually can understand maps very well
- have a preference for videos over reading
Once you have identified that your child prefers visual aids when learning, here’s how you can support them:
- Advise them to colour code their study notes
- Introduce concept maps to help them study or plan projects
- Encourage them to watch documentaries or instructional videos whenever they struggle with understanding a concept or theory.
2. Auditory learners
Children who are auditory processors learn best through hearing spoken instructions, participating in discussions and talking things through. Having verbal directions to them may help clarify instructions or written information better. Too much noise may be distracting hence, children who are auditory learners need a quiet environment to understand learning materials and retain information.
Here’s what to look out for when determining if your child has an auditory learning style:
- They enjoy talking and having discussions
- They like singing along to songs and can often remember the lyrics.
- They like to read aloud and process new information by reciting it over again
- They have a knack for recognising sounds that most people do not recognise
Want to support your auditory learner? Here’s how you can:
- Use the question-answer format to help them understand and learn through concepts
- Encourage your child to ask questions and voice their understandings
- Record lectures or play them podcasts to help them better understand certain concepts
3. Kinesthetic learners
Kinesthetic learners prefer hands-on experiences and thus, they learn best through moving and doing. Children with a kinesthetic learning style learn best through physical sensations or stimulations and may have trouble sitting for prolonged periods.
Here are some characteristics of kinesthetic learners to help you identify if your child prefers this learning style:
- They have very good hand-eye coordination
- They frequently use gestures when speaking or need to move when they are learning
- They love to explore and understand how things work
If your child is a kinesthetic learner, here are some tips to help you support their learning journey:
- Encourage them to make notes or draw diagrams while learning – the hand movements can help them grasp or retain information better.
- Limit the number of visual and auditory distractions from your child’s learning environment
- For younger children, you can use props for problem-solving.
Importance of catering to different learning styles
Your child’s preferred learning style determines how their brain processes, organises, understands and retains information. It also indicates how quickly and easily your child can learn something new. Knowing your child’s learning style can help you devise learning strategies rather than forcing them to use methods they are not comfortable with.
Most teachers are typically tuned in to their students and will strive to provide differentiated instructions to meet the needs of each child. However, not many teachers and schools can prioritise every child’s learning style. Hence, when teachers and students face challenges with the learning materials, parents can step in by offering suggestions that have worked effectively at home.
Translate your child’s learning style to success:
Unlike traditional schools and tuition classes, MindChamps Enrichment offers flexible programmes with teaching customised to your child’s unique learning style. Our educators understand that not every child learns the same way hence we offer a Complimentary Learning Evaluation before your child embarks on their PSLE journey with us. Through this evaluation, we will assess your child’s needs in order to formulate an individualised learning approach.
Discover how our educators and suite of enrichment programmes in Singapore can help your child achieve better results. Book a visit to our centre to get your child started today!