As a parent or foster carer, you want to provide the best support possible for your child’s education and development. An important part of this is understanding your child’s individual learning style. Every child learns differently, so identifying how your child best absorbs and processes information can allow you to nurture their strengths. This article will explore learning styles and how you can tailor your approach to help your child thrive.
Visual Learners
Visual learners absorb information best through seeing. They tend to think in pictures, images and spatial awareness. Visual learners benefit from:
- Colourful books, posters and visual aids
- Drawing, mapping and illustrating concepts
- Videos, presentations and demonstrations
- Using highlighters, charts and graphs
- Engaging projects like dioramas and models
You can support visual learners by incorporating visual elements into teaching. Use body language, facial expressions and gestures as you speak. Provide diagrams, timelines and graphic organisers. Encourage drawing and allow doodling during classes. Display educational posters and images around the home.
Auditory Learners
Auditory learners process information well through listening. They focus on tone, pitch, rhythm and speaking patterns. Auditory learners thrive when they can:
- Have lessons read aloud to them
- Recite information out loud
- Engage in discussions and debates
- Use rhyming games and rhythmic chants
- Listen to audiobooks and educational songs
For auditory learners, incorporate rhythm, cadence and melody into teaching. Read instructions aloud. Allow them to recite key facts out loud when studying. Have them create rhymes or songs to memorise material. Use voice recordings, audiobooks and music to engage them.
Kinaesthetic Learners
Kinaesthetic or tactile learners absorb information best through hands-on experiences. They prefer direct engagement and learn by doing. Kinaesthetic learning activities include:
- Building models or handling objects
- Science experiments and interactive projects
- Drama, role play and simulation exercises
- Crafts, drawing, sculpture and other tactile arts
- Field trips, nature walks and active excursions
Kinaesthetic learners benefit when lessons involve tangible experiences. Allow them to move around and incorporate physical activities. Provide fidget toys and objects to handle. Have them build models, act out stories and participate in active games. Let them trace letters and words during reading time. Engage the sense of touch wherever possible.
Blended Approach
Most children have a blend of learning styles. While they may favour one, incorporating a mix of visual, auditory and kinaesthetic elements will cover all bases. This variety also caters to fluctuating preferences. A child may be very visual one day but respond better to hands-on activities the next. Tailoring your approach to suit their needs in the moment will create an enriching educational environment.
Observe your child during lessons and activities. Note when they seem most focused and engaged. Talk to their teachers or even your fostering agency, such as Fosterplus, about what methods work best for them in the classroom. Ask your child how they prefer to learn. Adapting your techniques to align with their learning style will allow their abilities to flourish.
Understanding and supporting your child’s learning style is invaluable for their education. Pay attention to their unique preferences and strengths. Offer multisensory learning opportunities whenever possible. Be flexible and adjust your approach day-to-day. With your guidance and encouragement, they can discover the joy of learning in their own way.