What’s Your Child’s Learning Style?

Understanding your child’s learning style is important so you can help them get the most out of their education while identifying how to handle challenges that may occur because of their preferred style. Don’t be surprised if your child uses a combination of learning styles.

Visual

Visual learners prefer seeing pictures and images to learn new things. They usually have good spatial awareness skills. Kids with this learning style understand maps and have a good sense of direction. They usually love doodling and drawing. Study habits best for these learners are to write information down, underline or highlight as they read, use colorful diagrams, charts and pictures to enable them to visualize what they want to remember.

Auditory

People who are auditory learners are typically drawn to music. They may sing, play an instrument or have the ability to pick individual instruments out of a piece of music. They may hum, sing or tap their feet while they work. Using music and rhythm to remember information can be helpful for kids who have this learning style. It might also be helpful to record and play back things you want to remember, or read and recite information aloud.

Verbal

Kids with a verbal learning style can easily express themselves in both speaking and written communication. Verbal learners have a strong understanding of the meaning of words and will consistently seek out new words to master. Try using acronyms or reading information aloud while learning new things. Role playing can also be helpful for the verbal learning style.

Logical

Kids with a logical learning style generally excel in math and critical thinking. They can recognize patterns and commonalities in seemingly unrelated content. They often understand and work complex calculations in their head. Problems are usually tackled in a systematic way and they enjoy creating lists, agendas, charts and procedures. Kids with this learning style will retain information if they understand the logic behind it, rather than simply memorizing it.

Physical

Kids who prefer using their bodies, hands and sense of touch are physical learners. Many enjoy drama, dancing, woodworking or exercise. They would rather go for a run or walk when something is bothering them than sit at home and think it through. These kids use hand gestures and body language to communicate and are very aware of the world around them. Sitting and listening to a lecture can be a challenge. Try actually incorporating the physical objects they are learning about or allowing movement whenever possible. Writing, drawing, flashcards and frequent breaks can also be helpful. Try standing while reading, using a computer for studying or making review into a gross-motor style game.

Social

People who are drawn to the social learning style love working in groups or participating in classes. They enjoy sharing their ideas with others and listening to what others think. Kids with this learning style are good at both verbal and nonverbal communication and understand others as well. People typically like being around the social learner and seek their advice or input when faced with problems. Kids with this learning style will enjoy role playing, studying in groups or sharing what they have learned with others.

Solitary

People with a solitary learning style often prefer working alone and enjoy thinking and reflecting on things. They tend to be independent, introspective, and private. They are good at focusing on a task and have strong concentration skills. They may also enjoy keeping a journal to reflect on personal thoughts and feelings. Kids with this learning style prefer to study alone in quiet spaces.