Know Your Child’s Learning Style

Does your child love reading and writing? Do they have a knack for music? When they tell a story do they tend to use their whole body to describe what happened? Are they drawn to groups or do they prefer to work alone? These traits can give a clue about your child’s learning style: the method a person uses to learn.

It’s important for parents to understand their child’s learning style so that they can help them find study methods, environments, and activities that help them learn best. In fact, while learning styles have been debunked by research, many educators continue to identify kids by the style they perceive they use for learning.

The following learning styles come from the 1960s theory of Multiple Intelligences (Howard Gardner) which states: “We are all able to know the world through language, logical-mathematical analysis, spatial representation, musical thinking, the use of the body to solve problems or to make things, an understanding of other individuals, and an understanding of ourselves.”

That may seem like “heady” stuff, but the truth is, many parents are homeschooling and many kids continue to take online classes. Whether your child is physically in school or learning at home, it is helpful to identify how they learn best for the least stressful experience.

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

Kids who are auditory learners are typically drawn to music. They may sing, play a musical instrument, or have the ability to pick individual musical 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 playback things you want to remember, or read and recite information aloud.

Verbal

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

Physical

Kids who prefer using their bodies, hands and sense of touch prefer the physical learning style. Many of these learners 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 for kids who prefer a physical learning style so they will often fidget and look forward to when they can move around. Try actually incorporating the physical objects they are learning about or allowing movement whenever possible. Writing, drawing and using flashcards can also be helpful for kids who have this learning style. Frequent breaks can help the physical leaner feel more prepared for study time. You can also try standing while reading, using a computer for studying or making review into a grossmotor style game.

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. They need not simply memorize information but truly understanding the concepts and reasons for the information to retain them long term.

Social

There are some kids who are drawn to the social learning style because they 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. They prefer to work through challenges in a group and will often be found staying after class to chat with friends. 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.

Understanding your child’s learning style is important so you can help them get the most out of their education. Don’t be surprised if your child seems a combination of learning styles as this is very common. When caring adults understand a child’s strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning, it can only improve their experience at school and their study habits at home.

Sarah Lyons is a mom of six and a freelance writer.

CCM Prep provides fun music, dance and theatre arts workshops where students of all abilities can learn from leading national artists and teachers — including CCM’s acclaimed collegiate faculty members. Students of all ages can explore their artistic interests in a welcoming environment, including experiences in musical theatre, ballet, jazz, stringed instruments and guitar.

Browse CCM Prep’s summer program offerings and find the perfect performing arts opportunity for you or for your family! Learn more at ccm.uc.edu/prep-family.

by Kimberly Blaker