Looking for a way to help your child with their studies? We’d recommend that you first take time to identify their individual learning style. This is how we learn best and there are three main types, although there are more, and we often can have a combination. Here’s some guidance from a private school in North London to help you.
The Visual Learning Style
As the name implies, this learning style categorises individuals who prefer learning through visual means. Those that fall under this category have visual strengths and are able to easily take on board what they see, e.g., through diagrams and what they read. In terms of revision methods, children with the learning style may find creating mind maps and other ways of visually laying out their notes helpful.
The Auditory Learning Style
Auditory learners learn by hearing instructions and key pieces of information said out loud. To help your child you may repeat points, adjust your tone of voice, and look for ways to play to their strengths. For example, you might create your own revision videos and podcasts for them to listen back to.
The Kinaesthetic Learning Style
This type of learner on the other hand requires tasks that are a little more stimulating and allow them to apply what they have learned. They may find practicals helpful, as well as field trips where they can go out and explore themes in real life. Although this might be a little more complicated to cater to, you can look for ways that you can “gamify” key concepts, like by creating card sorts or setting revision challenges that will keep them engaged. Additionally, breaks are important as they will help you maintain their attention.
… you maintain their attention. If this is your child’s ideal learning style, then planning more school trips abroad might significantly enrich their educational experience. Such trips offer hands-on learning opportunities that are engaging and memorable, allowing these learners to fully immerse themselves in new environments and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
Furthermore, consider incorporating activities that involve physical movement and interaction with materials, such as building models or conducting experiments. These methods not only cater to kinesthetic learners by involving them actively in the learning process but also help to consolidate their knowledge through experience and practice.
How Do I Make the Distinction
You can quite easily work out which your child has from your observations. If you’re unable to make a judgement however, we would recommend completing a VARK survey that will give you a clear and objective answer.
Other Ways That You Can Help Your Child
Once you work out which learning style your child has, you can also look for solutions that will support their learning at school. For example, if your child has either a visual or auditory learning style, it’s important that they are sat close to the front of the class so that they can see/hear clearly and take on board key pieces of information.
Leave a Reply