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HOW DOES YOUR CHILD LEARN
BEST?
If your child has always loved to sit still and listen to
stories, chances are he or she is an AUDITORY LEARNER, who can
probably understand and remember material better if it is
verbalized. The auditory learner doesn't get impatient when the
teacher talks for long periods of time, can remember complicated
verbal directions, and enjoys listening to stories read aloud.
If your child is an auditory learner, you can help with homework
by repeating multiplication facts or spelling words aloud.
The VISUAL LEARNER, on the other hand, needs to see
something written down or illustrated in order to remember it.
The visual learner often makes pictures, charts, or
illustrations to help organize and remember material.
If you child has to touch everything in sight, take it apart
and see how it works, the chances are he or she is a
KINESTHETIC/TACTILE LEARNER, a hands-on learner who needs to
personally experience things, and not just read or hear about
them from others. This child will usually emjoy doing group work
and sharing learning with others.
Most successful learners are not restricted to a particular
learning style. They use all of their senses, often compensating
for weaknesses in some areas with stregths in others. Recognize
that you and your child may have entirely different learning
styles. If you are going to help with homework, be sensitive to
his or her unique learning style. Don't let battles over
homework divide your family.
HOW YOU CAN HELP?
Experiment with different types of study techniques to see
which ones are most effective with your child. If a child needs
to visualize ideas in order to learn them, help the child learn
to diagram and draw pictures. If the need is to experience
things is a hands-on way, try writing spelling words in sand--or
in the air. If the need is to hear spoken material, try
tape-recording textbook assignments. If a child thrives on
hands-on activities and creative projects, try to build suitable
learning opportunities into the family schedule. Buy puzzles,
games, models, and kits that make learning meaningful for that
child.
Celebrate your children's strengths. Get them involved in
hobbies and outside activities that use their learning styles,
talents, and abilities to the best advantage. Have fun learning!
Peggy Christiansen, Principal
Binkley School
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