Would he rather listen to someone else tell him the directions? He may be an auditory learner who learns best by listening.

Or, does he want to start putting the toy together without any instructions? Then he may be a kinesthetic learner who learns best by moving his body—arms, legs, fingers, etc.

Children learn in all three ways. But, by understanding learning styles, parents can help make study time more effective.

In her book Quantum Learning: Unleashing the Genius in You, Bobbie DePorter offers tips on recognizing learning styles:

Visual learners:

• Are good spellers and can actually see words in their minds.

• Are strong, fast readers.

• Would rather read than be read to.

• Like art more than music.

Auditory learners:

• May talk to themselves.

• Are easily distracted by noise.

• Find writing difficult and are better at telling.

• Can spell better out loud than in writing.

• Like music more than art.

Kinesthetic learners:

• Speak slowly.

• Often touch people to get their attention.

• Stand close when talking to someone.

• Use a finger when reading.

• Like to act things out.

• Learn by manipulating and doing.

Copyright © Parent Institute