Understanding Your Child's Learning Style

What Are Learning Styles?

Learning styles refer to the most effective way a person takes in, understands, and remembers information. While every child is different, most tend to lean toward one or more of the following common learning styles:

Visual: this type of learner absorbs information best through images, diagrams, colors, and spatial understanding.

Auditory: auditory learners have the easiest time when they hear information through lectures, discussions, music, or other language-based methods.

Kinesthetic: kinesthetic learners soak of information through hands-on experiences, movement, and physical activities.

Reading/writing: reading/writing-based prefer using words, whether reading or writing, to process info

It’s important to note that these styles don't mean that each child fits perfectly into one box. Often, kids will benefit most from a mixed approach. However, tailoring to their dominant styles can make a huge difference, impacting information retention and even their experience in school.

Why It Matters

Learning becomes more engaging and less frustrating when children are taught in ways that align with their natural tendencies. For example, a kinesthetic learner who struggles with math worksheets may do significantly better if given physical objects to count or solve problems. On the other hand, a visual learner might grasp science concepts better through charts and videos than through solely verbal explanation.

Understanding a child’s learning style helps parents . . .

• Advocate more effectively at school

• Create a supportive homework environment

• Encourage confidence and self-awareness

• Reduce academic stress and improve outcomes

Identifying Your Child’s Learning Style

Identifying your child’s learning style can be difficult, but there are a few ways you can try to make a judgment. Start by observing how your child tackles new tasks. Do they draw pictures to explain things, talk through their ideas out loud, build with their hands, or act things out?

You can also ask your child how they prefer to learn, or try offering different study methods to see which they respond to best. There are even simple learning style quizzes you can do at home! For example, here's one from Education Planner: https://www.educationplanner.org/students/self-assessments/learning-styles

Final Thoughts

At The Bloom Project, we believe that recognizing and respecting each child’s learning style is crucial to their educational development. When children feel seen and understood in how they learn, they’re more likely to stay curious, resilient, and confident in the classroom.