Every child learns differently, and understanding their unique learning style is key to helping them succeed academically. If your child is struggling with studying, it may not be about their effort, it may just be about how they’re studying.
Traditional methods, like reading a textbook and taking notes, may work well for some students but not for others. Some children learn best by seeing information visually, while others need to hear it or even engage with it physically.
The good news?
Once you identify your child’s learning preferences, you can tailor study strategies to fit their needs!
This guide breaks down different learning styles and offers actionable, research-backed strategies to help your child study more effectively.
Understanding Different Learning Styles
One of the most widely recognized models for learning preferences is the VARK Model, which categorizes learners into four types:
- Visual Learners: Understand best through images, charts, and spatial organization.
- Auditory Learners: Absorb information better when hearing and discussing concepts.
- Reading/Writing Learners: Learn effectively through written words, lists, and written explanations.
- Kinesthetic Learners: Retain information best through movement and hands-on activities.
Some children may have a dominant learning style, while others benefit from a multisensory approach that blends different methods.
For children with learning differences (such as ADHD or dyslexia), adapting study strategies is even more important.
Wondering how to create study techniques that cater to your child’s strengths? We’ve got you covered!
Study Strategies for Different Learning Styles
1. Visual Learners
Visual learners process information best when they can see it in an organized way. Reading long passages of text might be overwhelming, but using graphics, colors, and spatial arrangements can make learning easier.
Strategies for Visual Learners:
- Color-code notes: Use different colors for key ideas, formulas, or vocabulary words.
- Mind maps & diagrams: Create charts or flowcharts to visualize relationships between concepts.
- Use visual learning tools: Videos, infographics, and flashcards with images can reinforce learning.
- Highlight & underline: Encourage using highlighters to mark key points in textbooks and notes.
For example: If your child is studying history, they can create a timeline with images instead of just memorizing dates.
2. Auditory Learners
Auditory learners process information best by hearing it. They benefit from lectures, discussions, and verbal repetition.
Strategies for Auditory Learners:
- Read aloud: Have your child read their notes or textbook sections out loud.
- Record & replay: Let them record themselves summarizing lessons and replay the audio.
- Use music or rhymes: Turn information into a song or a catchy phrase to aid memory.
- Encourage discussion: Study groups, tutoring sessions, or even teaching the material to someone else can reinforce learning.
For example: If your child is struggling with vocabulary words, they can create a rhyming song using the words instead of just reading definitions.
3. Kinesthetic Learners
Kinesthetic learners retain information better when they physically engage with it. Sitting still for long periods can be difficult, so adding movement while learning is key.
Strategies for Kinesthetic Learners:
- Use hands-on activities: Science experiments, math manipulatives, or building models can make abstract concepts more concrete.
- Move while studying: Encourage pacing while reviewing notes or bouncing a ball while answering flashcards.
- Act it out: Role-playing historical events or acting out a story can enhance understanding.
- Frequent breaks: Implement short, active breaks between study sessions to keep focus high.
For example: If your child is studying geometry, let them use physical objects like string or paper cutouts to visualize angles and shapes.
Adapting Study Strategies for Special Learning Needs
Neurodiverse Learners (ADHD, Dyslexia, etc.)
Children with ADHD or dyslexia often need customized study strategies to help them focus and retain information.
For ADHD:
- Break study sessions into short chunks (Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes of focus, 5-minute break).
- Use fidget tools or allow movement while studying.
- Create structured routines with clear expectations.
For Dyslexia:
- Use audiobooks and text-to-speech apps to supplement reading.
- Increase font size & spacing for easier readability.
- Encourage oral discussion of concepts rather than written summaries.
Discover how our personalized 1:1 ADHD tutoring has helped numerous families and students achieve success!
Multisensory Learning Approach
Many students benefit from combining multiple learning styles. Mixing visual, auditory, and kinesthetic techniques can reinforce learning and improve retention.
Try this blended approach:
- Watch an educational video (visual)
- Discuss key takeaways with a parent or peer (auditory)
- Take notes or draw a diagram while listening (kinesthetic & reading/writing)
Final Thoughts
Every child is unique, and the way they learn best may not be the way they’re currently studying. By identifying your child’s learning style and using tailored strategies, you can boost their confidence, improve their comprehension, and make studying less stressful.
Help your child unlock their full potential by finding study strategies that match their unique learning style. Whether they learn best through visuals, listening, or hands-on activities, the right approach can boost confidence and make studying more effective (and even enjoyable)!
Need extra support? Our expert 1:1 study skills tutoring provides personalized strategies tailored to your child’s learning needs. Contact us today to get started!
