The 7 Learning Styles: Understanding How Your Homeschooler Learns Best

1. Visual Learners

Visual learners are often referred to as “spatial learners” because they best understand and retain information through visual aids. These learners may benefit from diagrams, charts, videos, and other visual representations of concepts. If your child is a visual learner, try incorporating visual tools into your lessons, such as:

• Color-coded notes
• Infographics
• Educational videos
• Mind maps

Tip: Create flashcards or use picture books to reinforce key concepts. Visual learners also excel when they can visualise a concept in their minds, so drawing out ideas or using visualisations can make learning more effective.

2. Auditory Learners

Auditory learners process information best through listening. They thrive in environments where verbal instructions are provided, and may have a strong memory for spoken words. To support auditory learners:

• Read aloud during lessons
• Encourage them to repeat information back to you
• Use songs or rhymes to make learning more memorable

Tip: Consider using audio books or podcasts on relevant topics to help auditory learners absorb information during walks or quiet time.

3. Kinesthetic Learners

Kinesthetic learners are hands-on and learn best through physical movement and direct engagement. These learners often struggle with sitting still for long periods and prefer activities that involve building, creating, or experimenting. If your child is a kinesthetic learner, try:

• Incorporating physical activities like building models or conducting science experiments
• Using role-playing or dramatisation
• Taking frequent breaks for physical movement

Tip: Get creative with activities that combine learning with movement, like acting out a history lesson or doing math using blocks.

4. Reading/Writing Learners

This learning style is focused on written words and often includes a preference for reading and writing as a means of processing information. Reading/writing learners may enjoy writing essays, making lists, or taking notes. You can support them by:

• Encouraging independent reading and journaling
• Using written assignments to deepen understanding
• Providing opportunities for research and reading comprehension exercises

Tip: Encourage your homeschooler to write summaries of lessons or create study guides to enhance retention.

5. Logical/Mathematical Learners

Logical learners excel at reasoning, problem-solving, and working with numbers. They thrive when they are given problems to solve or concepts to analyse in a logical way. If your child is a logical learner:

• Use puzzles, games, or problem-solving activities
• Encourage them to analyse patterns and relationships between concepts
• Integrate math, science, and reasoning exercises into their routine

Tip: Provide opportunities for critical thinking through activities like logic puzzles, coding, or building structures that require planning and math.

6. Interpersonal Learners

Interpersonal learners are social and thrive in collaborative environments. These learners benefit from group discussions, teamwork, and the exchange of ideas. To support interpersonal learners:
● Organise group projects or cooperative learning activities

● Allow for peer-to-peer teaching or collaboration

● Engage in discussions and debates to encourage critical thinking

Tip: Set up virtual or in-person study groups where your homeschooler can share ideas and learn with others.

7. Intrapersonal Learners

Intrapersonal learners are introspective and thrive when given time for independent thought and self-reflection. They often have a strong sense of their own strengths and weaknesses, and they work best when they can set their own goals and monitor their progress. If your homeschooler is an intrapersonal learner:

• Provide opportunities for self-paced learning and reflection
• Encourage journaling, goal-setting, and self-assessment
• Give them time to work independently without constant supervision

Tip: Help your child create a personalised study schedule that aligns with their goals, allowing them to work at their own pace.

Conclusion

Each child is unique, and understanding their learning style is one of the most powerful tools you can have as a homeschool educator. By tailoring your teaching strategies to match your child’s learning preferences, you can create a more engaging and productive environment that fosters a love for learning. Whether your homeschooler is a visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or any other type of learner, recognising and adapting to their needs will help them succeed.

Remember, learning is not one-size-fits-all, and the beauty of homeschooling is that you have the flexibility to customise the learning experience for your child’s success!