24 of 24

Write now Article Tools

Kinesthetic Learners:

I'm told there are three main learning styles: Visual, Auditory and Tactile/Kinesthetic. Most people are visual learners and more importantly, most school teachers are visual learners. The tactile/kinesthetic learner (one who learns by doing or touching) is the smallest portion of the population. So - what happens when one has a child who is primarily a tactile learner in a primarily visual learning environment?

Well - first off - school will more than likely be difficult for a tactile child. It's hard for him to sit still and keep his hands to himself. My son is consantly drumming his hands, playing with his pencil, poking the kids next to him and other such activities. Some school teachers are good enough to understand the differences and will work with a tactile child. One teacher used to bribe my son into finishing his reading or writing activities by allowing him to clean the chalkboard, walk papers to the office or some other physical activity. However, other teachers either don't care, don't understand or don't have time to deal with it.

It's important that parents communicate with the teachers to make sure teachers recognize the behavior for what it is and not disobedience or ADHD. What is most helpful is to have a learning styles inventory taken by a doctor or educator. Make lots of copies and pass out to the teachers on the first day of school. But - it's also important to teach the child to understand himself and learn to cope with the difficulties before they surge out of control. The child needs to know he is not a loser, a failure or stupid for learning differently than other children. Hands-on classes should be encouraged.

Positive communication with the school staff and embracing the uniqueness of a tactile child will allow the child to be successful in school.

Learn more about this author, Linda J Banks.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How children learn?
We want to hear your view. Write now!