Multisensory learning is a straightforward approach to implement in everyday homeschooling. It involves using all the senses to create a more engaging and effective learning experience.
Think about your own workspace—do you have highlighters, notecards, or a preferred writing tool? Do you prefer a standing desk, or do you need to stretch regularly? Do you work better with music in the background or in silence? Each person has unique preferences that help them focus, and the same principle applies to children.
As adults, we use these important strategies to organize our thoughts and tasks to effectively function and it is the same for children! That is why it's so it’s important to teach children these skills early on to prepare them for the present and future learning and work environments.
Visual Strategies
To make learning more accessible and enjoyable, focus on visual strategies. Using graphic organizers, color-coding, and visual aids can help break down complex information. Teaching children these skills at a young age will benefit them in the long run, whether they're making a shopping list, taking notes, or managing a complex project in the future. These tools help clarify information and make it easier to remember.
Auditory Strategies
Auditory learning involves engaging the sense of hearing. This can be achieved by reading aloud to your children, listening to audiobooks, and discussing what they've learned. Listening to an audiobook while following along with a pointer or their finger can be especially helpful for students who struggle with reading. It improves comprehension and helps them build vocabulary.
Kinesthetic Strategies
Kinesthetic learning is all about movement and hands-on activities. This can be done through science experiments, dance, or games that involve physical activity. Kinesthetic strategies are not limited to science and physical education; you can incorporate them into math and literacy by creating interactive games or acting out stories. When children are engaged and having fun, they're more likely to retain information and be enthusiastic about learning.
Taste & Smell Strategies
Taste and smell can also be part of multisensory learning. You can use these senses in science experiments, cooking, and baking. Creating recipes that tie into a story or historical lesson can make the learning experience more memorable. You can also take field trips to places that offer unique sensory experiences, like a botanical garden or a cultural restaurant.
Sensory Regulation Strategies
Sensory regulation is crucial for students who struggle with attention and behavior. Using smelly erasers, fidget tools, or having a small stuffed animal nearby can help them stay calm and focused. Movement breaks, sitting on the floor instead of at a desk, and incorporating regular physical activity can enhance sensory regulation and improve attention spans.
By integrating these multisensory strategies into your homeschooling routine, you create a more dynamic and effective learning environment. Click here for the full parent guide filled with more multisensory learning strategies, graphics organizers, activities and more!
Remember, each child has unique needs, so feel free to experiment with different approaches to find what works best for your family!!
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