Learning Styles

Learning styles are different ways that we as individuals perceive and process information. There are three basic modalities: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Visual learners tend to learn by watching and looking at pictures; auditory learners by hearing and listening; and kinesthetic learners through moving, doing, and touching.  

Try not to assume you know your child’s learning style. Do your research. In Talkers, Watchers, and Doers, Cheri Fuller begins by helping you to identify your child's learning style (auditory, visual or kinesthetic) then moves on to helping you discover your own. Fuller's practical suggestions and creative tips will help you create a tailor-made learning environment for your child, equipping him with specialized study skills to match his unique needs. Talkers, Watchers, and Doers is a great beginner's book on learning styles.

If you want a more in-depth approach on learning styles, Cynthia Tobias’ The Way They Learn offers fascinating insight into how we learn and how we can use that information to profitably understand our children better. In The Way They Learn, you will learn the ways we perceive information, the seven intelligences and how to identify them, and the difference between learning styles and learning disabilities. If you have ever been frustrated with your child because you can't seem to communicate or if you have ever questioned the crazy way your child says he prefers to study, then this book is for you.
 
I recommend trying to incorporate all learning styles in your lessons, especially if you are teaching more than one child. If your child is learning something new or begins to struggle with a concept, teach primarily using his dominant learning style to help him grasp the concept easier.

Here are some websites that give FREE learning style tests and teaching tips:

www.chaminade.org/inspire/learnstl.htm 

www.homeworktips.about.com/od/homeworkhelp/a/visual.htm

Have Fun with the Family Game Coach

I am convinced that games are the BEST way to teach children. When children are actively involved in learning, their retention is much greater and they are excited to learn more.

My thesis in graduate school was on playing games and their effect on learning. You would not believe how much faster children learn when there is a game involved!

I used games in the classroom when I taught school, I used them when I tutored children, and now I love to play games with my own children when we homeschool or just for fun on the weekends and during summer breaks. Children are naturally drawn to games. Just test my theory and say the words, "Let's play a game!" and watch your children run to you.

If you are ready to start playing games with your family, visit www.familygamecoach.com Family Game Coach will help you instill a time of family togetherness that will promote character and enhance learning and develop strong family values. Take the home field advantage in teaching your child academics, creativity, and healthy competition by using their Game Plan. Implement a family game night using Family Game Coach’s educational games partnered with the Game Plan. You’ll be amazed at the bond it creates among family members and the increase in mental stimulation it will provide, even for mom and dad. Get ready for some family fun while creating lasting memories!

Reasons to Homeschool

   
I thought you might appreciate hearing from the heart of a homeschooled student. My son was thirteen when he wrote this, and he had been homeschooled for eight years at the time of this essay.

REASONS TO HOMESCHOOL
By Conley Chilver

    Homeschooling is extraordinary in several ways. Going to school was good for me, but I believe it is better to be educated at home. Here are some reasons why you should consider homeschooling. 

    First, homeschooling can save money and time. An average student in a school setting in the United States requires an estimated amount of ten thousand dollars or more per school year to pay for the buildings, teachers, and curriculum. On the other hand, a child can be homeschooled for an average of five hundred dollars per school year. It also takes about six hours for a student to complete his work in a school setting. For a homeschooler, it takes about three to five hours per day. 

    Second, homeschoolers have more time with their friends and family. When I went to school for one year, I had little free time. Usually a child comes home from school and has to complete homework. When I am done with my homeschool day, I have no homework. In addition, I get extra time each day since I do not have to spend time traveling to and from school. Homeschooling allows me to spend hours with my friends playing outside and more quality time with my family at night.

    Third, there’s no need to wake up early.  When I went to school, I woke up at six forty-five on school days. Now, I wake up at eight o'clock on school days. I also have a more relaxing bedtime routine, which I enjoy since I am a night person. 

    In conclusion, I believe homeschooling is better than attending school in many ways.  My favorite part of being a homeschooled child is getting to spend more time with people. Homeschooling is the way to go!