Every homeschool parent has experienced it: the frustrating moment when you think to yourself, “It feels like we’re speaking two different languages. Nothing is clicking!” You may even feel like it’s your fault for not being a good teacher!
But here’s a little secret: most likely, this teacher-student conflict has nothing to do with your capability as a teacher.
What do we mean?
In homeschooling, there are two valuable players on the same team:
- Player 1: You
- Player 2: Your kids
Most likely, the learning barriers have less to do with either player and more to do with how you work together as a team. It could just be a difference in the way you and your kids grasp concepts and communicate them to one another.
That’s why the topic of learning preferences and teaching styles is so important. It helps you understand the difference between how you teach and how your children learn.
In this article, we’ll focus on Player #2—your kids—and talk about their learning preferences. We’ll dive into what learning preferences are, how to use them, and which one your kids might have.
What is a learning preference?
A learning preference is the method or environment where a child feels most comfortable and effective in learning. These preferences often emerge as tendencies toward certain modes of exploration, organization, or interaction with new information.
Here are some common learning preferences, each describing how a child might most enjoy and engage with learning:
Visual
Prefer diagrams, illustrations, charts, or color-coded notes. A child may enjoy organizing their spelling words in a colorful chart or drawing a diagram to explain a science process.
Auditory
Learn well through listening—discussions, audiobooks, or songs. Might prefer reading stories aloud or learning history through storytelling podcasts.
Kinesthetic
Grasp concepts through movement, hands-on activities, and physical engagement. A hands-on learner may benefit from using manipulatives for math or acting out historical events.
Reading/Writing
Thrive on written text, lists, or journaling. This type of learner benefits from actively engaging with written information, such as taking notes or highlighting while reading.
Why do learning preferences matter?
Understanding learning preferences matters because it helps you teach in a way that engages your child, making learning more enjoyable and effective.
By using your student’s learning preference, you can increase their:
- Motivation: Acknowledging how your child learns best makes education more enjoyable and engaging.
- Confidence: When lessons align with a child’s preferences, they’re more likely to feel capable and excited to learn.
- Growth: By knowing how a child learns best, you can adapt challenging subjects, transforming frustration into progress. For example, if your child struggles with math but enjoys physical activity, incorporating manipulatives or math games into their curriculum can bridge the gap.
Learning preferences aren’t an exact science
Learning preferences are helpful tools that you can use to understand how your children learn better; however, they are not an exact science. This is because learning preferences are flexible and can change depending on the subject or activity your child is working on. (Not to mention, they can change over time as your child grows up!).
We all need different approaches at different times.
If we label a child with just one “best” way of learning, we risk limiting their growth and opportunities to explore other methods. For example, if your child prefers hands-on experiments to understand science today, and tomorrow they want to watch a video, it’s okay to adapt!
You may also come across the term learning style when you research this topic. While often used interchangeably, we avoid using this term when talking about this topic because learning styles typically refer to a stricter way that process information, like being a “visual learner” who understands ideas best only when presented with visual information through pictures or diagrams. In contrast, a learning preference is a broader and more flexible term that acknowledges a learner’s typical patterns for learning while still allowing for growth and adaptation.
While the terms certainly overlap, learning preferences are often a better focus for homeschooling because they’re flexible and responsive to your child’s needs in the moment.
The key is to stay observant and responsive to what works, without worrying too much about fitting them into one “style.” By focusing on preferences, you keep your teaching adaptable and fun.
Encouragement for the journey
Homeschooling is not about fitting your child into a box; it’s about uncovering how they naturally shine. Recognizing your child’s learning preferences is like finding the North Star in your homeschool—it gives direction, clarity, and confidence.
In the end, the goal isn’t perfection but connection: to create a learning environment where your child feels understood, supported, and inspired. Let this knowledge guide you and enjoy the beautiful adventure of learning together!