Teaching kids how to read can be tough, especially for those who struggle early on. While children develop at their own pace, implementing specific classroom strategies can effectively prepare them all for future challenges, like learning to read. Exciting advancements in reading curriculum highlight multisensory learning as one of the most effective methods for teaching children to read.
Multisensory learning is rooted in the whole brain teaching approach, which emphasizes engaging multiple senses to activate different brain regions for deeper learning. Imagine incorporating pictures while reading aloud – this simple multisensory activity can significantly boost children's literacy skills
In this article, we will explore multisensory learning, how it can be used in classroom settings, and how it impacts development.
What is Multisensory learning?
To truly understand why multisensory learning is such a powerful tool for student engagement is, we need to peek inside the human brain. It turns out, our brains are wired to learn best in a multisensory world. The "whole brain learning theory" suggests that all brain functions are interconnected, and that's why we best remember things when instructions engage multiple senses.
So, what exactly is multisensory learning? It's harnessing this neuroscience to design lessons that stimulate two or more senses. While adding audio or visuals is common, research says that multisensory learning can also incorporate touch, smell, and even taste.
Everything we learn comes through our senses – they're the gateways to our brains. Here are the key pathways for children:
- Auditory: Hearing sounds and instructions.
- Visual: Seeing pictures, charts, and demonstrations.
- Tactile: Touching objects and manipulating materials.
- Kinesthetic: Learning through movement and body awareness.
Imagine students forming letters from clay while learning the alphabet or exploring new vocabulary with tasty Easter eggs. By connecting sensory experiences to the subject matter, we create a more inclusive learning environment that reaches all students, regardless of their dominant learning style.
How to use Multisensory learning in a classroom?
When introducing new concepts, make the kids use their senses with engaging activities. Teach vocabulary words by having students sculpt the letters from clay while saying the sounds out loud. Learning about the solar system? Let them create a 3D model with planets made from different textures (cotton balls for clouds, bumpy dough for Mars).
Learning doesn't have to be confined to textbooks. Integrate songs, rhymes, and movement into your lessons. They're not just fun – they're powerful tools for memory retention, especially for auditory learners.
Remember, all learners are unique. Cater to visual learners by incorporating pictures, charts, and graphic organizers into your lessons. Kinesthetic learners will do good with hands-on activities, manipulatives, and movement breaks. Don't be afraid to get creative and mix things up!
Benefits of multisensory learning in early literacy
Cognitive development
Multisensory learning promotes cognitive development, which is how children think, learn, and work through situations and problems. Activities like finger painting, water tables, and sensory bins can play a helpful role in encouraging cognitive development, building problem-solving skills, fostering creativity, and encouraging learning through exploration.
Improves motor skills
Multisensory activities not only spark curiosity and hands-on learning but they also play a crucial role in developing children's motor skills. From practicing hand-eye coordination for skills like catching, writing or engaging in activities that improve gross motor skills, these multisensory experiences help children retain information better by connecting physical movement with learning.
Significant language development
Multisensory learning provides a significant boost to language and literacy development. When children participate in activities that involve multiple senses, their brains form stronger connections, leading to better retention of information. This approach is particularly beneficial in expanding children's vocabularies, allowing them to express themselves more effectively and articulate their thoughts and emotions. Additionally, encouraging language development through descriptive language helps children improve their ability to express themselves verbally. This skill not only aids in emotional regulation and processing but also fosters effective communication.
Better social-emotional growth
Social and emotional growth holds immense importance, and multisensory learning plays a role in nurturing this aspect as well. Through activities that involve collaboration in small groups or pairs, children learn to cooperate and interact while engaging their visual, auditory, and kinesthetic abilities. Cultivating positive relationships with peers and adults within the classroom setting contributes to a child's understanding and management of emotions, as well as their exploration of problem-solving skills.
How does multisensory learning help with reading skills?
Reading and language development are cornerstones of early education. Thankfully, multisensory learning offers a powerful way to boost children's success in these crucial areas. Research shows that incorporating various sensory elements and techniques into reading lessons leads to stronger memory retention. Children are more likely to remember information they learn through sight, sound, touch, and movement
Early education is all about making learning fun and engaging. Multisensory strategies are a fantastic way to do just that! These activities go beyond traditional worksheets and textbooks, incorporating a variety of senses to create a more impactful learning experience.
Imagine little hands getting messy with fingerpaint, sand, or shaving cream – not just for fun, but to write and explore letters! Or picture the joy of learning new words through catchy songs and group activities. These are just some examples of how multisensory learning can transform your reading lessons.
Get Your Multisensory Material
Developed with input from educators and rigorously tested by real kids, The Fidget Game products have helped countless children around the world grasp new concepts and solidify their knowledge. The Fidget Game is a fun, multisensory supplement to traditional learning, packed with engaging activities and clear instructions. We prioritize both fun and function, ensuring these fidget games not only keep little hands busy but also actively target different learning pathways in young minds. So, while the smiles on your child's face are priceless, know that The Fidget Game is there to support you, the parent or teacher, in fostering a love of learning that lasts!
Explore our multisensory Product Categories:
For learning the Alphabet: ABC Bingo, ABC card pack, Unicorns vs. Dragons
For Reading improvement: The reading game, The Fidget Game: Sight Words, Word Pop!
Learn SIGHTS WORDS: The fidget game-Sight word edition
For learning CVC words: Word pop, sneaky elves
Learn to recognize shapes and colors: Colors and 2d/3d shapes card pack
Learn to Tell Time: Telling Time card pack
Learn Math Skills: Numbers and counting card pack, addition and subtraction
Build vocabulary knowledge: The vocabulary game
References:
Shams, L., and Seitz, A.R. Benefits of multisensory learning. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 60, November 2008, pp. 411-17.
Başar, E. The theory of the whole-brain-work. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 60, March 2006, pp. 133-38
