Stages of Learning
By Jay Grenier

In order to provide the best learning experience for the kids, it's important to understand how they learn and develop. As children's thought processes develop and they experience their world more and more, they find out how they learn best. That is, they find their learning strength and will always process information in that style because it affords them the greatest understanding. Some of the different ways children learn are:

 

  1. Linguistic- These children learn best verbally. They like to have everything fully described and are good listeners.

  2. Musical- These children learn best through music and rhythm. Music helps them to feel comfortable and the rhythm and beat can help them get excited!

  3. Intrapersonal- These children work best on their own, and enjoy being able to freely explore their options. If a challenge is presented to them, they prefer to try to figure it out by themselves, rather than with a group or with a teacher.

  4. Interpersonal- These children learn best by working with others. They are generally very social, and like to work through challenges with others. They enjoy working with teachers and peers.

  5. Logical/Mathematical- These children learn best by learning a skill with step-by-step instruction. Skills are broken down into progressions (steps) and they can practice and master each progression one at a time.

  6. Kinesthetic- These children learn best by moving through a skill and being helped physically. By physically moving their body into the correct position (spotting) and helping them through the skill, they can identify it and it helps them to learn and remember.

  7. Visual/Spatial- These children learn best through seeing the skill and having it demonstrated. If they can see someone do the skill the way it is suppose to be done, it will help them to do it better.

Each child has a style of learning that they will respond to best. At Cape Cod Gymnastics Center, our program structure is built around this philosophy, and we make sure that all learning styles are accommodated so all of the kids are comfortable, and can get the most out of their gymnastics experience. An important thing to remember is that having a different learning style, does not necessarily translate into having a learning disability. It only means that this child has developed a certain way of learning and remembering information. If the particular style they like best can be identified, then lesson plans can be adapted to that style, and the child will have an easier time learning. This is true for not only gymnastics, but also in their schoolwork and at home!