Description: Kinesthetic learners remember what was done, not what was seen or talked about; may have had or are having difficulty learning to read; touch and movement are very important; are not avid readers; attack things physically; learn by imitation and practice; touch things to get a sense of them; like to talk about feelings; may be athletic, like swimming, cooking, running, eating, sailing, dancing, working out, massages; may appear slow if information is not presented in his style; are poor spellers; love games; are impulsive; don’t hear things well; like to dress comfortably; may unconsciously touch people a lot.
Hints for Kinesthetic Learners:
Hold book in your hand while reading (instead of laying it on a table)
Write while you are talking or reading
Use a computer to reinforce learning by using the sense of touch
Record class lectures, listen to them while walking or exercising
Use hands-on experiences when possible
Use gestures when giving explanations
Make models that demonstrate the main concept
Stand up when giving explanations
Write with your fingers in sand, salt, etc.
Write lists repeatedly
Use rhythm (beats) to memorize or explain information
Use role playing with a study partner
Associate feelings with information
Make flashcards for each step in a procedure, put the cards in order until the sequence is automatic
Adjustments – what can be done to help the kinesthetic learner?
Provide a quiet period after physical activities
Alternate quiet periods and rest periods
Avoid putting him/her too close to other children
Provide cues for end of study time – timer or clock
Encourage visits for drinks/bathroom before class
Make it harder to move than to sit still – e.g. desk against the wall
Use pictures to help establish associations – words, meanings, numbers
Attach verbal labels
Use visual, auditory and kinesthetic methods for teaching writing
Allow for planned times for movement, such as monitor jobs
Teaching Methods – how to plan to help the kinesthetic learner
Use movement exploration
Have children clap or tap out numbers, syllables, walk patterns of words
Use sandpaper letters/felt letters, write in sand/clay, use 3-D materials
Child may need to talk to self for motor feedback
Use all manipulatives possible
Products for Visual Learners
Charades
Demonstrations
Dioramas
Displays
Dramatizations
Experiments
Games
Learning centers
Mobiles
Models
Relief maps