When you think about how young children learn, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the joy of finger painting, the magic of a story read aloud, or the thrill of a building block tower reaching new heights. At Discovery Time Learning Center, we believe every child learns differently—and understanding those differences is key to helping them thrive.
If you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator of a preschool-aged child, you’re likely already aware that no two kids are exactly the same. That’s especially true when it comes to learning styles. Preschoolers absorb information in unique ways, and by recognizing and nurturing those preferences, we set the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
What Are Learning Styles?
A learning style is simply the way a person prefers to take in, process, and understand information. While some people retain details they hear, others might need to see or do something to really grasp it. In preschoolers, these preferences are just beginning to emerge—and they matter more than you might think.
The three most recognized learning styles in early childhood education are:
- Visual (Seeing)
- Auditory (Hearing)
- Kinesthetic (Doing/Touching)
Let’s break these down to understand how they show up in young learners—and how we at Discovery Time accommodate each one.
Visual Learners: The Picture Thinkers
Visual learners thrive when they can see what they’re learning. They love bright colors, patterns, charts, and visual storytelling. These are the kids who carefully observe their surroundings, recognize shapes and letters quickly, and enjoy drawing or puzzles.
How Discovery Time supports them:
- Colorful wall displays and labeled classroom items
- Picture books, storyboards, and visual schedules
- Art projects that combine colors, textures, and shapes
- Use of flashcards and guided drawing activities
Tips for Parents:
- At home, label items with both words and pictures
- Use picture books during storytime
- Encourage drawing to express thoughts and emotions
Auditory Learners: The Sound Seekers
Auditory learners absorb knowledge best through listening. They often talk or sing to themselves, repeat new words quickly, and enjoy music or rhythmic rhymes. These children can retell stories with ease and may be particularly responsive to tone and rhythm.
How Discovery Time supports them:
- Daily storytime with interactive read-alouds
- Music and movement classes that incorporate rhythm and song
- Group discussions and circle time sharing
- Repetition through chants, songs, and rhymes
Tips for Parents:
- Listen to audiobooks together
- Play educational songs in the car
- Ask open-ended questions to spark conversation
Kinesthetic Learners: The Movers and Doers
These children are all about hands-on learning. They grasp concepts by touching, building, acting out, and exploring with their whole body. Sitting still may be a challenge—not because they aren’t listening, but because their brains are wired for movement.
How Discovery Time supports them:
- Sensory play stations and outdoor exploration
- Learning through dramatic play and physical games
- Building blocks, puzzles, and manipulatives
- Movement-based storytelling and action songs
Tips for Parents:
- Include physical activities during learning (like counting while jumping)
- Provide toys that engage multiple senses
- Don’t worry if they wiggle—movement is learning!
Why Learning Styles Matter in Preschool
Understanding and embracing different learning styles isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. During the preschool years, children experience enormous cognitive, emotional, and physical development. A one-size-fits-all teaching method can leave some learners disengaged, while a tailored approach helps every child feel seen, understood, and motivated.
At Discovery Time Learning Center, we recognize that early experiences shape a child’s attitude toward learning. That’s why our educators observe each child closely, identify their learning preferences, and adapt classroom activities accordingly. Our approach encourages confidence, independence, and joyful discovery.
It’s More Than Just Playtime
Some may view daycare or preschool as a place to keep kids safe and entertained—but at Discovery Time, it’s so much more. Our curriculum is rooted in the belief that play is the work of children, and we intentionally design play-based learning experiences around visual, auditory, and kinesthetic strategies.
Whether your child is finger painting, singing with friends, or digging in the sandbox, they are developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills—all tailored to how they learn best.
Creating Connections: Teachers, Parents, and Learning Styles
We believe learning is a team effort. Our staff keeps open lines of communication with families to share insights into how your child learns and grows. Understanding your child’s learning style at school can also guide what you do at home—from choosing toys and books to creating supportive routines.
And the good news? Children are flexible. They can (and should!) experience multiple learning methods. While a child may lean heavily into one style now, encouraging exposure to all three helps develop well-rounded learners who are adaptable and resilient.
Ready to See the Difference?
At Discovery Time Learning Center, we’re passionate about helping children shine in their own unique way. Whether your child is a budding artist, a chatty storyteller, or an unstoppable explorer, we’re here to nurture their curiosity and help them grow.
We offer both full and part-time daycare programs designed to support your family’s needs while providing a warm, enriching environment where learning styles are honored every single day.
Contact us today to learn more about our programs and schedule a visit!
