Learn!

Are your kids having trouble with their grades? Most parents facing that issue are careful to explore all the typical reasons, like study habits and the negative influence of friends. But one crucial area usually gets overlooked: the child’s learning style.

When author Cynthia Tobias was a kid, she struggled with traditional classroom-type education. Unlike her younger sister, who was a compliant and serious student, Cynthia was determined to do things her own way. Fortunately, her father was wise enough to make the most of his daughter’s learning style. Like the time she came to him and said, “Dad, I want to speak Spanish.” He said, “That’s a good idea. Why don’t you go learn?” So, that’s exactly what she did!

With her dad’s support and encouragement, Cynthia often learned new things in a manner that fit her independent learning style. What’s more, when she grew up and became a teacher, that freedom helped her see that her students could be more successful when their education fit their particular learning style.

Some kids can sit still and listen to their teacher, while others need room to move around and interact with the material. Some kids struggle with numbers but easily understand words and sentences. Other students find math and grammar a chore but are gifted at art or music.

If your child is struggling in school, discover his or her learning style and harness it. You just might fan into a flame a lifelong love of learning.