Study Techniques Part 1 - Best Learning Techniques & Aids for Children
Like it or loathe it (and we’re definitely in the second camp!) homework is an inescapable part of our children’s lives.
If your little ones are struggling with studying, using engaging learning techniques and study aids, as well as creating a dedicated and optimised homework space, can help them to concentrate and make their learning more enjoyable for all involved.
Without further ado, here are some of our favourite study techniques and aids for children, to help them work it out!
Best Learning Techniques for Kids
1. Active Learning
Active learning involves engaging children in their learning, with activities such as hands-on projects, role-playing and group discussions. Compared to passive learning such as presentations and note-taking, active learning is more dynamic and can be more memorable for kids.
2. Gamification
Everybody loves a game! Making learning fun for your child through games, apps, or interactive activities can be a highly effective way to help them learn. You could also create competitions or use a reward system to motivate kids to reach their study goals.
3. Repetition
Repetition is an important learning technique for many people. Repetition is an important learning technique for many people (see what we did there?) Regularly reviewing the knowledge they’ve learned will help your little ones to retain the information. You could use study cards or fun techniques such as quizzes to help with this.
4. Learn their Style
Up to 93% of UK teachers believe in learning styles, with the four most common being visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic. You might find that your child leans towards one of these styles, and tailoring their learning to suit this can significantly improve their study time.
Best Learning Aids for Kids
1. Visual Aids
Visual is the most common learning style. If this is the case for your child, drawing pictures and diagrams, as well as watching videos and documentaries, might help your little one understand and process information. Visual aids can also make learning more fun (we’ll take pictures over walls of text and stuffy lectures any day!), which makes kids more willing to learn.
2. Interactive Toys
Toys are one of the best ways to get kids interested in learning (we’re not above a little trickery!) Whether we’re talking brain-teasing puzzles, crayons or chemistry kits, educational toys are a great way to encourage learning through play, problem-solving and creativity.
3. Educational Apps
Friends of the Duolingo owl will know the power an app can have in helping you to learn. Educational apps designed for kids, such as Khan Academy Kids and LetterSchool, can help make learning more fun and interactive for your little ones – download it on your phone or iPad for their supervised study time.
4. Books
No matter how much technology advances, you can’t beat a good book! From picture books and stories, to study guides and textbooks, books are timeless tools for kids’ education and will help with their reading and comprehension. Use an e-reader to access the millions of e-books available online at the touch of a button.
Best Kid's Furniture for Learning
As well as using study techniques, you can also help your child by creating a dedicated and optimised learning area. Here are our top kid’s furniture picks for a comfortable and functional study space:
Kids Beds
A good night’s sleep is essential for ensuring your little one is well-rested and ready to learn. Make sure your kid’s bed is comfortable, and choose a high-quality kid’s mattress that supports their posture as they sleep.
Desks
A dedicated desk area for your little one to study is necessary when creating a home learning environment that ‘works’ for them. An adaptable kid’s desk and one with storage and space for a computer will ensure the desk grows with your child as they get older. Check out our article on what to look for in a kid’s desk for more information.
Ergonomic Chairs
Pair your little one’s desk with a comfortable, ergonomic desk chair that supports their back and helps them maintain good posture, even during the longest homework projects – no one wants a stiff neck from studying! A chair with an adjustable height will offer you longevity.
Beds with Desks
A kid’s cabin, high sleeper or bunk bed with a desk can be an excellent solution for a smaller bedroom with no room for a separate workstation. These multi-functional furniture pieces fit a study area under the bed, making them great space savers. They also allow for separation between your child’s bed and study area, helping them to switch off from work mode at bedtime.
Storage Beds
Having sufficient storage in your little one’s room is essential for controlling clutter and creating an organised environment conducive to learning. A kid’s storage bed is an excellent way to add storage to their room and create space for books and study supplies.
Kid's Learning FAQs
Q: How can I find out my child’s learning style?
A: Watching how your little one interacts with the world can help you discover their learning style. For example, visual learners may enjoy drawing, picture books and watching movies, whilst auditory learners might favour listening to music and audiobooks, and talking with others. You can also try different learning techniques with them and see which ones they respond to best.
Q: How do I create a good study environment at home?
A: Ensure your child has a designated study area that’s quiet, organised, and free from clutter and distractions. Position their desk and chair at the correct height for comfort and add study aids to help them with their work.
Q: How important is sleep for learning?
A: Good sleep is critical for learning as it supports memory and cognitive function. Getting sufficient sleep (between 9 – 12 hours for primary school-aged children) will enable your little one to retain more information and perform at their academic best. A comfortable kid’s bed and consistent bedtime routine can help them to sleep better and longer.
Work Hard, Play Hard!
By using some of these learning aids and study techniques, alongside creating a dedicated study area with a desk or kid’s bed with a desk, you can help your little one work smarter – so playtime can come around that much quicker!
If you have any questions about our children’s furniture, please contact us at customerservice@cuckooland.com.
