Listen and learn! Children with an auditory learning style understand and retain information best when it’s presented through sound. That means verbal instructions, songs, discussions, and storytelling are powerful tools for these learners. If your child is constantly talking, loves music, or prefers listening over reading, they might be an auditory learner.
Auditory learners thrive in environments where they can hear the information they’re absorbing. They benefit from hearing instructions out loud, repeating back information, talking through problems, and participating in group discussions.
There are three primary types of learners: auditory, visual, and kinesthetic. Auditory learners tend to retain and absorb information more effectively when it is presented through verbal instructions, sound, and verbal speech instead of visual aids or hands-on activities. Auditory learners tend to:
Understanding your child’s learning style can help you tailor your support strategies. Keep reading for effective strategies for auditory learners and fun activities for auditory learners to try at home!
If your child is an auditory learner, try these auditory learning strategies to support their comprehension and confidence:
These fun, practical activities can help strengthen your child’s auditory learning skills while keeping them motivated and engaged.
Make story time come alive! Use different voices, add sound effects, and ask your child to repeat phrases or predict what happens next. Books with repeated lines, like Pete the Cat or Brown Bear, Brown Bear, are perfect for this. This can make listening more fun and helps your child to remember the story better.
Music is a great learning tool and you can incorporate educational songs and rhymes into their learning routine. You can use songs about the alphabet, numbers, or daily routines that can make learning more enjoyable and memorable.
Reading books aloud to your child often can help them develop better listening skills and improve their vocabulary. You can choose books that have repetitive phrases (“Pete the Cat” is a great option!) and encourage your child to join in.
Playing games that require your child to listen carefully can help to improve their ability to follow directions and pay attention to details. Some game ideas include “I Spy” or “Simon Says.”
Incorporating the use of audiobooks and recordings or stories/education content can help to enhance your child’s comprehension and keep them engaged with the content. These are especially great during quiet time or car rides!
By using strategies for auditory learners that emphasize listening, discussion, and verbal repetition, you’re tapping into how your child’s brain naturally learns. These approaches support better comprehension, retention, and enjoyment of learning. Every child learns differently, and understanding your child’s auditory learning style can make a big difference in how you support their development.
Kestra Thompson, M.A., SLP, is a pediatric speech-language pathologist at NAPA Center Denver. She specializes in early language development, AAC, and speech sound disorders. Kestra is passionate about helping children find their voice and supporting families on their communication journey.
NAPA Center is a world-renowned pediatric therapy clinic, offering pediatric speech therapy in traditional or intensive settings. If you believe your child may benefit from expressive or receptive language interventions, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customized program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. With multiple clinic locations worldwide, NAPA is committed to helping children lead their happiest, healthiest lives. Contact us today to discover how NAPA can help your child.
