Children learning games: a multisensory approach

Educators are understanding more about how children learn and adapting multisensory approaches in the classroom. It's an effective way to help all children learn, but especially those with sensory issues or learning difficulties. Beyondtheblackboard.com takes great pride in carrying an assortment of children learning games designed to stimulate all of the senses.

Children, especially young ones, experience their world through all of their senses. Speech and language can be taught not just with visual and audible cues, but also through touch, by allowing the child to feel their mouth shaping the words. Letters can be taught through visual means, but the concept can be cemented by adding touch to the mix. Tracing raised letters (Textured Touch Trace cards) imprints the visual cue on another one of the senses, thus another area of the brain.

Some children have sensory issues where they may have very weak processing in one area, and supersensitive in another. Simply trying to teach a topic, therefore, using one sense could leave these children behind and frustrated. Classroom games for children are a good way to implement different senses and allow every child the opportunity to learn.

Another benefit of having classroom games is the increased social interaction and cooperation. Game where the kids have defined roles and responsibilities allows the introverts to be a part of the action. Try partnering up some of the kids who do not normally hang out together to see if they can find some common ground. Or divide the class into two teams for some friendly competition. Classroom games for children can help to conquer social fears, provide a unique learning experience, and a motivating environment.

Teachers should try to send home newsletters detailing the fun classroom games you are playing and what skill it is working on. Give suggestions for how they can be adapted for the home, or even set up loaner library. Getting family and caregivers on the same page as the educator provides a double whammy for children learning. Games can be the line of communication between a child and parent about what they are learning at school. They can also illustrate vividly where the child needs help, so the parent can step in and take an active role in teaching.