Which learning style best describes your child?

Different people with different personalities will tackle the same project with different strategies. No two children are the same and therefore they will not learn in the same way or at the same pace. 

In a traditional classroom setting the teacher to learner ratio is usually around 1:25. It is simply not possible for a teacher to create personalised lessons for each student. For this reason, when the teacher creates her lesson plan for a particular subject, she chooses an approach that will cater for the class average.

Understanding your child’s preferred style of learning is vital to ensure that they feel motivated in their studies. Once you understand what style of learning is best suited to your child, you can tailor their studies to fit their needs. This is what we like to call personalised learning. 

Over the last few years, more and more parents and guardians are choosing a personalised, self-paced and tailored approach to their child’s education. CambriLearn is an online learning platform that doesn’t just recognise the importance of personalised learning, they prioritise it. Every child is unique and there is no “one-size fits all” approach to education. Parents and guardians should ask themselves; is my child’s education provider harnessing and nurturing my child’s individual personality? 

Understanding your child’s learning style – the VARK system

It is important to note that no one learning style is better than another. As a parent, you might prefer to read a manual whilst your child might prefer to see instructions in a diagram format. This is totally ok! We should celebrate and strategically approach each student’s preferred learning style in order to promote optimal learning and knowledge retention. According to the VARK system, there are four types of learning styles – visual, auditory, reading/writing and kinaesthetic. 

This short fun quiz can help you better understand your child’s preferred learning style*, and the below article will explain each of these learning styles in more detail. 

Types of Learning Styles

VISUAL

Visual learners understand and remember things by sight. They retain information better when it’s presented to them in a graphic depiction, such as arrows, charts, diagrams, patterns, shapes and symbols. The best way to explain concepts to visual learners is by explaining ideas visually. For instance, when explaining a scientific process, it can be done by using a diagram. 

Visual learners are usually quite neat in their work. They often close their eyes to visualize or remember something. They tend to have difficulty with spoken directions and may be easily distracted by sounds. 

Here are a few practical examples of how to approach visual learners;

  • Have their eyesight checked on a regular basis.
  • Use flashcards to teach new concepts. 
  • Draw pictures to help explain new concepts and then explain the pictures.
  • Colour code things.
  • Avoid distractions during study times.

AUDITORY

Auditory learners prefer listening to information that is presented to them orally and they retain information better when it is heard. These learners work well in interactive group settings where open communication is present and may enjoy reading aloud to themselves. Saying things out loud helps them better understand the concept at hand. Auditory learners retain information best when it is presented to them via strategies that involve talking, such as online lectures and group discussions. They can benefit from repeating back the lessons, having recordings of the lectures, and group activities. Auditory learners may hum or talk to themselves (or others), which leads people to think that they are not paying attention, when in fact they are.  

Here are a few practical examples of how to approach auditory learners;

  • Ensure that they can hear what the teacher is saying. 
  • Have their hearing checked on a regular basis.
  • Read stories, assignments, or directions out loud.
  • Record yourself spelling words and then listen to the recording.
  • Read test questions out loud.

READING & WRITING

Reading and writing learners consume information best when it’s in words, whether that’s by writing it down or reading it. These learners succeed with written information on worksheets, presentations, and other text-heavy resources. These learners are note-takers and perform strongly when they can reference written text. These individuals usually perform very well on written assignments. To connect with a Reading and Writing learner it is best to have them describe charts and diagrams by written statements, take written quizzes on the topics, or give them written assignments.

Here are a few practical examples of how to approach reading and writing learners;

  • Encourage them to take notes during class. 
  • Equip them with books and reading materials to help them work through concepts. 
  • Encourage them to make lists. 
  • Promote activities such as essays, creative writing and writing projects.

KINAESTHETIC

Kinaesthetic learners (also known as tactile learners) enjoy hands-on, practical lessons and thrive when engaging all of their senses during coursework. They learn by touching and doing. Kinaesthetic learners tend to learn better when there is some type of physical activity is involved. They need to be active and take frequent breaks. These types of learners often use their hands when they talk and may have difficulty sitting still.

These learners are usually very in touch with their reality, which is why they require using tactile experience to understand something better. These learners tend to work well in scientific studies due to the hands-on lab component of the lessons. The best way to present new information to a kinaesthetic learner is through personal experience, practice and examples. These learners often communicate by touching and appreciate physically expressed forms of encouragement, such as a pat on the back.

Here are a few practical examples of how to approach auditory learners;

  • Encourage lessons that involve touching, building, or drawing.
  • Do lots of hands-on activities like experiments, art projects, nature walks, or role-plays. 
  • Don’t reprimand them if they tap their foot, walk around, or rock their chair while reading or studying.
  • Trace words with your finger to learn to spell.
  • Take frequent breaks during reading or studying periods (frequent, but not long).
  • Use a computer to reinforce learning through a sense of touch. 

Take our FREE Learning Style Quiz – HERE

If you are interested in finding out more about how you can personalise your child’s education then please get in touch to book a FREE, no-obligation education consultation. 

*Whilst the information in this quiz is based on research, it was created for entertainment purposes and should not be considered a formal assessment. Please book a consult with an education expert to discuss your child’s unique learning needs. 

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1 thought on “Which learning style best describes your child?”

  1. Avatar photo
    Kyla

    My child is a Kinaesthetic learner. It is true, once you seek out how your child is able to retain information, they progressive learn and thrive in their environment.

    Reply

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Here’s How Tax Relief for Neurodivergent Kids Actually Works

If you’re raising a neurodivergent child in South Africa, you’re already doing a lot.

Appointments. School meetings. Forms. “Can you just send that report again?” moments. The daily juggling act of home + school + therapy + life.

So when someone says, “You might be able to claim tax relief,” it can feel like one more admin mountain… right when you’re already running on fumes.

Here’s the good news: tax relief is available, and there’s a real framework designed to give families some breathing room.

The bad news is: it’s not always obvious how it works, and the internet is full of conflicting advice.

This guide will help you understand the basics without spiralling.

Tax relief is available in South Africa

South Africa’s tax system includes support for families who carry additional medical and care costs. The main mechanism is the Additional Medical Expenses Tax Credit (AMTC).

It’s not a cash payout. It’s a tax credit that reduces the amount of normal tax you pay.

For many families, it becomes a crucial “safety valve”, especially when you’re paying for the kind of support your child needs to function well in the real world.

Where neurodiversity fits into the SARS framework

SARS doesn’t have a neat category called “neurodivergence.”

Instead, conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and PDA are considered based on their functional impact, in other words, how much they limit day-to-day life.

For tax purposes, a “disability” is defined as a moderate to severe limitation in a person’s ability to function or perform daily activities (including learning, thinking, communicating).

If your child’s challenges create a moderate to severe limitation that is expected to last more than a year, your family may qualify for tax relief.

If the limitations are considered milder, the condition may fall under what SARS calls a “physical impairment.” (Despite the name, this category isn’t limited to physical conditions and can still apply in some neurodevelopmental contexts.) 

Relief may still be available, but often with different thresholds and limits.

The common misunderstanding that trips parents up

One of the biggest myths is:

“If I have the diagnosis, we automatically qualify.”

Not necessarily.

SARS looks at whether the condition remains a significant limitation even after what it calls “maximum correction” (including appropriate therapy, treatment, or medication).

Because every child is different, eligibility is assessed case by case. Two families can have the same diagnosis and still have different outcomes depending on how the condition impacts daily functioning.

Which is frustrating, yes.
But also: it’s why getting clarity early matters.

Why paperwork and medical confirmation matter (even if you hate admin)

The admin requirements can feel like adding weight to an already heavy load.

But they’re also the keys to unlocking tax relief.

A diagnosis label isn’t enough. You need formal medical confirmation from a registered practitioner who is trained to give an opinion on your child’s condition.

The key document is the ITR-DD form (Confirmation of Diagnosis of Disability).

Whether this form is required in your situation can depend on how your child’s needs are classified (which is exactly where many parents get stuck).

Important: you typically don’t submit the form with your annual return, but you must keep it, along with invoices and proof of payments, for at least five years. 

SARS often verifies these claims, so having your paperwork organised from the start protects you later.

Think of it like this: a few clicks to save documents today can save you hours of stress later.

You don’t have to figure it all out today

If this feels complex, you’re not meant to decode it alone in between lunchboxes and meltdowns.

So we created a simple starting point for parents:

✅ Download the tax relief cheat sheet at www.dalza.com/tax-relief-cheat-sheet/
 A clear summary of what you need to know (and what to gather), without the jargon.

Supporting a neurodivergent child requires enough time, energy, and emotional bandwidth as it is. Tax admin shouldn’t be another thing you have to white-knuckle your way through.

Start with the cheat sheet.
Get the lay of the land.
And take it one step at a time.

👉 Download the free tax relief cheat sheet at www.dalza.com/tax-relief-cheat-sheet/

Disclaimer:

This content is provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax, or financial advice. Tax outcomes depend on individual circumstances, and eligibility for tax relief is assessed by SARS on a case-by-case basis. We recommend consulting a registered tax practitioner or qualified professional before submitting any tax claims

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Supporting families facing bullying with a viable alternative 

The recent Milnerton High School incident has pushed a hard truth into the spotlight: for many children, bullying is unfortunately not a once-off event, but a daily reality. Parliamentary oversight members who visited the Milnerton school recently spoke of a “culture of bullying” in many schools across the country, and highlighted the absence of comprehensive anti-bullying policies and adequate psychosocial support – all concerns that resonate with many parents. 

At Impaq, we recognise that families should not have to choose between safety and learning. If a child’s wellbeing is at risk, home education provides a recognised pathway while keeping academic standards intact.  

“Children deserve to feel protected and confident in their learning environment in order to learn, and not have to worry about bullying or other issues they may face to be able to thrive,” says Louise Schoonwinkel, MD at Optimi Schooling, of which Impaq is a registered trademark. “This is why families explore various options, including home education and online schooling, to provide an environment that is conducive to learning.” 

What an alternative route changes practically 

A move to home or distance education changes three things at once: 

  • Environment: Learning takes place in the safety of the learner’s home. 
  • Structure: Impaq learners follow CAPS-aligned materials and planners, with moderated assessments and clear reporting
  • Support: Parents are not left to “figure it out” on their own. They partner with Impaq who provides support every step of the way. 

Social development still matters – here’s how it works 

A common misconception is that leaving a school campus means losing social growth. In practice, families curate safe social touchpoints such as community sport and arts, structured study groups, volunteering, or faith-based youth programmes. Impaq also celebrate big milestone events, and recently hosted two matric farewells for more than 600 home and online learners.  

Coping strategies 

Bullying has severe implications for your child’s mental health. If your child is struggling with anxiety issues, due to bullying, some coping strategies can help ease your child’s fears, including: 

  • drawing, painting or writing down their worries, 
  • encouraging exercise, 
  • engaging in meditation, 
  • seeking professional help, and 
  • considering alternative education options like homeschooling. 

“The aim isn’t to ‘opt out’ of education and take a child out of school immediately,” Schoonwinkel emphasises. “Rather, we advise families to choose a pathway that protects learning and dignity at the same time. When the environment improves, many families are so happy that they choose to stay and continue with homeschooling, while others choose to re-enter a mainstream school. Both are valid options – it just means that families at least feel they have options, they are not alone, and they don’t have to be stuck in a difficult situation.” 

A reassurance to families 

“If your child is in distress, you do not have to wait for an incident to occur before making the decision to home educate your child,” Schoonwinkel concludes. “Homeschooling is a credible, practical option, and for many families it has been the turning point. We see learners who chose an alternative mode of education regain stability, rebuild their confidence, and engage deeply with their work.” 

Explore alternative options to create a thriving environment for your child. Impaq’s registrations for 2026 are open – reach out to the team for more information. 

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Building Confidence, Creativity, and Community Through Music

At School of Rock, learning music isn’t about sitting still and memorising notes. It’s about movement, laughter, teamwork, and the thrill of making real music together. Our youth programs are carefully designed to meet kids where they are developmentally, while helping them grow in confidence, creativity, and independence.

Little Wing (Ages 3–5)

Little Wing is where the magic starts. This playful, high-energy program introduces our youngest musicians to music through games, movement, singing, and exploration. Kids clap, dance, play percussion, and learn the basics of rhythm and melody without even realising they’re learning. Along the way, they build coordination, listening skills, and social confidence, all while having a whole lot of fun.

Rookies (Ages 6–7)

Rookies is perfect for curious kids who are ready to try instruments but aren’t quite ready for a full band yet. Students get hands-on experience with guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals, discovering what they love while learning essential musical skills. This program boosts confidence, focus, and independence, and sets students up for success as they move into band programs.

Rock 101 (Ages 8–12)

Rock 101 is where kids become bandmates. Students combine private lessons with group rehearsals, learning real rock songs and working together as a team. They develop musical skills, stage presence, and collaboration while preparing for live performances that give them a huge confidence boost. There’s nothing quite like seeing a child light up on stage after nailing their first show.

Why Parents Love School of Rock 

Beyond the music, our programs help kids develop life skills that last. They learn teamwork, discipline, communication, and resilience. Performing builds self-esteem, creativity fuels confidence, and being part of a band creates friendships and a strong sense of belonging.

At School of Rock, kids don’t just learn music. They find their voice, their confidence, and their inner rockstar 

Whether you or your child is picking up an instrument for the first time or expanding existing skills, our performance programmes provide inspiration, fun, and confidence through music. Please pop us an email at [email protected] or Whatsapp us on 074 322 2000 for more info and to book a FREE trial.  

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