Identifying Children’s Learning Styles Through Play Activities

Play is a natural activity for young children and serves as the best medium to understand their learning styles. Through play, teachers and parents can observe how children receive and process information. Children who focus on colors and shapes tend to have a visual learning style, while those who enjoy listening to instructions or songs show an auditory tendency. Meanwhile, children who learn best through movement and direct experience demonstrate a kinesthetic learning style.

During play, teachers can provide various types of games such as puzzles, musical activities, and physical play. Puzzle games help visual learners recognize patterns and colors, songs and storytelling help auditory learners grasp rhythm and language, and building blocks or role-playing activities allow kinesthetic learners to learn through direct action.

Observation during play also gives valuable insights into children’s thinking patterns and interests. A child who pays attention to visual details may be more analytical, while one who enjoys talking during play shows strong communication skills. Such observations help teachers design more suitable learning strategies.

Playtime also allows children to feel comfortable and free to express themselves. When children are happy, their learning potential increases as they feel less pressure and anxiety. Learning then happens naturally and meaningfully.

Through play-based observation, teachers can not only identify children’s learning styles but also understand their character, emotions, and thinking patterns. Thus, play becomes an essential tool for recognizing and nurturing each child’s full potential.