Why is Hands-on Learning Essential for Children?
Several learning styles are used when teaching kids. Each learning style varies, and each child responds differently. The 'hands-on' approach is one learning style that has gained popularity over time and continues to prove very successful.
What is "hands-on learning"?
"Hands-on" learning essentially refers to a direct approach to teaching, where instructors allow students to learn by doing and exploring. This is as opposed to the traditional method of teaching, where students are fed theoretical knowledge by listening to their teacher and copying notes.
Examples of situations where the hands-on approach is used are:
- With playdough, building blocks, or obstacle courses
- Science experiments
- Physical problem-solving in mathematics
- Building circuits in a tech class
- Acting out, a historical event or recreating a historical artifact
The benefits of hands-on learning
Hands-on learning has had many proven benefits recorded and has become a favourite among parents and instructors. Here are a few reasons why:
- It leads to increased retention - By engaging in more than just theoretical learning, kids are able to understand better and remember what was taught.
- It’s a more engaging way to learn - Kids can sometimes get bored with traditional teaching methods because they’re not very involved in the process. Engagement often leads to excitement and a deeper interest in the subject.
- It encourages critical thinking and problem-solving - Kids have the opportunity to think beyond the surface of just the notes they have been given. They are able to delve deeper and figure out any issues on their own or amongst their peers as they work to come up with their own solutions.
- It helps to stimulate growth of both sides of the brain. The right side of the brain responds to creativity and visual stimuli. While the left side is responsible for problem-solving, sorting, and organizing.
- Hands-on learning utilizes both sides of the brain at once, which can also help your child to become a more rounded thinker.
- Experiencing things with your hands helps to improve hand-eye coordination and build spatial skills.
Why is hands-on learning so important?
Kids often struggle with understanding the ‘why’ of their education. They want to know why learning matters. If they are unable to relate or understand how what they are learning will be used in the ‘real world’ they will become less interested in learning.
While kids have access to lots of information online, this will only help to increase their knowledge, but not the actual application of that knowledge. Hands-on learning helps to build perseverance and grit, and avoids instant gratification.
The hands-on approach helps kids understand exactly how their learning is useful in the real world. It also helps them to take pride in their work and increases their confidence, since they can wholeheartedly own their work and contribute to the assignments.
How Creativ Kits helps with hands-on learning
Creativ Kits helps to spark your child’s love for learning with great hands-on subscription kits. They can explore their creativity with arts and crafts, experiment with science and engineering, and develop their interest and skills.
Help your kids get the knowledge and skills they need. Choose your kit today!