How We Approach Our Learning Environment
In our Preschool, this theory helps us recognize each child’s unique strengths and abilities - what they’re naturally inclined to do.
The Multiple Intelligence Theory suggests that there are many types of intelligences, and every child may have a different combination of them. For example, some children may be more skilled in music and learn best by listening to songs and rhythms. Others may be better with words and enjoy storytelling or reading.
Here are the various intelligences the Multiple Intelligence Theory includes:
Logical-mathematical intelligence (good with numbers and problem-solving),
Linguistic intelligence (good with words and language),
Spatial intelligence (good at understanding shapes and spaces),
Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence (good with movement and physical activities),
Musical intelligence (good with music and rhythm),
Interpersonal intelligence (good at understanding and interacting with others),
Intrapersonal intelligence (good at understanding their own feelings),
Naturalistic intelligence (good at understanding nature and the environment).
In our Preschool classroom, we use the Multiple Intelligence Theory in conjunction with the Multi-Sensory Learning Philosophy. This means every child is ACTIVELY learning in a way that best suits themselves. By using a range of activities, our Preschool can help all children succeed, no matter what their strengths are. This approach encourages each child to develop their unique talents and helps me create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment.
So what’s the Multi-Sensory Learning Philosophy?
The Multi-Sensory Learning Philosophy is a teaching approach that helps young children learn through their senses. These senses include:
Sight
Hearing
Touch (not with just the hands - but with our feet, face, arms, …)
Taste
Smell
Balance
Emotions
Motor Movement (gross motor and fine motor)
Language (tone & volume)
By using these multiple senses, our children can explore new ideas and concepts in fun and engaging ways. For example, when we teach our two year old class about shapes, we encourage them to touch shapes cut from different textured materials, seeing pictures of the shapes, and hearing the names of the shapes spoken aloud in different ways, and ‘becoming’ the shape with their body. They may also create the shape using playdough or other crafty means. This approach allows children to connect what they see, hear, and feel, which helps them better understand and remember what they are learning.
This type of learning is especially important for young children because it supports their natural curiosity and need for movement. It also helps children who may struggle with traditional methods of learning by giving them alternative ways to absorb information.
By incorporating multisensory activities into the classroom, our Preschool creates a rich, stimulating learning environment that promotes a love of learning and supports the development of each child.
