Benefits of Multisensory Learning in Early Childhood

At Quintilian School, our commitment to child-centred education goes beyond traditional classroom approaches. With a curriculum tailored to engage the senses and nurture the children, we provide a unique environment where young learners thrive. As a co-educational, non-denominational institution in Mount Claremont, we understand that multisensory learning – where children engage through sight, sound, touch, and movement – is essential for fostering a love of learning in early childhood.

What Is Multisensory Learning?

Multisensory learning involves teaching methods that activate multiple senses simultaneously to help children absorb and retain information. For example, learning to spell might combine writing the word in sand (touch), saying it aloud (sound), and seeing it written (sight). This integrated approach aligns beautifully with the flexible, personalised education provided at Quintilian School.

Children are natural explorers. By engaging their senses, we create an environment that feels intuitive and exciting for them. Activities such as reading tactile books, singing phonics songs, or exploring numbers with physical objects allow children to make stronger connections between concepts and the real world.

Boosting Cognitive Development

Early childhood is a critical period for cognitive development, and multisensory methods have proven particularly effective. At Quintilian School, we integrate these practices into our curriculum to encourage better memory retention and problem-solving skills.

For instance:

Literacy: Children learn the alphabet by tracing letters, singing rhymes, and associating sounds with visuals.

Numeracy: Counting games involve physical objects, rhythm claps, or hopping to numbers, turning abstract concepts into tangible experiences.

These strategies make lessons more engaging, especially for children who may struggle with traditional methods. They allow every child, regardless of learning style, to build a strong foundation for their education.

Fostering Emotional and Social Growth

A multisensory approach does more than stimulate the mind; fostering emotional resilience and social connections. At Quintilian School, group activities like collaborative art projects or team games encourage children to share, express themselves, and empathise with peers.

Here’s how this works:

Children working on a sensory activity, such as a group clay project, develop patience, teamwork, and the ability to handle frustration.

Play-based learning in outdoor classrooms fosters a sense of curiosity and community while instilling respect for nature.

When children use their senses together, they build relationships, confidence, and communication skills – qualities we value deeply at Quintilian.

Supporting Physical Development

Incorporating physical activities into learning is an important aspect of multisensory education. At Quintilian School, we believe that learning doesn’t always happen while seated at a desk. Movement-based lessons are a regular feature, encouraging physical development alongside academic growth.

For example:

Gross Motor Skills: Activities like dancing or playing sports develop coordination and balance.

Fine Motor Skills: Craft-based lessons, like threading beads or painting, hone precision and control.

The school’s extensive outdoor learning spaces also allow children to explore, run, and climb while engaging their senses. These experiences not only enhance motor skills but also promote a healthy relationship with physical activity.

Building a Lifelong Love of Learning

One of the greatest benefits of multisensory learning is its ability to make education enjoyable and memorable. At Quintilian School, we craft lessons that inspire curiosity and imagination.

Whether it’s through dramatic play, hands-on science experiments, or interactive storytelling, every child has the chance to find their passion. By incorporating play into education, we encourage children to love learning.

Why Quintilian School Prioritises Multisensory Learning

We recognise that every child is unique, and by engaging their senses, we meet them where they are. This tailored approach ensures no child feels left behind, while preparing them for future learning.

Our dedication to hands-on, inclusive education creates well-rounded learners who:

Adapt easily to new challenges.

Solve problems creatively.
Work collaboratively in diverse environments.

Through this approach, we aim to empower children with skills that will serve them far beyond their school years. At Quintilian School, we know that the early years lay the foundation for a child’s lifelong educational journey. By embracing multisensory learning, we not only teach children how to learn but also how to enjoy the process.