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In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between dyslexia and multi-sensory learning strategies. From understanding the neurological challenges dyslexia presents, to discovering how engaging multiple senses can significantly improve reading and writing skills, we dive deep into the science of learning. We also introduce our new program,A Balanced Brain: A Multi-Sensory Program for Learning and Focus, designed to help children, teens, and adults overcome learning difficulties and unlock their full potential.
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Research:Auditory and motor rhythm awareness in adults with dyslexia
Research:Improving reading abilities in dyslexia with neurofeedback and multi-sensory learning
Dyslexia is one of the most common yet misunderstood learning differences. While often associated with reversing letters, it’s actually a brain-based condition that impacts skills like reading, writing, spelling, and phonemic awareness—the ability to recognize and manipulate sounds in words.
Research shows that multisensory learning—which engages touch, hearing, and sight—can enhance the brain-body connection, making learning more effective and enjoyable. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, this guide explores the benefits of multisensory learning and offers practical, research-backed strategies you can implement immediately.
Multisensory learning means engaging multiple senses at a time when learning a new skill. For example:
When a child spells out a word while clapping to a rhythm, they’re using their auditory (hearing), kinesthetic (movement), and visual (sight) senses simultaneously.
When children trace letters in sand, they use touch, sight, and movement.
This approach works because engaging multiple senses strengthens neural pathways in the brain. Over time, this helps kids process information more efficiently, improving skills like reading fluency, memory, and spelling accuracy.
Children with dyslexia often face timing, sequencing, and auditory rhythm challenges—key skills needed for reading and writing fluency. Research highlights how multisensory learning can help bridge these gaps:
A study published inDevelopmental Dyslexia found a strong link between auditory rhythm sensitivity and improved reading and spelling skills. Children who practiced activities like tapping to a metronome showed better timing and language development.
Another study demonstrated that combining motor activities with rhythmic exercises (like clapping or finger-tapping) helps improve language processing in children with dyslexia.
These findings show that multisensory processing is not only helpful but essential for children with dyslexia to thrive.
Here’s why multisensory learning is such a game-changer for children and adults with dyslexia:
Strengthens Brain Connections: Movement and rhythm activate different areas of the brain, reinforcing the pathways that help with language processing.
Boosts Reading And Spelling: Combining visual, auditory, and tactile input helps improve phonemic awareness (recognizing sounds in words), decoding skills, and reading fluency.
Improves Memory Retention: Hands-on activities make it easier for kids to remember and recall what they’ve learned.
Builds Confidence: Multisensory activities are often fun and engaging, reducing frustration and making kids feel more capable.
Here are some simple, effective multisensory activities you can try at home, in therapy sessions, or in the classroom.
How it works: Pour sand, salt, or shaving cream onto a tray. Have your child trace letters or words with their finger.
Why it helps: This tactile activity strengthens letter recognition, fine motor skills, and memory.
Level it up: Use a metronome and have your child trace letters to the beat, adding an auditory component.
How it works: Turn on a metronome or a steady clapping rhythm. As your child spells out words aloud, they clap or jump in time to the beat.
Why it helps: This improves rhythm, auditory processing, and spelling accuracy.
Level it up: Have your child bounce and catch a ball in time with the beat while spelling their words.
How it works: Set up a crawling path and have your child spell out a word with each step they take. You can also place visual charts along the path for extra practice.
Why it helps: Crawling activates cross-body movements, strengthens brain hemispheric connections, and improves language skills.
Level it up: Add a metronome and encourage your child to crawl to the beat while spelling or naming letters.
How it works: In the bird dog position (on hands and knees, extending one arm and the opposite leg), have your child move to the beat of a metronome while saying letters or words.
Why it helps: This activity improves motor coordination, timing, and bilateral integration, which is essential for reading fluency.
Dyslexia can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t reflect a child’s intelligence or potential. With the right support and strategies—like multisensory learning—kids can build the skills they need to succeed.
By incorporating movement, rhythm, and tactile activities into your daily routine, you’re not only making learning more engaging but also helping strengthen your child’s brain-body connection.
BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
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This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.
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