What is multisensory teaching?

By APTTI Educational Content · Updated 5 October 2026 · 2 min read

What this means in practice

Linking several senses gives the brain more routes to a memory. It also makes practice active and engaging, which helps children who find sitting and listening difficult.

Examples

• Sky writing letters with the whole arm.
• Using magnetic letters to build words.
• Tapping out syllables or sounds.
• Counting with beads or blocks in maths.
• Acting out story sequences.

Using it well

Keep the activity linked to a clear learning goal and practise until the skill is secure. Multisensory activities support, but do not replace, systematic teaching.

Multisensory maths

In maths, multisensory teaching might include counting with beads, building numbers with blocks, using number lines on the floor, drawing diagrams and talking through steps aloud. These help children connect symbols with quantities and procedures.

Multisensory methods also help children who are learning in a second language, because pictures, objects and actions make meaning clearer than words alone.

Practical next steps

1. Choose one skill to target.
2. Add a visual and a movement element.
3. Practise briefly and often.
4. Check whether the child can then do it without the support.

What to keep in mind

Avoid claims that matching teaching to learning styles improves results; the benefit comes from varied, active practice.

Common follow-up questions

Is multisensory teaching only for dyslexia?

No. It helps many young learners and children with other learning needs.

Is it suitable for older students?

Yes, with age-appropriate activities such as diagrams, models and discussion.

Sources

• International Dyslexia Association
• IRIS Center, Vanderbilt University: special education modules

Sources inform the explanation; examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.