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The Science Behind a Multisensory Approach


Imagine your classroom full of colorful signs, a pleasant lavender scent filling the air, and the sound of gentle music playing as the students work quietly and efficiently. This is exactly what the multisensory approach strives for. A multisensory approach is a method of learning through the use of multiple senses. For example, activities can be enhanced through using models so the students can touch and see it to better understand the teacher’s instructions. A common example of this is using oranges to teach fractions to show how you can cut a whole fruit into pieces. This lesson adds touch, taste, and smell to a task that can otherwise be rather difficult. Relating this back to Dyslexia, research has shown that a multi sensory learning approach is very effective for students with dyslexia.


According to the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), a learning environment typically uses only two senses; sight and hearing. While this might be ideal and effective for most students, one of the effects of dyslexia is having difficulties with processing visual and auditory information. On the other hand, in the multi sensory approach children with dyslexia can interact through their other senses which makes the lessons effective and fun for the students. This will also prevent dyslexic students from giving up, since they will be interacting through one of their stronger senses.


The multisensory approach is easily adaptable to classroom settings and other learning environments.

  1. To start off, increase visuals. It is advised to make the learning environment colorful; bright in the main parts of the classroom setting and different shades of green in reading areas which helps with concentration.

  2. Add music in the daily routine. Instead of teaching math through worksheets, studies show that teaching math, spelling, and grammar through songs is more effective for dyslexic students. Even just playing soothing music in the background during Silent reading time will help the student concentrate more.

  3. Scents can help bring out different feelings. According to a survey from 2002, people who work in a pleasantly smelling work area have been reported to work more efficiently. This is called aromatherapy and totally works in a classroom environment as well. Some examples are to use lavender and vanilla to promote relaxation, citrus, peppermint, and pine keeps the body alert, and cinnamon helps students to keep focus.

  4. Use visuals. While teaching, it is shown effective to give kids an object or model and ask them to write a story or background on the object. This will help develop their imagination and take a fun twist on writing.


The multisensory approach is a really important teaching style for students with learning difficulties, and has been proven to be the most effective.



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