How Do You (and Your Child) Process Information? Why It Matters More Than You Think

Have you ever tried to help your child with homework only to end up frustrated when they don’t seem to “get it” the way you do? Or maybe you’ve sat in a meeting, overwhelmed and confused, while others nodded along like it all made perfect sense. The truth is, we all process information differently—and knowing how you or your child learns best can change everything from communication and learning to confidence and emotional regulation.

Let’s break down the most common processing styles, why they matter, and how to identify your own.

1. Verbal Processors

Verbal processors think out loud. Talking is how they untangle their thoughts, solve problems, and make decisions. If you're a verbal processor, you've probably been told, "You talk too much," or "Just get to the point,"—but you’re not being extra. You’re just working through it.

For kids: They may struggle in quiet, structured classrooms but thrive in discussion-based settings. Letting them talk things out—even if it’s messy—helps them organize their thinking.

2. Visual Processors

Visual processors need to see it to understand it. Charts, colors, mind maps, and visual aids light up their brains. They often say, “Wait, can you show me?” instead of “Can you explain that again?”

For kids: These learners benefit from diagrams, color-coded notes, and visual schedules. A visual processor may zone out during lectures but come alive with a whiteboard or picture book.

3. Auditory Processors

These folks learn best by listening. They may absorb audiobooks, podcasts, or lectures with ease but get distracted trying to read dense text.

For kids: They might sing their spelling words, benefit from oral instructions, or ask to “hear it again.” Letting them wear headphones while studying may be a strength-based accommodation—not a distraction.

4. Kinesthetic (Hands-On) Processors

Kinesthetic processors learn through movement and touch. They need to physically interact with material—build it, walk through it, or use their bodies to process it.

For kids: Sitting still is like putting a lid on their learning. Think manipulatives in math, role-playing in reading, or pacing while studying. These learners do best when movement is part of the process, not punished.

5. Logical or Sequential Processors

These learners need structure and order. They want step-by-step instructions, clear systems, and processes that make sense. Surprises or vagueness throw them off.

For kids: They may ask lots of “why” or “how” questions. They thrive with routines, checklists, and predictable expectations.

💡 Why Knowing This Matters

When you understand how you or your child processes information, everything shifts. You stop trying to “fix” what isn’t broken—and start building systems that actually work.

• Your child isn’t slow—they’re a visual learner in an auditory environment.

• You’re not scattered—you’re a verbal processor who needs space to talk it out.

• Your partner doesn’t need to “listen better”—they’re just a kinesthetic thinker who zones out if they sit still too long.

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👣 What You Can Do Next

1. Observe: Pay attention to how you and your child naturally engage with information. What lights you up? What shuts you down?

2. Validate: There’s no “better” or “right” way to process—just different. Celebrate it.

3. Adapt: Choose strategies and environments that support your style—whether that’s using colored sticky notes, walking while brainstorming, or talking into a voice memo.

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Understanding processing styles is one of the most empowering tools you can give yourself or your child. It turns learning from a battle into a breakthrough.

Need help identifying your processing style or building systems that work for your ADHD brain? I help adults and parents create personalized strategies that reduce overwhelm and boost confidence. [Let’s connect!] 👋 email me at gina@gro-mindset.com or schedule a complimentary consultation at www.gro-mindset.com. #adhdcoaching #adhdtips #adhdparenting