ALL THE WAYS WE LEARN

“What does learning look like?”

For many young students, it means quietly watching the teacher or sitting “crisscross applesauce, / hands in your lap.” But not everyone learns that way, as Ward and Apollonova gently point out. They showcase useful alternatives. Some children might need to squeeze a ball or tap their feet. If print books are inaccessible, audiobooks might be helpful. Math lessons written on a board can be more meaningful when they are paired with an abacus in the hand. The simple, concise text follows a repetitive structure, making it just right for the early learning crowd. Ward’s words—“Learning can look a lot of ways. We all learn a little differently from each other”—will reassure adult and young readers alike. Apollonova’s bright, cheery illustrations pair well with the text, depicting a diverse set of characters to echo the varied learning styles mentioned. Students vary in terms of skin tone and abilities (one uses a wheelchair; another relies on hearing aids). These details and the related learning styles will help young readers find themselves on the page. The adaptations for each student are reasonable and accessible, making for an encouraging story about differentiated learning.

Sweetly empowering.