A method and apparatus for enhancing a user's learning capacity includes generating a reference signal having occurrences separated by time intervals and receiving from a user a manipulation of a trigger. A temporal relationship is determined between user manipulation of the trigger and occurrence of the reference signal. A guidance signal is generated that is a function of the temporal relationship and is, at least occasionally, presented to the user. A visual image may be displayed that is varying in appearance as a function of user manipulation of the trigger. The guide signal may be withheld for user manipulations of the trigger that are within a particular range that encompasses an occurrence of the reference signal. A direction signal may be generated that indicates a desired user manipulation of the trigger relative to the reference signal. The trigger may be adapted to be manipulated by a young child user.