Purpose
The Initial Instructional Design Framework established the structure, learning objectives, instructional strategies, and learner supports for the Milo Calm Lesson Prototype.
The framework serves as the blueprint for development and ensures that learning activities align with the needs of preschool learners while supporting accessibility, engagement, and inclusion.
Instructional Design Approach
The lesson was developed using principles from:
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
- Early Childhood Best Practices
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Play-Based Learning
- Instructional Technology Integration
The goal was to create a learning experience that is engaging, developmentally appropriate, and accessible to a wide range of learners.
Learning Goal
Children will recognize calm emotions and practice self-regulation strategies through interactive and sensory-friendly learning experiences.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson, children will be able to:
Objective 1
Identify calm feelings through discussion, storytelling, and visual supports.
Objective 2
Demonstrate at least one calming strategy such as deep breathing, stretching, or mindful movement.
Objective 3
Participate in a sensory-friendly activity that reinforces emotional awareness.
Objective 4
Apply calming strategies during guided learning experiences.
Lesson Structure
Introduction
Meet Milo and discuss what calm feels like.
Story Experience
Milo encounters situations that require calming strategies.
Guided Practice
Children practice breathing and movement activities with Milo.
Interactive Activity
Children participate in a digital game or coloring experience.
Reflection
Children discuss when they can use calming strategies in their own lives.
Reward Activity
Children receive positive reinforcement through a simple celebration or completion activity.
Instructional Strategies
Story-Based Learning
Milo provides a narrative structure that helps children connect emotionally with the lesson.
Guided Modeling
Milo demonstrates calming strategies before children practice independently.
Active Participation
Children interact with the lesson through movement, discussion, coloring, and games.
Visual Supports
Icons, illustrations, and visual schedules help support understanding.
Positive Reinforcement
Encouragement and celebration help build confidence and motivation.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Multiple Means of Engagement
- Storytelling
- Movement
- Interactive activities
- Character-based learning
Multiple Means of Representation
- Visual supports
- Audio narration
- Demonstrations
- Images and symbols
Multiple Means of Action and Expression
- Coloring
- Discussion
- Movement
- Digital interactions
Assessment Strategy
Assessment is embedded throughout the lesson through observation and participation.
Indicators of success include:
- Child participation
- Recognition of calm emotions
- Demonstration of calming strategies
- Engagement with activities
- Verbal responses during discussion
Technology Integration
Technology is used to support learning through:
- Interactive video
- Touchscreen activities
- Digital coloring experiences
- SMART Board implementation
- Tablet-friendly interactions
Technology serves as a tool for engagement rather than passive entertainment.
Design Decisions
Several key design decisions emerged during this phase:
- Use a friendly character guide (Milo)
- Keep activities short and interactive
- Include sensory-friendly options
- Provide opportunities for movement
- Incorporate digital and hands-on learning
- Design for classroom and home use
Framework Outcome
The completed framework provided a clear roadmap for visual design, prototype development, accessibility planning, and future testing activities.
Next Phase
Following the Initial Instructional Design Framework, the project moved into Visual Design Direction, where the character design, user experience, visual style, and interface concepts were developed.
