Designing learning experiences that support behavior, transitions, and engagement
Instructional design for early childhood education
Project Name
Milo Calm Lesson Prototype
Project Overview
The Milo Calm Lesson Prototype is an interactive learning experience designed to help preschool children recognize calm emotions, develop self-regulation skills, and participate in sensory-friendly activities. The lesson is part of the EQdigitalious Learning Design Community, a collaborative initiative focused on creating inclusive learning experiences through instructional design, technology integration, and educator collaboration.
Problem Statement
Many preschool children experience difficulty identifying emotions, expressing feelings appropriately, and using strategies to calm their bodies when overwhelmed. Teachers and families often need engaging, developmentally appropriate tools that support emotional learning while remaining accessible to children with diverse learning needs.
The challenge was to create a learning experience that combines emotional development, sensory support, and interactive technology in a way that is meaningful for young learners.
Project Goal
Design an engaging digital lesson that helps preschool children:
- Recognize calm emotions
- Practice simple self-regulation techniques
- Participate in sensory-friendly activities
- Develop emotional vocabulary
- Engage in interactive learning experiences
Target Audience
Primary Audience
- Preschool children ages 3–5
Secondary Audience
- Early childhood educators
- Parents and caregivers
- Special education support staff
Initial Solution
The project centers around Milo, a friendly monster character who guides children through calming strategies and emotional learning experiences.
The lesson combines:
- Interactive storytelling
- Guided breathing activities
- Movement breaks
- Sensory exploration
- Digital coloring activities
- Interactive games
- Parent support materials
Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson, children will be able to:
- Identify calm feelings.
- Demonstrate at least one calming strategy.
- Participate in a sensory-friendly activity.
- Recognize situations when calming strategies may be helpful.
Design Considerations
The lesson was designed with the following priorities:
Inclusion
Activities should be accessible to children with diverse abilities and learning needs.
Engagement
Children learn best through active participation, play, and storytelling.
Sensory Support
The lesson should provide opportunities for movement, visual supports, and calming interactions.
Technology Integration
Digital tools should enhance learning rather than replace meaningful interaction.
Deliverables Identified During Planning
- Milo Calm Lesson
- Interactive video component
- Digital coloring activity
- Interactive game prototype
- Breathing and movement activity
- Parent guidance resource
- Accessibility review checklist
Success Criteria
The project will be considered successful if children can actively participate, demonstrate a calming strategy, engage with the digital activities, and show understanding of calm emotions through play and discussion.
Next Phase
Following concept planning, the project moved into Learner Analysis to better understand the developmental, emotional, sensory, and accessibility needs of preschool learners.