Task and Instructional Adaptations
Changing the expectations and requirements of learning activities and routines, or the way instruction is provided, can facilitate children’s participation in them. Examples include incorporating children’s interests in activities and routines to make them more motivating e.g., place a highly desired toy in a center a child rarely goes in. A complicated activity can be simplified by breaking it into smaller parts with visual cues e.g., a child looks at and imitates pictures of himself getting ready to go home by finding his back pack, putting on his coat, and then his hat. Integrating principles of universal design for learning is an important foundation for adapting a learning activity.
Developmentally appropriate practice for all children
All preschoolers benefit from having consistent routines and cues to know exactly what is expected of them. Mrs. Kurt takes her son, Joshua, and one of his friends to a county recreation program. Joshua was recently diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. Mrs. Kurt observes how the recreation leaders (with suggestions from a school system physical therapist who consults twice per month) successfully guide all the children through the movement activities.
Verbal directions are paired with demonstration and specific visual cues to reinforce what the children are expected to do. Mr. T., the physical therapist, uses pictures of turtles for moving slow, and pictures of rabbits to prompt faster movement. To the great delight of the children and parents, he demonstrates the movements, and then has all children and adults practice them also.
Adaptations for Joshua to complete a self-care activity independently
Mrs. Kurt decides to make some pictures cues for Joshua. She photographs her older son brushing his teeth, and posts the photos in the bathroom. The sequenced photos of his “cool” older brother help Joshua attend to the task and follow the steps of the self care routine. It also gives her older son a chance to help his brother.
Adaptations for Matthew, using laminated pictures to choose an activity.
Colorado State Dept of Education, Results Matter Video Library
Assistive technology to support task and instructional adaptations:
- Making visual supports for children with challenging behavior includes choice charts, and a “first/then” board to sequence actions.
- Routine and classroom management tools.
Allegheny County Public Schools, Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center
- Curriculum themes, material and tips for visual strategies.
- Assistive technology for preschool provides references, web-links and tips for inexpensive tools and adaptations. California State Dept of Education
