The goal is not for every child to learn or respond the same way—it is to give each child a meaningful way to access the learning and show what they know.
Make the Learning Goal Clear
Help children understand what they are learning and why it matters. Use simple language, visuals, examples, and models so the goal is not hidden behind complicated directions.
Teach in More Than One Way
Present information through a combination of spoken language, visuals, demonstrations, hands-on materials, movement, stories, and technology. Children do not all take in information in the same way, so offering multiple pathways from the start can reduce barriers.
Build in Choice and Support
Give children appropriate choices in materials, topics, partners, or how they complete a task. Add supports such as visual directions, first/then boards, examples, sentence starters, manipulatives, or peer support when needed.
Offer Different Ways to Show Learning
Assessment does not always have to mean a worksheet or verbal response. Depending on the learning goal, children might point, draw, build, act it out, choose a picture, use AAC, dictate an answer, demonstrate with materials, or complete a traditional task.
Check, Adjust, and Try Again
Use observation and ongoing assessment to notice what is helping and where barriers remain. If a child understands the concept but cannot show it in the expected format, consider changing the way they access the task or respond rather than lowering the learning goal.
Additional Information
- UDL Book
Accessible Learning Spaces
A Guide to Implementing Universal Design in Early Childhood - CAST Website
Visit the CAST website on UDL at cast.org