THE EDUCATOR GUIDE
Adapt art activities
for every learner.
A practical guide for teachers, teaching assistants and families using the six free LearningOAR activities. Choose materials, pacing and ways to participate with the learner, drawing on the knowledge of their family and school team.
A few minutes of preparation
- Start with an interest. Offer two activities, or invite a learner to suggest their own idea. The age ranges are a browsing guide, not a measure of ability.
- Make the space comfortable. Check lighting, noise, seating and reach. Leave room for mobility equipment and a clear path to materials.
- Offer a way in. A learner can draw, point, speak, use their usual communication system, select materials or direct a partner.
- Plan materials together. Offer familiar, school-approved tools. Check allergies and sensory preferences. Follow school guidance for scissors, small pieces and supervision.
Choose what works today
These are options to try, not promises about outcomes. Use the learner’s preferences and individual support plan.
No cutting
Draw directly on the page, use pre-cut pieces prepared by an adult, or tear paper if comfortable. Point to a shape and have a partner place it.
Large drawing spaces
Use the simpler activity page, cover extra sections with plain paper or enlarge one section. Offer thicker drawing tools, a stable surface or a sloped board if these are already part of the learner’s setup.
Low mess & sensory choices
Use pencils or crayons instead of wet paint and glue. Offer paper-only texture marks. Introduce one material at a time; touching an unfamiliar texture is optional.
Choice making & communication
Offer two visible options and time to respond. Use the learner’s usual communication method. Confirm a choice before helping; don’t move their hand without consent.
Visual steps & flexible pacing
Show one step, pause, then offer the next. Use the My art plan printable worksheet to make a short sequence. A session can be a few marks, one choice or a longer project. Offer breaks and a clear finish.
Follow the learner’s lead
Describe decisions: “You chose a big circle” or “You put two lines together.” Avoid comparing work or correcting it toward a single model. Ask before displaying or sharing artwork and follow school privacy practices.
Invite an optional reflection: “What would you like me to notice?” Learners can answer through words, pointing, their communication system or choosing not to share.
Print only what you need
Choose A4 or US Letter to match the printer. Each resource starts with an educator page followed by two activity pages. Print pages 2–3 for learners, or just the page that fits today.
Use portrait orientation, single-sided printing and 100% scale on matching paper. If your printer clips an edge, choose “Fit to printable area.” The black outlines work in grayscale.
Explore the printable library →