Lesson 2: Adopting a Flexible Learning Approach

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs in Primary

INTRODUCTION

Flexibility in teaching is a key part of supporting diverse learning needs in Primary. While it’s important to prepare doctrinally sound and engaging lessons, it’s equally important to adapt our approach to meet the needs of each child. When children are given agency, choice, and physical flexibility, they feel more emotionally safe, respected, and ready to engage.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of this lesson, participants will:

Understand the importance of flexibility and agency in Primary teaching.
Explore strategies that provide children with physical and emotional flexibility.
Identify practical adjustments to support engagement and participation.

HOW TO USE THIS LESSON

Personal Learning (5-10 min)

Best for individual reflection. Skim the Core Principles and review the Try This in Primary suggestions. Reflect briefly using the Ask Yourself prompt.

Training Spot (10-20 min)

Best for presidency or council meeting discussions. Read the Core Principles aloud. Then, as a group, discuss one or two questions from the Reflect and Act section.

Group Workshop (30-40 min)

Best for a full training session or deeper group learning. Read the content together, invite open discussion, and use the Reflect and Act prompts as a group to identify key needs and create an action plan for your Primary.

DOCTRINAL INSIGHT

'Agency is essential in the plan of salvation... We are happier doing things when we have made our own choices.' (Gospel Topics: Agency and Accountability)

CORE PRINCIPLES

Offer Choices

Children should be encouraged to participate, but never forced. When a child is reluctant, gently offer alternatives — like drawing instead of answering aloud, or observing instead of joining a game. Giving children choices builds trust and honours their agency.

Provide Seating Options

Not all children are comfortable in the same space. Let them choose where or how they sit — on a bean bag, chair, or rug. Some may prefer to sit near friends; others may need quiet space away from noise or touch. These small options can make a big difference.

Utilise Movement Breaks

Some children need to move in order to stay engaged. A quick stretch, movement activity, or action song can help reset focus and prevent frustration. Movement breaks don’t disrupt learning — they often make it possible.

Provide Breakout Spaces

A breakout space gives a child somewhere safe to regulate if they’re overwhelmed. This might include quiet toys, books, or fidgets. A nearby adult can check in and gently support the child in returning when they’re ready.

TRY THIS IN PRIMARY

1. Let a child choose between two seat types this Sunday.

2. Introduce a “movement moment” after singing time or a lesson segment.

3. Set up a breakout spot in the room with a small rug and calming tools.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

VIDEO: Using Flexible Seating Options in Primary

VIDEO: Using Breakout Spaces in Primary

REFLECT AND ACT

Reflection Questions

Consider the following questions:

What does it mean to be flexible in our approach to teaching and learning?
Why is it important to give children opportunities to exercise agency?
What additional flexibility strategies could we adopt?
What steps could we take this week to introduce more flexibility in Primary?

Action Steps

Consider the following action steps:

Identify any changes you feel inspired to make based on the insights you’ve gained during this lesson.
Prioritise one or two changes that could realistically be implemented in the near future.
Plan how you intend to carry out those changes this coming week.

ASK YOURSELF

What simple adjustments can I make this week to give children more flexibility in how they participate in Primary?

DOWNLOADS

Download a printable version of this lesson here: View Lesson 2