A mobile application designed to enable parents in supporting children with potential learning difficulties, through the use of gamification, clear learning progression and multiple support tools Stepping Stones gently fosters the relationship between parents, children and the SEND system.
Figma, Illustrator
12 weeks
Product Design
To aid in achieving the 2030 UN sustainability goal for education: "Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all."
Students with special education needs (SE) are not being screened early enough. By the time support is received, literacy and numeracy gaps have already formed, creating strain on schools and leaving parents to navigate complex government systems to get their children the support they need. The opportunity lies in empowering parents to support their children and identify potential needs at a much earlier point in their development.
The part of this project that I feel represents my skill, style and attention to detail is the Interactive Prototype, but you will also find all the other deliverables and all project files down there too. Jump straight to it with the button below, or take it slow and scroll through my breakdown of the features.
Parents lacking time was a recurring theme in research. Gateway authentication through Apple ID and Google removes friction, getting parents into the app quickly without complex forms that risk the increase of drop off rates.
Safeguarding children was key, the design decision of avatars not only aligns with the gamification theme, but also allows for parents to keep their children's identity anonymous yet uniquely identifiable.
Light and dark modes and adjustable text sizes are implemented from the start, with simple visual representations of how the app will look, catering to all users personal preferences.
Designed for children as young as 3, the screening doesn't require reading skills. Through emoji style symbols and audio cues, the app identifies early literacy and numeracy struggles in children at any developmental stage.
It was key to design for all users in the screening feedback, children receive audio based feedback through sound buttons, keeping the experience positive and accessible. Toggle buttons allow parents to access more detailed reports, helping them better understand their child's specific needs.
Parents have access to a community forum and 'Mini' a chatbot for navigating all aspects of special education needs. Mini is a LLM trained specifically on the education sector, with useful features like the homework scanner, which generates tailored materials when they're struggling to give support. This turns parental uncertainty into quality learning moments.
Explore the iframe below, use the filters panel below to choose from the design file, prototype, research board or presentation
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