How To Encourage The Use of Communication Boards: Easy Guide

Communication boards are valuable tools for individuals with communication differences. They provide the user a way to express needs, wants, and thoughts. In this blog post, we will discuss how to model and encourage the use of communication boards to increase communication and build meaningful relationships.

Understanding the Basics of AAC or Communication Boards

What is a Communication Board?

• A communication board is a non-electronic, visual tool that displays symbols, words, or pictures representing various concepts, actions, or objects.
• Boards can be customized based on an individual’s needs and preferences.
• Users point to or touch symbols on the board to convey messages or participate in conversations.

How Do You Set Up the Board?

• Place the board in a comfortable and accessible position, ensuring it is within reach of the user. For maximum access, the top of the board should be no more than 36″ off the ground.
• Organize symbols logically and in a scientific manner. Your speech-language pathologist will be the best person to have help with this.
• Use clear symbols and always provide text labels to increase visibility and comprehension.
• Customized to meet the individual need of the user and location. Ensure vocabulary used is a mix of core and fringe.

If you are new to AAC boards, our Ultimate Parent Guide is a perfect palce to start. 

How Do I Use Communication Boards? – Teaching and Modeling AAC Use:

• Introduce the board to the user and explain its purpose. For some users it may be a means of clarifying their verbal communication, for others it will provide the bridge to being able to express themself fully.
• Model the use of communication boards by pointing to symbols and saying the corresponding words or phrases. Model without expectation of the user attempting to imitate immediately.
• Encourage the user to interact with the board. Refrain from creating a ‘performance’ situation, this will reduce the users stress and increase natural attempts. 
• Frequent modeling of the use of communication boards will increase the intended users interest and willingness to attempt to use it.

How to Promote Independent Use of Communication Boards?

• Encourage the user to use the board independently whenever possible.
• Provide prompts and support as needed, gradually fading assistance as the user becomes more proficient.
• Reinforce the use of communication boards by responding appropriately to messages conveyed through it.
• It’s OK to deny a request or correct a comment – that is how we all learn language.

How Do I Incorporating Communication Partners to Use Communication Boards?

• Educate communication partners (e.g., family members, caregivers, teachers) on how to use the board.
• Encourage partners to be patient and supportive.
• Suggest the partners model the use of the communication board frequently.
• Foster an environment where the use of communication boards is integrated into daily interactions and activities.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Communication Board

Encouraging the use of communication boards is easier when the board reflects the user’s needs, interests, and daily environments. A thoughtfully designed board includes meaningful vocabulary, familiar symbols, and opportunities for communication throughout the day.

Whether used at home, school, therapy, or community settings, the right communication board can help create more opportunities for connection and independence. Begin to make that connection now by requesting a free quote. 

Conclusion:

Communication boards are valuable tools for individuals with communication differences, providing them with a means to express themselves and participate more fully in daily life. By following the tips outlined in this post, you can help increase the effectiveness and use of communication boards, giving everyone a voice!

For detailed information on the design, materials and installation of our communication board solutions, see our main Communication Board product page.

Ready to take action? Request a free quote today!