Effective Communication Boards in Schools

communication board design at Fairview Park Ohio

Communication Boards in Schools Matter More Than Ever

As certified speech-language pathologists, we see firsthand how simple supports can transform a school’s culture. One tool that is gaining rapid traction, especially among district leaders who prioritize equity and inclusion, is the use of communication boards in schools.

These boards are not new to the world of AAC (augmentative and alternative communication), but their integration into hallways, classrooms, cafeterias, playgrounds, and common areas is a powerful—and necessary—shift. They ensure that all students, including autistic learners, multilingual students, and children with complex communication needs, have access to language throughout the school day.

And increasingly, district administrators are realizing something important: Case studies are essential.

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are a small, SLP-owned company committed to supporting inclusive, language-rich school environments across the country. Every day, we partner with school districts, administrators and educators who want to create learning spaces where all students can thrive—especially those with communication differences or disabilities.

Real examples help leaders understand what implementation looks like, what challenges to expect, how outcomes are measured and why communication boards are more than “extra supports”—they are essential tools for inclusion, peer interaction, and accessible instruction.

In this blog, we explore:

  • What communication boards are
  • Why school case studies matter for leaders
  • Featured examples from districts across the country
  • Lessons learned
  • Recommendations for administrators ready to take the next step

Let’s begin by looking at the foundation.

What Is a Communication Board?

A communication board is a visual support system that uses symbols, pictures, words or icons to represent language. Students can point to the symbols to express needs, ask questions, interact socially, and participate meaningfully in school routines.

In the school setting, the term communication boards in schools refers to:

  • Classroom-based boards
  • Cafeteria or hallway boards
  • Playground boards
  • Portable or laminated boards
  • Wall-mounted communication supports in therapy or resource rooms
  • Communication boards tailored for specific subject areas (e.g., science lab vocabulary)

     

Communication boards can be used as:

  • A communication support for autistic students
  • A universal design tool for multilingual learners
  • A behavior-support tool
  • A scaffold for peer interaction
  • A low-tech backup for students who use high-tech AAC devices

     

Schools often request specialized versions such as a:

  • Communication board for autistic students (often emphasizing sensory, emotional regulation, and choice language)
  • Communication board for inclusion (broad, accessible vocabulary all students can use)
  • Communication board for special needs (adapted for motor, cognitive, or sensory access needs)
  • Communication board for peer interaction (playground, recess, small-group work, restorative circles, and SEL activities)

     

Regardless of the format or purpose, all communication boards in schools share the same goal: To give every student consistent access to language.

And that is where strong case studies help school leaders visualize, plan, and implement successful programs.

inclusive playground boards
Design consultation with certified SLP

Why Case Studies Matter for School Leaders

District leaders often ask:

  • “Will communication boards actually make a measurable difference?”
  • “What does implementation look like at scale?”
  • “How will we evaluate impact?”
  • “How much training do staff need?”
  • “How do we pick the right vocabulary?”
  • “Will typical peers use the boards too?”

Case studies answer these questions by showing real-world examples of what works (and what doesn’t).

Case studies give school leaders:

1. Evidence for decision-making

Stories with concrete results help justify funding, staffing, and resource allocation.

2. Models for implementation

Administrators can see how other districts introduced, taught, and sustained communication board use—not just in special education, but schoolwide.

3. Insight into challenges

Every district faces unique hurdles. Case studies help leaders anticipate and prevent obstacles.

4. Student-centered outcomes

Data is valuable, but stories—especially stories of communication growth—bring meaning and urgency to district decisions.

5. A roadmap for scaling

School leaders can learn how to integrate communication boards across buildings, grade levels, and programs.

This is why we’ve included several detailed, realistic case studies below.

Case Study #1:

A District Adds Communication Boards to All Common Areas

Project Overview

A mid-size district wanted to improve access to communication supports for students with autism and students with emerging expressive language skills. The special education director noticed that many students struggled during transitions—hallways, gym classes, arrival, and dismissal.

Challenges Identified

  • High-energy transitions overwhelmed many autistic students
  • Students using AAC devices often did not have access during out-of-class moments
  • Staff reported meltdowns and communication breakdowns in hallways

Solutions Implemented

  • Wall-mounted communication boards in schools were added in:
    • Main hallways
    • Near the office
    • By restrooms
    • In gym entrances
  • Boards included both core and fringe vocabulary (e.g., “stop,” “wait,” “help,” “go,” “line up,” “chair,” “tired,” “bathroom”).
  • SLPs trained staff in modeling and prompting strategies.

Outcomes

  • Reduction in hallway behavioral incidents
  • Increased independence for autistic students
  • Quicker transitions
  • Staff reported feeling better equipped to support students

Feedback

Teachers said the boards helped them communicate more efficiently with students who didn’t have access to devices during movement between classes.

A teacher shared:
 “I didn’t realize how much my nonverbal students needed language between spaces. Now they always have a voice.”

Case Study #2:

Recess-Based Communication Boards for Peer Interaction

Project Overview

An elementary school wanted to improve recess engagement for students who rarely initiated or joined peer play. SLPs suggested adding a communication board for peer interaction near the playground and blacktop.

Challenges Identified

  • Students with language delays were isolated during recess
  • Peers wanted to include them but didn’t know how
  • AAC devices were usually not brought outdoors

Solutions Implemented

  • A large playground communication board was installed
  • Vocabulary targeted: games, feelings, requests, greetings, turn-taking
  • SLPs demonstrated usage during recess clubs
  • Student leaders (4th–5th grade “Play Buddies”) were trained to model symbols

Outcomes

  • More inclusive play groups
  • Peer-initiated social interaction increased
  • Students with complex needs used the board independently
  • Teachers reported fewer social conflicts

Feedback

A parent of an autistic student said:
 “For the first time, my son came home and said he played with friends. This board changed recess for him.”

Case Study #3:

Classroom-Led Academic Boards to Support Inclusion

Project Overview

A district with a growing population of multilingual learners and autistic students wanted to support content access. SLPs partnered with teachers to create communication boards in schools tailored to academic units.

Challenges Identified

  • Vocabulary demands were high
  • Students struggled to participate in group discussions
  • High-tech AAC devices couldn’t be easily adapted for every academic topic

Solutions Implemented

  • Unit-specific boards for science, literacy, SEL, and math
  • Boards taped to student desks and posted on whiteboards
  • Teachers taught 2–3 symbols a day using explicit modeling
  • SLPs provided push-in support to demonstrate integration

Outcomes

  • Increased oral participation from multilingual and autistic students
  • Decreased frustration during writing and lab work
  • Stronger alignment with IEP communication goals

Feedback

Teachers reported that boards functioned as universal design tools—beneficial not only for students with special needs but for the entire class.

Case Study #4: 

Districtwide Rollout of Communication Boards for Special Needs Programs

Project Overview

A district undergoing a special education audit wanted consistency across programs. Some classrooms used communication supports; others did not.

Challenges Identified

  • Inconsistent vocabulary
  • Staff discomfort with AAC
  • Students struggling with transitions between schools

Solutions Implemented

  • Districtwide core vocabulary selection
  • Uniform branding and color coding
  • Boards installed in therapy rooms, resource spaces, calming areas, and cafeterias
  • Mandatory professional development for all staff—general education included
  • Family training sessions

Outcomes

  • Streamlined AAC support across schools
  • Increased consistency for students moving between grades or buildings
  • More collaboration between SLPs, teachers, and paras

Feedback

Administrators reported increased IEP team satisfaction and more cohesive programming.

Lessons Learned from Real District Implementations

Across all projects, we notice common themes. These lessons help school leaders plan effective, sustainable programs.

Lesson 1: Universal Access Matters

Boards cannot just be in special education rooms. When communication boards in schools are placed in:

  • hallways
  • cafeterias
  • recess areas
  • buses and arrival zones
  • music and art rooms

students use them more—and so do peers and staff.

Lesson 2: Training Is Essential

Even the best tools fall flat without training. Successful districts offered:

  • SLP-led modeling sessions
  • Coaching for paraprofessionals
  • Classroom demonstrations
  • Role-playing for peer leaders
  • Quick visual guides for teachers

Training doesn’t need to be lengthy—a 20-minute session before school can make a big difference.

Lesson 3: Vocabulary Should Be Purposeful

Communication boards in schools must be age-appropriate, culturally responsive and consistent.

Successful districts choose vocabulary that supports:

  • Social-emotional learning
  • Classroom engagement
  • Play and peer interaction
  • Functional communication
  • Academic content

Lesson 4: Visibility Equals Use

The more visible the board, the more likely it will be used.

Districts see the best results when boards are:

  • Large (3’x2’ or 4’x2’)
  • Eye-level (top of board no more than 36” off the ground)
  • Bright and friendly
  • Consistent in design
  • Integrated into routines

Lesson 5: Peers Are the Best Communication Partners

Inclusion improves when typical peers are taught how to use the board.

Student leaders, playground helpers, and recess buddies played essential roles in every successful case study.

communication boards

Recommendations for Other Districts

If you are a school administrator or district leader exploring communication boards in schools, here are clear recommendations from the SLP team at Resources at Lakeshore Speech.

playground communication boards

1. Start With One Pilot School

Choose a school with:

  • strong admin support
  • engaged SLPs
  • motivated teachers

Success spreads quickly.

2. Involve SLPs from Day One

SLPs understand:

  • symbol selection
  • AAC principles
  • accessibility needs
  • implementation strategies

Their expertise ensures the board is functional, not just decorative.

3. Focus on High-Impact Areas First

Prioritize:

  • playgrounds (for peer interaction)
  • cafeterias
  • hallways
  • arrival/dismissal zones
  • therapy and calming areas

These environments benefit immediately.

4. Train Staff Before Installation

One short, well-organized training session improves confidence and buy-in.

5. Add Family Training Opportunities

Families often want to extend communication access at home.

Offer:

  • take-home boards
  • evening workshops
  • multilingual materials

6. Track Outcomes

Look for:

  • changes in peer interaction
  • reduction in behavior incidents
  • increased independence
  • IEP progress
    teacher feedback

Use these data points to refine the system.

Replicating Success in Schools Across the Country

Communication boards in schools are more than visual tools—they are an investment in inclusion, equity and accessible communication for all students. They support autistic learners, multilingual students, children with special needs, and peers who want to connect but may not know how.

Case studies show us that when schools adopt these tools, the results are powerful:

  • improved peer interaction
  • increased independence
  • stronger inclusive practices
  • more efficient transitions
  • reduced frustration and behavior concerns
  • greater staff confidence
  • consistent support across classrooms and campuses

     

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are passionate about helping districts create communication-rich environments where every student has a voice.

We would love to help your district build an inclusive, accessible communication system that benefits students, staff and families. Contact us today.

Communication Boards : The Ulitmate Parent’s Guide

Clinic communication board in use at a private speech therapy clinic in Ohio.

Communication Boards: Parent Guide to AAC

communication boards for playgrounds
Clinic communication board in use at a private speech therapy clinic in Ohio.

Supporting Communication Everywhere

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, our team of certified speech-language pathologists designs durable, evidence-based communication boards for kids to bridge the gap between therapy, home and the community.  Whether a child is developing early communication skills, has a speech delay or uses AAC (augmentative and alternative communication),  communication boards open doors to meaningful interactions.

A communication board is much more than a laminated sheet of symbols. It is a bridge—connecting children to their families, teachers, peers, and communities. In this guide, we’ll explain what a communication board is, how to teach a child to use one and how communication boards can support children in everyday settings such as home, school, playgrounds and community spaces.

You will also learn how communication board strategies support regulation and independence, how customizable communication boards empower children of all abilities and how family engagement accelerates learning and confidence.

What Is a Communication Board?

A communication board is a visual tool that displays words, symbols, photos, or icons that children can point to in order to express themselves. Boards come in many forms—low-tech printed boards, boards printed on all weather aluminum or high-tech digital versions within AAC apps. Regardless of format, the purpose is the same: to give children a reliable way to communicate.

Communication boards may include:

  • Core vocabulary words such as go, want, more, help, stop, you, and I
  • Fringe vocabulary specific to routines (e.g., bath time, snack, school items)
  • Emotion icons for regulation and self-expression
  • Topic-specific boards for places like playgrounds, libraries or classrooms

For children with Autism, a communication board can be especially helpful. These boards often incorporate predictable layouts, visual supports for sensory needs and symbols tied to routines—helping children understand expectations and communicate effectively.

The beauty of a communication board is that it honors every child’s voice—whether they are speaking, learning to speak or using AAC as their primary mode of expression.

How Do You Teach a Child to Use a Communication Board?

Teaching a child to use a communication board is a warm, interactive, and ongoing process. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, given our vast clinic experiences we promote modeling, engagement and functional communication rather than drills or memorization.

1. Model, Model, Model

Children learn by watching. When adults use the communication board while talking, the child builds understanding and confidence. This is called AAC modeling or aided language input.

For example:

  • During snack, you might touch want + cracker while saying, “You want a cracker!”
  • When a child seems frustrated, you may point to help while asking, “Do you need help?”

Over time, your child begins to imitate or explore the board independently.

2. Follow the Child’s Lead

Communication should be fun—not forced. Instead of asking children to repeat or “say the word,” observe what interests them and model language related to their goals.

If the child reaches for bubbles, you might model open, more, go, or big bubbles. This naturalistic approach increases carryover and engagement.

3. Start With Core Words

It’s tempting to fill a communication board with every picture imaginable. Instead, begin with high-frequency, versatile words that help children express many ideas.
 Core words such as want, go, more, stop, and look are powerful because they fit into countless routines.

4. Celebrate All Communication

A child may first use the communication board by:

  • Touching random symbols
  • Pointing to a single word
  • Using gestures and symbols together
  • Looking at the board instead of touching it

Every attempt is communication. Celebrate it and respond meaningfully to reinforce participation.

5. Practice Across Routines

Children need consistent exposure. Using the board during meals, play, transitions, and community outings helps them understand that they can communicate everywhere—not just at therapy.

Using Communication Boards at Home

Home is the perfect environment to practice communication in natural, supportive ways. When families engage daily, progress accelerates.

Daily Routines for Natural Communication Opportunities

Daily routines help children learn because they are repetitive and predictable.

Morning Routine

Post a communication board near the child’s bedroom or bathroom. Model words such as:

  • wake up, brush teeth, done, help, go, more, different shirt
     This also supports autonomy and reduces frustration.

Mealtime

During meals, communication boards can help children request, comment, and interact. Encourage family engagement by inviting siblings or caregivers to also model words.

Try modeling:

  • more, all done, yummy, drink, help, hot, cold
  • Emotion words such as happy or tired

Place boards in easy-to-reach spots—on the refrigerator, on a table, or on the child’s highchair tray.

Playtime

Play is one of the richest opportunities for communication. Whether a child uses cars, dolls, blocks, or pretend kitchens, a communication board supports vocabulary and imagination.

Model words like:

  • go, stop, up, down, make, turn, big, little, look
     Children using customizable communication boards may benefit from toy-specific pages (e.g., farm animals, vehicles, dress-up items).

Partnering With Schools and Therapists

Collaboration is key to helping children thrive. When communication boards are used consistently across environments, children gain confidence, independence, and expressive language skills.

Working With Your Child’s School Team

Teachers, paraprofessionals and therapists all play important roles. Share the board your child uses at home and ask how school teams integrate AAC and communication supports.

Encourage:

  • Consistency in symbol layout
  • Shared vocabulary sets
  • Clear strategies for modeling and prompting
  • Staff training on AAC and communication boards
  • Opportunities for peer interaction

When home and school mirror one another, children experience a smoother learning curve.

Partnering With Speech-Language Pathologists

Speech-Language Pathologists provide collaborative support to schools, preschools, early-intervention programs and families. SLPs 

  • Assess communication needs
  • Select appropriate communication boards
  • Train staff in AAC modeling
  • Provide progress monitoring and updates
  • Coordinate goals across settings

Bringing Boards to Playgrounds and Community Spaces

Children deserve to communicate everywhere—not just in structured settings. Community environments offer exciting, motivating contexts that spark communication.

Playgrounds

Playgrounds encourage movement, sensory exploration and social learning. Use communication boards to support:

  • Requests (swing, slide, climb, go faster)
  • Social interactions (your turn, my turn, help me)
  • Sensory needs (loud, quiet, break)
     Many communities now install outdoor communication boards in public parks. These boards create inclusive play spaces where all children can express themselves.

Libraries and Stores

Bring a portable communication board in a bag or on a lanyard. Model functional vocabulary such as open, look, read, buy, stop, or help.
 These outings help children generalize communication skills to real-world environments.

Restaurants

A small laminated communication board (or one stored on your phone) can help your child communicate choices, preferences, and needs. Words like hungry, drink, wait, different, or bathroom are helpful.

Tips for Creating Customizable Communication Boards 

A one-size-fits-all communication board does not exist—and that’s a good thing. Children thrive when boards reflect their unique personalities, routines, and goals.

Here are tips from our speech-language pathologists for building customizable communication boards:

1. Start With Core Words

Core vocabulary makes the board functional across routines and environments. Even children with very limited communication skills benefit from core-first boards.

2. Add Fringe Vocabulary as Needed

Include words related to:

  • Favorite toys
  • Food preferences
  • School supplies
  • Sensory needs
  • Community outings

Fringe boards support daily success and reduce frustration.

3. Keep the Layout Consistent

Children develop muscle memory for symbol locations. Keep the most important symbols in the same spots across different boards.

4. Use Real Photos When Helpful

For children who respond better to actual images, include photos of family members, familiar foods, or personal items. This is especially helpful for early communicators and children with autism.

5. Make Boards Durable and Portable

Laminated boards, keychain-size symbols, clip-on binders, and waterproof materials help children communicate across all settings—even at the beach or on a hike.

6. Include Emotion and Regulation Supports

Emotion symbols and sensory vocabulary empower children to communicate feelings, needs, and strategies for self-regulation, such as break, quiet, or hug.

7. Revisit and Update Boards Regularly

Communication evolves. If a child outgrows a favorite toy or gains new interests, update the board so it continues to meet their needs.

Empowering Your Child Through Communication

Communication boards are powerful, flexible tools that help children express themselves across home, school, and community environments. Whether you’re using a simple low-tech board or a high-tech device, the goal remains the same: to provide your child with a reliable voice.

Ready to make your local park or school more inclusive? Request a FREE Quote for a customizable playground communication board today.

Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech today for guidance and support on providing access to communication in public spaces in YOUR community.

communication boards
emotional regulation / balance communication boards

Communication Boards = Inclusive Public Spaces: 5 Questions

Inclusive Public Spaces

Inclusive Playground Communication Boards: What They Are and Why They Matter in Public Spaces

The Shift Toward Inclusive Play

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, our team of speech-language pathologists works every day with children who communicate in diverse ways. Across the country, we collaborate with families, schools, community leaders and parks and recreation teams who share one common goal: to create environments where every child can play, connect and feel included.

As inclusive design becomes the standard—not the exception—communities are increasingly turning their attention to tools that support meaningful social participation. One tool is rising to the top of playground equipment trends: playground communication boards.

Communication boards have existed for decades in clinical and educational settings, but their expansion into public play areas represents a powerful step toward equity. When paired with evolving ADA-compliant playground standards, sensory-friendly features and universal design principles, they help ensure that every child—regardless of communication ability—can participate in play.

In this blog, we’ll answer the questions:

  • What is a communication board?
  • Why are playground communication boards so important in public spaces?
  • How do they support neurodivergent children and those who use AAC (augmentative and alternative communication)?
  • How do boards fit into broader playground equipment trends?
  • How does one stay informed as inclusive playground solutions continue to evolve?

As SLPs, we are thrilled to see communities asking not just “Is this playground fun?” but “Is this playground accessible, welcoming and communicatively inclusive?”

What Is a Communication Board?

A communication board is a visual tool containing a selection of symbols, illustrations, or words that represent commonly used vocabulary. Individuals point to or touch these symbols to express needs, ideas, and emotions. Communication boards are one of the simplest and most widely used forms of AAC (augmentative and alternative communication).

On playgrounds, communication boards typically include core vocabulary such as:

  • “Help”

     

  • “Stop”

     

  • “Go”

     

  • “Want”

And fringe vocabulary such as: 

  • ”Slide”

     

  • “Swing”

     

  • “My turn”

     

  • “Let’s play”

     

  • “Friend”

     

  • Emotion symbols for happy, scared, tired, excited

     

Though often mounted near entrances, next to high-traffic activities like slides or swings or even installed directly on the playground equipment.

Why Do Communication Boards Work?

Communication boards allow children to:

  • Interact with peers even without spoken language

     

  • Clarify their wants and needs during play

     

  • Build functional vocabulary in real-world environments

     

  • Increase social participation

     

  • Reduce frustration, meltdowns and misunderstandings

     

For children with autism, developmental delays, apraxia, down syndrome, ADHD, sensory processing differences or selective mutism, the presence of a board can be the difference between accessing play and watching play happen around them.

But communication boards don’t just support children—they support adults, too: teachers, paraeducators, SLPs, playground staff and caregivers who may need a quick, low-tech tool to model language or support a child in a moment of need.

How do boards fit into broader playground equipment trends?

Latest Equipment Innovations in Inclusive Playgrounds

The rise of playground communication boards fits into a broader movement toward inclusive play spaces that support children of all abilities. These projects are driven by evolving standards for ADA compliance playground design, updated research on sensory-rich environments, and global conversations about the importance of universal design.

Below are some of the biggest equipment and design trends shaping today’s playgrounds.

1. Sensory-Friendly Features

Sensory-friendly playground equipment is becoming a non-negotiable element in inclusive design. Communities and manufacturers are integrating sensory play to support children with autism, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, developmental disabilities and motor challenges.

Common sensory-friendly features include:

Visual

  • Calming color palettes

     

  • High-contrast pathways for safe navigation

     

  • Visual schedules mounted near entry points

     

Auditory

  • Musical elements like chimes or drums

     

  • Noise-buffering materials to reduce overwhelming echoes

     

Tactile

  • Textured climbing features

     

  • Sand, water and sensory tables

     

  • Smooth and rough sensory borders

     

Proprioceptive & Vestibular

  • Cozy nooks and quiet zones

     

  • Swings that support varied body positioning

     

  • Spinning elements with safety modifications

     

Playground communication boards naturally complement these features by helping children label sensory experiences, request breaks or communicate discomfort—critical tools for self-regulation.

2. Universal Design Principles

Universal design principles ensure that built environments can be accessed and used by the greatest number of people without the need for adaptation.

When applied to playgrounds, universal design encourages:

  • Equipment that is multilevel and approachable from multiple angles

     

  • Wide, clearly delineated pathways

     

  • Ramp access to elevated play structures

     

  • Equipment usable by children with and without mobility devices

     

  • Clear signage and visual supports

     

  • Social-communication tools like playground communication boards

     

By incorporating boards directly into playground pathways, communities send a powerful message: communication access is as essential as physical access.

3. Growth of Special Needs Playground Equipment

Demand for special needs playground equipment has surged. Not because children with disabilities require separate areas, but because appropriately designed equipment can elevate participation for all children.

These adaptations include:

  • High-back, harnessed swings

     

  • Spinner bowls with supportive seating

     

  • Ground-level merry-go-rounds accessible to wheelchairs

     

  • Safe-entry slides with guardrails

     

  • Motion-controlled interactive panels

     

  • Social-emotional learning panels

     

  • Play structures designed for lower sensory load

     

Adding communication boards alongside this inclusive equipment promotes collaborative, accessible, language-rich play.

Why are playground communication boards so important in public spaces?

The Role of Playground Communication Boards in Public Spaces

Playgrounds are more than recreational zones—they are learning labs for social communication.

Below are the key reasons these boards are becoming essential across the United States.

1. Promoting Social Inclusion

Children who struggle to communicate often withdraw during play. A communication board levels the playing field by giving access to shared vocabulary. Children who are minimally verbal, emerging communicators, or new to English can all participate more fully.

Boards also help typically developing children initiate communication with peers who communicate differently—leading to friendships that may not have formed otherwise.

2. Supporting AAC Users

Many children rely on digital AAC devices such as tablets with speech-generating apps. However:

  • Devices may not be allowed in sand or water areas

     

  • Families may worry about damage

     

  • The device may not be available at the moment

     

  • Devices can glitch, freeze or lose power

     

Playground communication boards provide a reliable low-tech backup, recommended by SLPs and AAC guidelines.

This ensures that communication doesn’t disappear when a device is inaccessible.

3. Increasing ADA and Accessibility Compliance

While ADA regulations do not yet explicitly require communication boards, they strongly encourage inclusive, accessible communication options in public spaces.

Boards support:

  • Functional communication

     

  • Emotional regulation

     

  • Safety and emergency communication

     

  • Equal participation

     

Communities striving for an inclusive ADA compliance playground often adopt communication boards proactively, recognizing that communication access is a fundamental right.

4. Supporting Children With Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

For many autistic children or others with language-based disabilities, play can be overwhelming. Communication boards help them:

  • Request space or breaks

     

  • Communicate emotions

     

  • Ask for specific sensory experiences (“swing,” “spin,” “quiet”)

     

  • Navigate turn-taking and social rules

     

  • Reduce frustration and dysregulation

     

Boards also serve as visual anchors—helping children anticipate what’s available and what to expect next.

5. Encouraging Language Modeling by Adults

Boards create instant opportunities for adults to model language. An SLP, parent, paraeducator, or even a peer can point to symbols to demonstrate:

  • Requesting

     

  • Commenting

     

  • Greeting

     

  • Problem-solving

     

  • Emotional expression

     

This is especially valuable because children learn language through experience—not drills.

inclusive
Design consultation with certified SLP

How do they support neurodivergent children and those who use AAC?

Below are composite but realistic examples our SLPs encounter across the country.

Example #1: A Child With Autism Finds His Voice at the Playground

“Evan,” age 5, visited his neighborhood playground weekly. His parents worried because he typically paced the perimeter rather than joining other children. He often became frustrated and melted down when approached or redirected.

After the city installed playground communication boards, Evan’s mom showed him how to point to “swing” and “my turn.”

Within two weeks, Evan began initiating play for the first time. He pointed to “go,” looked at another child, and climbed onto the swings—smiling.

Today, Evan uses 15–20 playground vocabulary symbols independently. His parents credit the board for giving him social confidence and reducing meltdowns.

Example #2: A Parks and Recreation Team Improves Safety and Communication

A mid-size parks department wanted more inclusive features but had limited funds. After consulting with SLPs and community disability advocates, they chose communication boards as a cost-effective first step.

The results were immediate.

Staff members noticed that communication breakdowns—especially among toddlers and neurodivergent children—decreased dramatically.

Common phrases children used:

  • “I’m hurt.”

  • “I need help.”

  • “Bathroom.”

  • “I’m sad.”

This is the smallest investment with the biggest impact.

Example #3: Integrating Boards Into Special Needs Playground Equipment

A school district upgraded several playgrounds with sensory-friendly equipment. However, teachers noticed children struggled to communicate during group play activities.

SLPs collaborated with the district to install:

  • A large main communication board at the entrance

  • Smaller boards near the swings and slides

Students communicate more effectively across settings—from recess to therapy to the classroom.

How does one stay informed as inclusive playground solutions continue to evolve?

Staying Current With Playground Communication Trends

The landscape of inclusive design is evolving quickly. Here’s how parks departments, educators, SLPs, and families can stay informed.

1. Follow Industry Research and Standards

Key organizations include:

These groups frequently issue updates on safety, accessibility and inclusive design best practices.

2. Collaborate With SLPs and AAC Specialists

SLPs bring expertise in:

  • Vocabulary selection

  • Symbol organization

  • Cultural and linguistic inclusivity

  • Evidence-based AAC strategies

Partnerships between SLPs and parks & recreation departments ensure boards are functional, accessible and impactful. As practicing SLPs, we at Resources at Lakeshore Speech encourage a meeting with parks and recreation departments to discuss customizing communication boards specific to the community. 

3. Explore Emerging Playground Equipment Trends

Manufacturers are increasingly integrating:

  • QR-code-linked digital boards

  • Multilingual symbol sets

  • Weather-resistant materials

  • ADA-friendly layouts

  • Integrated communication boards on equipment

  • Sensory zones supported by communication guides

Staying informed helps communities choose equipment that meets both immediate needs and future accessibility goals.

4. Gather Community Feedback

Ask families, teachers, and children:

  • What vocabulary is missing?

  • Is the board easy to understand?

  • Should more boards be installed in different zones?

  • Do caregivers want training on how to use them?

Co-designing with the community ensures communication boards truly reflect local needs.

Investing in the Future of Play

Playgrounds are not simply places to climb, swing, and slide. They are places where children learn to negotiate, cooperate, express themselves, and build relationships.

By incorporating playground communication boards, communities promote:

  • Inclusive play

  • Language development

  • Social-emotional learning

  • Safety and accessibility

  • Equal participation for all children

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe communication access is a foundational part of inclusive design. Boards are simple, cost-effective, and profoundly transformative.

Whether you are a parks and recreation leader planning renovations, an SLP advocating for your school district, or a parent seeking support for your child—we are here to help.

Partner with Resources at Lakeshore Speech to bring communication boards to your school, park or community space.

We would love to support your team, help choose vocabulary or consult on the design of your next inclusive play project.

benefits of Communication boards for children
Playground communication boards

Impactful Playground Communication Boards:Make Voices Thrive

outdoor communication board

Discover how playground communication boards help kids with social skills, emotions, & confidence. Build a community where everyone’s voice matters.

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Professional AAC Workshop: Guiding the Next Gen of SLPs

SLP-designed clinic communication board for speech therapy sessions and special education classrooms.

Resources at Lakeshore Speech’s AAC workshop bridges classroom learning with real-world impact, teaching grad students to design inclusive communication boards.

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SeeMyLegacy: Funding Communication Boards for Municipalities

funding opportuntities

Discover how SeeMyLegacy empowers communities to fund communication boards, boosting inclusion and engagement in public spaces.

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Waterproof and UV-resistant pool communication board

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Struggling with meltdowns? Emotional regulation boards help kids & adults express feelings, prevent overload, and boost communication when words are hard.

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Pool Communication Boards: How to Create Waterproof Words

symbols system - symbolstix

Poolside communication boards enhance safety, inclusivity, and accessibility, ensuring everyone—regardless of communication style—has a voice at the pool.

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Empowering Emotional Balance Boards for Home & School

emotional regulation / /balance communication board

Discover how emotional regulation boards help individuals express emotions, build social-emotional skills, and develop coping strategies at school, home, and beyond.

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