Pool Communication Boards
Our pool communication boards make a splash in safety, connection & inclusion.
Water environments offer incredible therapeutic benefits, but they pose a significant challenge for AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) users. Most high-tech speech-generating devices are not waterproof, meaning that the moment a child enters the water, they effectively lose their voice. Pool communication boards bridge this gap by providing a rugged, 100% waterproof language system that stays at the water’s edge.
By installing pool communication boards, aquatic centers and inclusive swim schools ensure that safety and social interaction don’t stop at the pool ladder. These boards allow swimmers to request a “break,” say they are “cold,” or ask for “more” splashing. This accessibility reduces anxiety for neurodivergent swimmers and provides lifeguards and instructors with a clear way to communicate safety instructions to non-verbal patrons.
Durability in Harsh Aquatic Environments
A standard sign won’t survive in a pool environment. Chlorine, salt, and constant humidity create a corrosive atmosphere that destroys laminated paper or cheap plastic. Our pool communication boards are engineered from heavy-duty Aluminum Composite, specifically chosen for its resistance to chemical exposure and moisture.
Unlike PVC boards that can warp in the sun or become brittle over time, these pool communication boards maintain their structural integrity in both indoor heated pools and outdoor community aquatic centers. The UV-resistant printing ensures that the symbols remain vibrant and easy to read even under the glare of reflecting water. This durability makes them a one-time investment for municipalities and private swim clubs looking to improve their ADA compliance.
Designed for All Communicators
- Our pool communication boards support nonverbal, minimally verbal, and emerging communicators
- Enables individuals with speech or language difficulties to express needs, wants and feelings in a noisy or nonverbal environment.
Enhances Safety
- Our pool communication boards feature core vocabulary words used across environments and activities
- Pool communication boards allow swimmers to communicate discomfort, pain, or emergency needs when verbal speech may not be possible or understood due to noise or water.
- Visuals help reinforce pool safety rules, waiting times, turn-taking, and behavior expectations.
Facilitates staff-guest interaction:
- Pool communication boards helps lifeguards, attendants and staff communicate effectively with individuals with communication differences.
- Provides an accessible way for all visitors—especially those with communication differences—to express themselves, promoting a more positive experience.
Encourages social engagement and Inclusivity
- Pools should be places of inclusion where everyone can enjoy social interaction. Pool communication boards promote inclusive play by giving children who use AAC an opportunity to engage with their peers.
- Provides the opportunity for increased participation in activites creating an inclusive community.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Pool Communication Boards
Are pool communication boards truly waterproof?
- Yes. We use aluminum composite and industrial-grade inks that are unaffected by splashes, steam, or pool chemicals.
Can we customize the vocabulary for swim lessons?
- Absolutely. While we have a standard layout, we can customize your pool communication boards to include specific swim terms like goggles, kickboard, fins or floaty.
What size board is best for a large public pool?
- We recommend our 4’x2′ large format for public spaces to ensure the icons are visible from several feet away in the water.
Do these boards meet ADA requirements for inclusive play?
- Yes, adding communication access is considered a “best practice” in Universal Design for aquatic facilities and supports the “Reasonable Accommodation” spirit of the ADA.
Standard Vocabulary and Layout of Pool/Water Park Communication Boards
- Resources at Lakeshore Speech, LLC playground communication boards are 100% customizable to meet the individual needs of you and your project.
- Standard vocabulary and layout for playground communication boards is pictured below.
- Click to enlarge the image for more comfortable viewing.
Aluminum Composite
$550 - $675
- Available in 3 sizes : 2’x3′, 4’x3′ and 3’x2′
- 100% customizable
- Availalbe with Boardmaker or SymbolStix symbol systems.
- Color code system available: Modified Fitzgerald or Gossens’
- Made to order
- Inventory: In Stock
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