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 communication devices are not waterproof. This means the moment a child enters the water, they lose their voice. Pool communication boards bridge this gap by providing a 100% waterproof language system that stays at the water’s edge.
By installing pool communication boards safety and social interactions 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 access decreases anxiety for swimmers. It also gives lifeguards and instructors a clear way to communicate.
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. We craft our pool communication boards from heavy-duty Aluminum Composite.
PVC boards that can warp in the sun or become brittle over time. Our communication boards maintain their structural integrity. The UV-resistant printing makes the symbols remain vibrant and easy to read. This durability makes them a one-time investment for municipalities and private swim clubs looking to improve their ADA compliance.
How Do Pool Communication Boards Enhance Safety in Aquatic Environments?
- – Our communication boards feature core vocabulary words used across environments and activities
- – Pool communication boards allow swimmers to express discomfort, pain, or emergency needs.
- – Visuals help reinforce pool safety rules, waiting times, turn-taking, and behavior expectations
Safety is a top priority in any aquatic setting. Communication boards provide an added layer of protection by ensuring that everyone has a way to express themselves. In environments where water, distance, and background noise can interfere with speech, visual supports offer a clear option.
Core and safety vocabulary help swimmers indicate when they are in need of help. This can be especially important for those who may not be able to call out in a crowded pool environment.
Additionally, visual symbols reinforce important safety expectations like waiting, taking turns, and following pool rules. This not only supports individual understanding but also helps create a safer, more structured environment for all participants.
Product Specifications:
Board Material:
aluminum composite or corrugated plastic
Sizes:
aluminum composite: 3’x2′ (5lbs), 4’x2′(8lbs) or 2’x3′(5lbs); corrugated plastic: 18″ x24″ (1.1 lbs)
Installation:
not included (installation suggests provided)
Lifespan:
aluminum composite: estimated 15+ years; corrugated plastic: estimated 2 years
How Do Pool Communication Boards Support Everyone?
- Our boards support people who’s communication skills are nonverbal, minimally verbal, and emerging.
- Enables those with speech or language difficulties to express needs, wants, and feelings in a noisy or nonverbal environment
These boards meet the needs of a wide range of people, including people who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). In noisy pool and water park environments, having access to a visual communication system is very important.
These boards provide consistent, easy-to-recognize symbols that allows for meaningful communication without relying on speech alone. The board offers a reliable way to express thoughts and needs in real time. This support is very important in busy pool settings. Quick, clear communication can make a big difference in both participation and safety.
How Do Pool Communication Boards Improve Staff and Guest Interaction?
- Pool communication boards help lifeguards, attendants and staff communicate effectively with child and adults with communication differences.
- Provides an accessible way for all visitors—especially those with communication differences—to express themselves, promoting a more positive experience.
Effective communication between staff and guests is essential for both safety and overall experience. Our communication boards serve as a shared communication tool between patrons and the staff responsible for supporting them.
Lifeguards and other team members can use the board to better understand guest needs/concerns and provide clear directions. They give visitors an accessible and dignified way to express themselves.
This shared system reduces confusion, increases clear communication, and helps ensure that every individual feels seen, heard, and supported. As a result, the overall pool experience becomes more positive, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all visitors.
How Do Pool Communication Boards Encourage Social Engagement and Inclusion?
- Pools should be places of inclusion where everyone can enjoy social interaction. Communication boards promote inclusive play. They give children who use AAC an opportunity to engage with their peers.
- Provides the opportunity for increased participation in activites creating an inclusive community.
Pools are social environments, offering opportunities for play, interaction, and connection. However, without accessible communication supports, some people may be unintentionally excluded from these experiences.
Pool communication boards help remove these barriers. They give children and adults who use AAC the tools they need to participate alongside their peers. With access to shared language, children can initiate interactions, respond to others, and engage in group activities more willingly.
These boards also benefit all children, not just those with identified communication needs. By introducing visual communication supports into shared spaces, they promote understanding, empathy, and inclusive play among peers.
Pool communication boards expand participation, support communication, and make inclusion a regular part of the experience. They help to build stronger, more connected communities.
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 easily withstand splashes, steam, or pool chemicals.
Can we customize the vocabulary for swim lessons?
- Absolutely. We do have a standard layout. We will work with you to customized your board to meet your specific needs.
Do you have bilingual boards?
- YES! We complete our standard layout in English, but you can add up to 3 more languages (set-up fee applies).
What size board is best for a large public pool?
- We recommend our 4’x2′ large format for public spaces. This size ensures the icons are visible from several feet away in the water.
Do these boards meet ADA requirements for inclusive play?
- Yes! Adding communication access aligns with “best practices” in Universal Design for pools and splash pads. They also support the “Reasonable Accommodation” spirit of the ADA.
Do you install these boards?
- We do not install our communication boards, however do provide installation suggestions. We suggest working directly with your building manager or maintenance departmentfor their expertise in this area.
Standard Vocabulary and Layout of Pool/Water Park Communication Boards
- We create communication boards that are 100% made-to-order.
- The image to the right shows the standard vocabulary and layout for pool communication boards.
- 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% made-to-order
- 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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Pool Communication Boards in the Community
Recently we have had the pleasure of working with a Eagle Scout candidate, Jackson. As a life guard in Rocky River, Ohio, Jackson saw firsthand how access to communication affected patrons at the pool.
When developing his Eagle Scout community service project he thought of his time at the pool and the need. Working closely with Jackson, we developed a customized communication board. Jackson received financial support of local businesses and community members. This support funded the board as well as the materials to build a portable stand.
Community members at the Rocky River pool now have a means to communicate – giving everyone a voice. Thank you, Jackson!
