Transforming Sports: The Benefits of a Communication Board

Therapeutic riding Communication Boards

Empowering Every Athlete: The Definitive Guide to Using a Communication Board in Therapeutic Sports and Recreation

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe that every individual deserves a voice, regardless of their physical or cognitive setting. The right tools can bridge the gap between “participating” and “thriving.” In the world of adaptive athletics—from therapeutic riding arenas to soccer fields—the most vital piece of equipment isn’t always a specialized saddle or a modified ball. Often, it is a communication board.

“The Why” behind our mission is simple: communication is a human right. In therapeutic sports and recreation, the stakes are high. When an athlete cannot express pain, joy, or a need for a break, their safety and autonomy are compromised. By implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, we move away from guessing and toward true inclusivity.

What is a Communication Board in a Therapeutic Context?

A communication board is a form of AAC that uses symbols, pictures, or photos to help individuals express their thoughts, needs, and feelings. In the context of therapeutic sports and recreation, these boards are often large-format, weather-resistant signs placed strategically where the action happens.

Whether a participant uses a high-tech speech-generating device at home or relies on gestures and facial expressions, a permanent AAC board on-site ensures that communication is always “available” and “normalized.” It removes the burden of carrying expensive electronics into dusty arenas or splash zones, providing a reliable, “low-tech” backup that everyone—coaches, volunteers, and peers—can understand.

The Activity Communication Gap: Moving Beyond Interpretation

A recurring challenge observed during therapeutic sports practices and events: The Activity Communication Gap. You have likely seen it yourself:

  • A rider at a therapeutic center who begins to melt down because they cannot say “stop” when sensory input becomes overwhelming.
  • A soccer player who stands frozen because they can’t signal “ready” or “wait.”
  • A camper who passively follows instructions but lacks the means to say “different” when they want to try a new craft.

When a participant lacks a functional way to speak, instructors often resort to interpreting behavior. While well-intentioned, interpretation is not communication. Interpretation is a guess; communication is agency. By installing a communication board, we provide the participant with the power of self-advocacy.

Where to Implement an AAC Board for Maximum Impact

To foster true inclusivity, a communication board should not be tucked away in a therapist’s office. It needs to be where the life of the program happens. Leading programs are implementing these tools in five key zones:

1. Arena and Field Entry

This serves as a pre-activity check-in. Participants can point to symbols to indicate their mood, their readiness to start, or even which piece of equipment they feel like using that day.

2. Activity Zones

During the heat of the game or the height of a lesson, communication needs to be instantaneous. Boards placed on the sidelines of a court or the fence of an arena allow for mid-activity choices, such as “faster,” “slower,” or “my turn.”

3. Rest Areas and Regulation Stations

Therapeutic recreation can be taxing. Having a communication board in a “cool-down” zone allows a participant to ask for “water,” “break,” or “quiet time,” helping them regulate their nervous system before a breakdown occurs.

4. Equipment and Tack Rooms

Involvement in the “prep” phase of sports builds vocational and life skills. Using a board to identify a “helmet,” “vest,” “saddle,” or “ball” encourages vocabulary growth and independence.

5. Transition and Reflection Zones

Post-activity reflection is crucial for cognitive processing. A board at the exit allows a participant to tell their parents or caregivers, “I liked it,” “It was hard,” or “I want to do it again.”

Clinic communication board in sensory gym
emotional regulation balance communication board

People Also Ask: Common Questions About Communication Boards

How do I know which symbols to include on an AAC board?

The selection of symbols should never be random. In the field of Speech-Language Pathology, we follow Evidence-Based Practice (EBP). According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), effective AAC should include a mix of “core vocabulary” (high-frequency words like go, stop, want, help) and “fringe vocabulary” (activity-specific words like horse, ball, kick).

Can adults use these boards, or are they just for children?

Inclusivity means everyone. These boards are designed for individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, aphasia from a stroke, or even temporary injuries. The use of universal symbols (like Boardmaker/PCS or SymbolStix) ensures that the message is clear regardless of the user’s age or literacy level.

Will using a communication board stop my child from talking?

This is a common myth. Decades of SLP research show that AAC actually supports and encourages natural speech development. It reduces the frustration of being misunderstood, which often opens the door to more vocal attempts.

Material Considerations for Activity Environments

When choosing a communication board, the environment dictates the material. You wouldn’t use a cardboard box as a hurdle, and you shouldn’t use paper for an outdoor arena.

Outdoor Fields and Arenas

For environments exposed to the elements, Aluminum Composite is the industry standard.

  • Durability: 15+ year lifespan.
  • Resilience: Temperature stable from -20°F to 120°F.
  • Quality: UV-cured printing ensures the symbols don’t fade under the sun.
  • Cost: Typically ranges from $550-$675.

Indoor Gyms and Protected Areas

For tack rooms or indoor courts, Coroplast (corrugated plastic) is a budget-friendly alternative.

  • Lifespan: 5-7 years.
  • Cost: Typically ranges from $200-$400.
  • Utility: Lightweight and easy to mount on walls or portable easels.

Evidence-Based Practice: Why It Matters

As SLPs, our practice is grounded in the “Participation Model.” This framework suggests that we must identify barriers to communication and then provide the necessary supports to overcome them. A communication board is a direct intervention that addresses the “opportunity barrier.”

When we provide an AAC board in a public or recreational space, we are practicing Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This means we are creating an environment that is accessible to the greatest number of people without the need for adaptation or specialized design. It benefits the non-speaking child, the senior with hearing loss and even the volunteer who might be a non-native English speaker.

Symbol Selection: The Vocabulary of Play

A successful communication board for therapeutic sports and recreation focuses on functional communication. Here are the categories of words we prioritize at Resources at Lakeshore Speech:

Category

Key Vocabulary Examples

Safety

STOP, WAIT, HELP, SLOW, HURT

Readiness

READY, NOT READY, MORE, DONE

Activity-Specific

WALK, TROT, THROW, KICK, CATCH

Feelings/Comfort

GOOD, DIFFERENT, AGAIN, HARD, EASY

Equipment

HELMET, BALL, BAT, VEST, GLOVE

By providing these specific words, we allow the athlete to be a partner in the process, not just a recipient of a service.

Funding Pathways: How to Pay for Your Communication Board

One of the most frequent hurdles programs face is the budget. However, we have seen that therapeutic sports and recreation programs rarely have to pay for these boards out of pocket. Many “stack” their funding through these common pathways:

  1. Adaptive Sports Grants: Many state and federal agencies offer funding specifically for “accessible equipment.”
  2. Therapeutic Riding Associations: Organizations like PATH Intl. often have small grants for facility improvements.
  3. Community Foundations: Local Rotary Clubs or disability advocacy groups love funding tangible projects like a permanent AAC board.
  4. Donor Campaigns: “Give a Participant a Voice” is a powerful message for a capital campaign. A single donor can often sponsor one board for the cost of a few hundred dollars.

The Human Cost: Why Waiting Isn’t an Option

When program directors ask about the return on investment for a communication board, the most valuable question isn’t about the $600 for the aluminum or the $300 for the Coroplast.

The real question is: What is the cost of not doing this?

It is the cost of the participant who spends an entire hour in a riding lesson unable to say “I’m scared.” It is the cost of the athlete who never learns that their opinion matters. It is the cost of the student who goes through your program without ever experiencing the thrill of self-advocacy.

When we fail to provide a communication board, we are inadvertently telling the participant that their voice is only welcome if it sounds like ours. Inclusivity demands better.

Conclusion: Empowering Your Community

Implementing a communication board is a transformative step toward a truly inclusive therapeutic environment. It shifts the power dynamic, giving the athlete the tools to lead their own journey. It provides volunteers with the confidence to assist and parents with the relief of knowing their child is understood.

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are dedicated to helping organizations navigate the complexities of AAC and therapeutic communication. Whether you are a small riding center or a large-scale adaptive sports complex, your participants deserve to be heard.

Ready to give your participants a voice? Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech today for a professional consultation on selecting, designing, and implementing the perfect communication board for your facility. Let’s build a more inclusive world, one word at a time.

Clinic communication board in sensory gym
communication boards $550
Therapeutic riding Communication Boards

Inspiring Connections: Communication Board Design for Fun

Teacher communicating with student using playground communication board.

Communication Board Design:
A Speech Pathologist’s Guide to Inclusive Play

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we’ve seen firsthand that a child’s “voice” doesn’t stop at the classroom door. As SLPs, we know that the playground is where some of the most vital social-emotional learning happens. However, for many children, these spaces can feel isolating without the right tools.

Communication board design is one of the most effective ways to bridge that gap. By bringing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) into the sunshine, we aren’t just providing a tool—we’re validating a language. This guide explores how to design these boards so they truly serve the families who need them most.

As we enter the “Spring into Action” season, many park departments and school boards are looking for ways to refresh their outdoor spaces. In our clinical experience, there is no better way to “spring into action” than by ensuring the very foundation of your community—the playground—is accessible to every single child, regardless of how they communicate. When we look at a park, we don’t just see equipment; we see opportunities for connection, and communication boards are the physical manifestation of that opportunity.

What exactly is a Communication Board?

We refer to these as a form of “Light-Tech” AAC. These boards use symbols and pictures to help children—especially those with Autism, apraxia, or Down syndrome—express their thoughts when verbal speech is difficult.

On a playground, a board acts as a “point-and-talk” station. Instead of a child feeling frustrated because they can’t ask for the “swing,” they can simply point to a symbol. This reduces the “communication breakdown” and invites neurotypical peers to interact in a way that is natural and visual.

It is important to remember that AAC is not a “replacement” for speech; rather, it is a tool that supports and enhances it. For many of our clients, having a visual representation of a word actually reduces the cognitive load required to produce speech. When a child isn’t struggling to find the motor plan for the word “slide,” they are free to focus on the joy of the activity itself. This is why communication board design must be intuitive—if a child has to hunt for a symbol for more than a few seconds, the “teachable moment” has often passed.

The Shift Toward Universal Design

Historically, we kept communication aids in small, portable folders. But as we move toward Universal Design, we are seeing these tools installed as permanent fixtures in parks. This shift tells our families: “We didn’t just build a park for some kids; we built it for yours, too.”

Universal Design is a framework that suggests environments should be usable by all people to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. By integrating communication board design into the initial blueprint of a park, we move away from “special needs” being an afterthought and toward “human needs” being the primary focus. It turns a segregated experience into a shared one.

Why do Communication Boards Matter in Public Spaces?

As clinicians, we look at the playground as a “naturalistic environment” for language growth. Here is why inclusive playground design is so impactful:

  • Modeling in the Wild: For a child to learn AAC, they need to see others use it. When a parent points to “go” while pushing the swing, they are modeling language in real-time.
  • Reducing “Behavior” via Expression: We often say “behavior is communication.” When a child has a functional way to say “help” or “all done,” the frustration that leads to meltdowns often melts away.
  • Normalizing Neurodiversity: When every child in the neighborhood sees a communication board, AAC becomes “normal” rather than “different.” It builds a community of empathy from the ground up.

Furthermore, these boards serve as a safety net. Imagine a child who wanders or “elopes” (a common safety concern in the neurodivergent community). If that child is non-speaking and becomes separated from their caregiver, a communication board at the park entrance can be a literal lifesaver, allowing the child to point to symbols like “lost” or “mom” to communicate with a helping adult. This safety aspect is a frequently overlooked but vital component of communication board design in public infrastructure.

SLP Tips for Effective Communication Board Design

When you start planning, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by materials. Here is what we recommend focusing on to ensure the board is actually functional for the kids.

1. Durability and “Play-Proof” Materials

Since playground communication boards live outdoors, they need to be tough. We look for:

  • High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or heavy-duty aluminum.
  • UV-resistant coatings so the symbols don’t fade (if the “Stop” sign turns white, it loses its meaning!).
  • Non-glare surfaces to help children with visual processing needs see the icons clearly even in midday sun.

From an SLP perspective, the “tactile” feel of the board matters too. Children often “tap” or “slap” the icons with enthusiasm. We need materials that can take the vibration of a heavy-handed “Point” without rattling or degrading. We also have to consider the “cleaning” factor. Playgrounds are high-germ environments; effective communication board design ensures the surface can be wiped down with industrial-grade disinfectants without the ink running or the symbols peeling away.

2. The “Gold Standard” of Layout: Core Vocabulary

The most important part of communication board design is the vocabulary. We advocate for a “Core Vocabulary” approach.

  • Core Words: These are high-frequency words like want, more, stop, go, help, I, you. They should take up the bulk of the board because they can be used in almost any situation.
  • Fringe Words: These are specific nouns like slide, swing, ball, or snack.
  • Consistency: Symbols should be placed where a child can reach them—ideally with the most used icons at chest height for a child or someone in a wheelchair.

In the world of AAC, “Motor Memory” is everything. Think about how you type on a keyboard without looking—that’s motor memory. If we change the location of the “Help” button every time we design a new board, the child has to relearn the “map.” Professional communication board design respects the user by keeping core words in consistent, predictable grids. This allows a child to become a “fast” communicator, which is essential when they are trying to keep up with the fast-paced world of playground play.

Can I Customize My Board for My Community?

Yes! One size rarely fits all in speech therapy, and the same goes for playgrounds.

  • Bilingual Support: If your neighborhood has many Spanish-speaking families, your board should absolutely be bilingual.
  • Site-Specific Symbols: A board at a pool needs different “fringe” vocabulary (like splash or cold) than a board at a wooded nature trail.
  • Symbol Sets: Whether you use Boardmaker (PCS) or SymbolStix, try to match what the local school district uses so the children have a “fluent” transition from school to play.

We also suggest thinking about the “Social-Emotional” vocabulary. Inclusion isn’t just about asking for a turn on the slide; it’s about making friends. Does your communication board design include icons for “My turn,” “Your turn,” “Play with me,” or “I like that”? These are the building blocks of friendship. By including social bridge words, we give neurodivergent children the tools to initiate play, which is one of the hardest—but most rewarding—social skills to master.

Let’s Build a More Inclusive Playground Together

Transitioning from a traditional playground to an inclusive one is a big step, and it’s okay to have questions about the clinical side of the process. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we don’t just “sell” boards—we partner with communities to make sure the communication board design is linguistically sound and culturally relevant.

As you look to “Spring into Action” this month, think about the voices in your community that are currently unheard.

Are you curious about which symbols would work best for your specific park or how to fund an installation? We’d love to chat!

communication board design at Fairview Park Ohio
benefits of communication boards
static communication boards
communication board design

Communication in Spring: Boosting Playground Engagement

communication board design at Fairview Park Ohio

Why Now is the Time for Playground Communication Boards

As the winter frost recedes and the first signs of spring emerge, communities across the country begin to look toward their local parks as hubs of connection, movement, and joy. However, for many families, a trip to the playground can be a reminder of the barriers that still exist for children with complex communication needs. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe that communication is a human right that should never be paused because a child stepped outside.

This guide marks the kickoff of our “Springing into Action” series. Our goal is to provide families, educators, and community leaders with a comprehensive, evidence-based roadmap to implementing playground communication boards before the peak summer season arrives. As Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) with over 60 years of combined experience, we are here to move beyond “marketing fluff” and provide the logical, professional solutions your community deserves.

Understanding the Foundation: What are Playground Communication Boards?

To “spring into action” effectively, we must first define our tools. A playground communication board is a large-scale, durable outdoor sign featuring symbols, icons, and text that allow non-speaking or minimally verbal individuals to communicate. In clinical terms, these are a form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

The Science of AAC Playground Boards

While some might see these as “just signs,” they are actually sophisticated clinical tools designed to facilitate motor planning and language acquisition. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we focus on Core Vocabulary—the set of words that make up approximately 80% of our daily communication. By placing these symbols (such as “more,” “want,” “help,” and “go”) in a functional play environment, we provide children with the building blocks of expression.

Why “Light-Tech” Works Outdoors

Unlike high-tech speech-generating devices (tablets), AAC playground boards are “light-tech.” They don’t require batteries, they don’t break when dropped, and they are visible to everyone in the area. This creates a “Universal Design” environment where communication is modeled for everyone, not just the child with a diagnosis.

The Case for Inclusion: Why Your Park Needs One Now

As we approach the warmer months, the “why” becomes urgent. Inclusion isn’t just about physical access (ramps and rubber surfacing); it’s about social-emotional access.

Breaking the Silence of the Playground

For a child who cannot use their voice to say “My turn” or “I’m scared,” the playground can be a frustrating place. Consequently, we often see “behaviors” that are actually just unmet communication attempts. Communication boards for parks offer a logical alternative, allowing a child to point to a symbol to express a thought immediately.

Clinical Roots and Evidence-Based Practice

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we don’t use “revolutionary” or “unbelievable” adjectives to sell our boards. Instead, we rely on our Clinical Roots. Research in our field consistently shows that visual supports reduce frustration and increase peer-to-peer engagement. When a neurotypical peer sees a communication board, they are often the first to use it to invite a non-verbal friend to play.

Key Differentiators: The RLS Standard

Not all boards are created equal. When you are advocating for inclusive playground signage, it is important to understand the technical standards that ensure long-term success.

Symbol Consistency: SymbolStix vs. Boardmaker/PCS

A child’s “voice” shouldn’t change when they leave the classroom. One of our non-negotiables is offering both SymbolStix and Boardmaker/PCS. This allows a community to match the symbol system already used in their local school district, ensuring the child doesn’t have to learn a new “language” just to play.

communication symbol system - SymbolStix
SymbolStix icon for "slide"
communication symbol system
Boardmaker icon for "slide"

100% Customization and Donor Support

Getting a board funded is often the biggest hurdle. To help, we offer 100% customization, which includes adding agency or donor logos at no additional cost. This is a key differentiator from our competitors and allows local businesses or rotary clubs to see their contribution permanently recognized in the community.

Integrated Education via QR Codes

The board itself is only half the battle; the caregivers need to know how to use it. Every board we produce features a QR code that links to a “how-to” modeling video. This provides immediate, professional SLP support to a parent standing in the park, right when they need it most.

AAC social script
Design consultation with certified SLP

People Also Ask: Addressing Community Concerns

“Who actually benefits from these boards?”

While primarily designed for children with Autism, Down Syndrome, or Cerebral Palsy, outdoor AAC boards help a much wider demographic. This includes toddlers who are “late talkers,” English Language Learners who may not know the specific word for “swing,” and even adults with aphasia or other communication disorders.

“Are they durable enough for our weather?”

We have a proven track record in 24 states, from the coastal humidity of Rhode Island to the intense heat of California. Our boards are designed to be “park-tough,” standing up to UV rays, rain, and the general wear-and-tear of a busy public space.

“How do we start the process?”

“Springing into action” starts with advocacy. We recommend contacting your local Parks and Recreation department or Town Council. You can approach them as a peer, using the evidence-based benefits of communication access to make your case.

 

Implementation Strategy: How to “Spring” into Action

If you want a board installed by summer, the time to start is now. Here is a professional checklist to guide your community:

  1. Site Selection: Choose a location that is central and visible, such as near the main play structure or the park entrance.
  2. Symbol Alignment: Talk to local school SLPs to see which symbol set (SymbolStix or Boardmaker) is most common in your area.
  3. Funding and Sponsorship: Identify local donors. Remember, we add their logos for free to help you secure that partnership.
  4. Order and Install: Once the design is finalized, our team at Resources at Lakeshore Speech handles the production to our high clinical standards

A Collective Mission for Inclusion

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we view ourselves as your partners in this journey. We aren’t just selling a product; we are providing a tool for inclusion that has been refined through 60+ years of professional practice. We validate the challenges families face, and we are here to provide the logical, professional solution that helps every child find their voice.

As the seasons change, let’s ensure that our playgrounds evolve too. Let’s move away from silent parks and toward communities where every child—regardless of how they communicate—is invited to the conversation.

Ready to get started?

Would you like us to help you advocate for a communication board in your local park?

Whether you need a consultation on symbol systems or a formal proposal to take to your city council, the team at Resources at Lakeshore Speech is ready to help. Contact us today to see how we can bring communication access to your community this spring.

Symbolstix communication board
SymbolStix Icon System
playground communciation board Boardmaker
Boardmaker Icon System

Joyful Connections: Communication on Valentine’s Day

expressions of love on Valentine's day

Love Without Limits: Meaningful Communication on Valentine’s Day Through Connection and Inclusion

Valentine’s Day is a season that naturally turns our hearts toward connection, friendship, and the joy of telling someone they matter. For many of us, it involves the rustle of paper cards, the sweetness of a candy heart, and the warmth of a simple “I like you.” At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe that every individual has a beautiful message to share, but we also know that for some children, the traditional ways of speaking those messages can be a challenge.

Ensuring successful communication on Valentine’s Day isn’t just about the words spoken; it’s about opening doors so that every child—regardless of their verbal abilities—can participate in the magic of the holiday. Whether your child is navigating autism, a speech delay or simply needs a little extra visual support, communication boards serve as a gentle bridge to connection. In this post, we’ll explore how these tools create a more inclusive world where every “expression of love” is heard and celebrated.

What Are Communication Boards? A Tool for Every Heart

If you are new to the world of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), you might wonder exactly how a board helps. Simply put, a communication board is a collection of symbols, pictures, or words that a child can point to in order to express a thought. As we often discuss in our community guides, these boards provide a “visual anchor” for language.

When we focus on communication on Valentine’s Day, we use these boards to lower the pressure. Holidays can be overwhelming! Between the noise of classroom parties and the social expectations of card exchanges, a child’s verbal speech might “take a break” due to sensory overload. A communication board remains a steady, reliable tool. It allows a child to point to a picture of a “heart,” a “friend,” or the word “more” to stay engaged without the stress of finding the right sounds in a busy moment.

Expressions of Love: Beyond the Spoken Word

In one of our favorite past blog posts, Expressions of Love, we shared a truth that sits at the core of our practice: expression cannot be limited to talking. Love comes in a variety of shapes, colors, and sounds.

When we prioritize communication on Valentine’s Day, we are validating all the different ways children show they care. Here are some of the beautiful ways children can express themselves using tools and strategies we love:

  • The Power of Sign: Teaching a child the sign for “I love you” is a portable, silent, and deeply personal way to connect.
  • Speech Bubble Photos: As shared in our Expressions of Love post, having a child hold a heart or a speech bubble with a written message for a photo is a wonderful way to send a Valentine to a grandparent or friend.
  • Lip Print Art: Using lipstick or chapstick to make “kisses” on paper isn’t just adorable—it’s also a great oral motor exercise that supports the physical side of speech development!

By expanding our definition of “talking,” we ensure that no child is left out of the celebration.

Enhancing Social Interaction and Communication on Valentine’s Day

The social landscape of mid-February is filled with opportunities for growth. For educators and parents, the goal is often to help a child move from being a “bystander” to a “participant.” Utilizing specialized tools for Communication on Valentine’s Day makes this transition smoother.

Creating a Language-Rich Environment

Whether you are using a portable board from our clinic resources or a large-scale playground board, the key is to model the language. If you are handing out valentines, point to the “give” or “friend” symbol on the board as you do it. This shows the child that the board is a real, living part of how we interact. As we noted in our recent post about Enhancing Holiday Joy, providing these visual scaffolds during festivities reduces frustration and invites the child into the heart of the activity.

Supporting Educators in Building Inclusive Classrooms

Educators have the incredible task of making sure every student feels like they belong. When a teacher integrates communication on Valentine’s Day into their classroom, they are teaching empathy to the entire class.

We recommend setting up “Communication Stations” near Valentine’s Day mailboxes. These stations can feature:

  • Core vocabulary boards with words like “like,” “you,” “me,” and “happy.”
  • Visual schedules that show the steps of the Valentine’s party.
  • “Choice boards” for selecting which treats or crafts a student prefers.

Create easy-to-clean boards that can handle the sticky fingers and high energy of a school party to ensure that the tool is always ready when the child has something to say.

Empowering Families to Communicate at Home

Some of the most meaningful moments happen at the kitchen table or during a bedtime routine. To keep the momentum of communication on Valentine’s Day going, families can practice “Expressions of Love” in low-stress environments.

Try creating a “Family Code” or a special ritual. As suggested in our Expressions of Love blog, you might use a Valentine’s-themed communication board as part of your bedtime routine, allowing your child to pick a “sweet dream” symbol or point to “I love you” before they go to sleep. Practice doesn’t have to be a chore; when it’s wrapped in the love of a family tradition, it becomes a permanent part of the child’s communication toolkit.

Building Inclusive Communities and Public Spaces

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are passionate about taking communication supports out of the clinic and into the world. When we see communication on Valentine’s Day being supported in libraries, parks and local businesses, we know we are moving toward a more compassionate community.

Inclusion in Every Season

Whether it is a playground communication board that helps a child find a playmate in February or a pool board for the summer, these tools tell families: “You are welcome here. Your child’s voice is heard here.” Community leaders who install these boards are laying the foundation for true inclusion, ensuring that every public space is accessible to those who communicate differently.

Selecting the Right Tools for Your Journey

Choosing the right way to support communication on Valentine’s Day depends on your child’s unique needs. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we offer a variety of resources designed to fit different environments:

  • Clinic and Therapy Boards: Perfect for focused practice sessions.
  • Playground and Community Boards: Large, weather-resistant displays that foster peer-to-peer interaction.
  • Emotional Balance Boards: Helpful for checking in on how a child is feeling during the excitement of a holiday.

Every resource we provide is rooted in the belief that communication is a human right. When a child has the tool they need, they can finally let the world hear their message “loud and clear”.

A Season of Growth and Connection

The research behind AAC is clear: providing children with multiple ways to communicate—through signs, pictures, and boards—actually supports their long-term language development. It gives them the “wins” they need to stay motivated. When a child uses a board to successfully navigate communication on Valentine’s Day, they aren’t just getting a piece of candy; they are gaining the confidence that comes from being understood.

We’ve seen it time and again a child who was once frustrated by their inability to share a thought begins to blossom when they realize they have a “voice” on their board. This Valentine’s Day, we invite you to join us in celebrating those breakthroughs.

Final Thoughts: Let Love Lead the Way

As we celebrate this month of affection, let’s remember that the most loving thing we can do is listen. communication on Valentine’s Day is about more than just a holiday; it’s a reminder that every day is an opportunity to help someone express their heart.

Whether you are a parent, a teacher or a community member, your support of inclusive communication makes a difference. You are helping to build a world where “I love you” can be spoken, signed, or pointed to—and where every version is equally beautiful.

Communication boards are more than just boards; they are tools of empowerment. They allow for meaningful communication on Valentine’s Day by providing a visual path for children to share their feelings, interact with friends, and participate in traditions. 

We invite you to explore the resources and stories on our blog for more inspiration. From parent guides to community success stories, we are here to walk this journey with you.

How can we help you today?

If you’re looking for the perfect tool to support your child’s voice, or if you’re a community leader ready to make your park more inclusive, reach out to us.

Click here to request a free quote or learn more about our communication boards.

Let’s work together to give everyone a way to express their love. Happy Valentine’s Day!

How to Use and Model Social Skill Filters
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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 AAC awareness
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.

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