Tag: support for special needs

Master Emotional Regulation: Heavy-Duty AAC Visual Boards

emotional regulation balance communication board

Key Takeaways

Speech Fails Under Stress: During a meltdown or sensory crisis, the brain’s speech production center (Broca’s area) experiences a drop in activity. Emotional regulation / balance boards act as a permanent anchor when spoken words fail.
Action-Oriented Design: True emotional regulation occurs when a child can identify a feeling and instantly select an SLP-curated coping mechanism (e.g., taking a break, deep breathing) from the same visual panel.
Predictability Builds Safety: Using a fixed, standardized layout across multiple environments (home, classroom, playground) reduces cognitive strain and helps individuals locate tools quickly during crises.
Material Matters for Longevity: Choosing the right build—weatherproof Aluminum Alloy for public parks/sensory rooms or interactive Magnetic or Coroplast for desks—ensures the tool survives high-impact use.
Proactive over Reactive: Emotional regulation / balance communication boards should be used for daily check-ins and modeling during calm routines (Aided Language Input) so individuals are fluent with the tool before dysregulation happens.
Fosters Lifelong Autonomy: Rather than compliance-driven behavior management, these emotional regulation / balance boards support genuine social-emotional learning and protect the user’s personal agency.

Empowering Non-Verbal Expression in Moments of Crisis

Every parent, educator, and therapist knows the profound feeling of helplessness that arises when a child or adult slips into a state of total emotional dysregulation. When big feelings swell into an intense, overwhelming meltdown, verbal communication often vanishes completely. In these high-stress moments, demanding that an individual “use their words” is not simply ineffective; it is neurologically impossible.

When the brain enters a fight-or-flight state, the Broca’s area—the neurological engine responsible for speech production—experiences a significant drop in activity. This is where the practice of emotional regulation or balance must shift from verbal demands to visual support. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we develop clinical, heavy-duty visual tools designed specifically to bridge this exact communication gap.

By implementing an emotional regulation / balance communication board, families, schools, and community leaders can provide a reliable, non-verbal roadmap for emotional navigation. These boards give individuals a clear, stress-free path to identify their feelings and select an actionable coping mechanism without requiring verbal expression. This foundational tool shifts caregiving approaches from reactive management to proactive empowerment.

What is an Emotional Regulation / Balance Communication Board?

An emotional regulation / balance communication board is a specialized, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tool engineered to help neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals recognize, organize, and express their internal states. Unlike a standard “feelings chart” that merely lists emotions, these advanced communication boards are dual-purpose engines. They establish structural connections between what an individual is feeling and what they can do to safely process that feeling.

The Anatomy of an Emotional Balance Design

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, our SLP-designed layouts utilize industry-standard symbol systems, including Boardmaker© and SymbolStix©. These symbols are organized using validated linguistic frameworks, such as the Modified Fitzgerald or Gossens’ color-coding configurations. By structuring vocabulary into explicit, predictable color bands, users can rapidly scan and pinpoint their internal status under intense cognitive strain.

To maximize functional use, these layouts categorize emotional states into clear, color-coded tiers of alertness:

Low States of Alertness (Blue): Depicts feelings such as sad, tired, sick, or bored. The paired strategies focus on safe, low-energy reactivation (e.g., getting a drink of water, asking for a break, or speaking to a trusted person).
Optimal Learning States (Green): Depicts feelings such as happy, calm, or focused. This zone represents ideal emotional balance, where an individual is mentally prepared to follow instructions, collaborate, and socialize.
Elevated States of Alertness (Yellow): Depicts feelings such as frustrated, anxious, or nervous. Strategies focus on immediate, mid-level de-escalation tactics (e.g., counting to 10, deep breathing exercises, or using a sensory tool).
Highly Heightened States of Alertness (Red): Depicts feelings such as angry, terrified, or jealous. Actionable options emphasize safety and protective containment (e.g., requesting immediate physical space, taking a structured walk, or relocating to a designated sensory zone).

The Science of Visual Anchors in Social-Emotional Learning

The integration of visual communication boards is deeply rooted in evidence-based practice (EBP) and backed by guidelines from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Research within cognitive science demonstrates that visual supports markedly reduce cognitive load during periods of physiological dysregulation.

Alleviating Cognitive Load Through AAC

When an individual is calm, their prefrontal cortex processes language seamlessly. However, sensory overload or emotional distress floods the nervous system with cortisol and adrenaline, making temporary auditory processing deficits common.

Furthermore, spoken language is transient—once a word is said, it vanishes. For a dysregulated student, tracking fleeting speech can worsen their anxiety. In contrast, an emotional regulation / balance board serves as a permanent, static visual anchor. The symbol remains constant, giving the individual’s brain the necessary time to look, process, and make a functional selection at their own pace.

Advancing Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

True social-emotional learning involves more than behaving quietly; it requires developing genuine emotional literacy. When children regularly use a dedicated communication board, they are not merely signaling distress; they are actively mapping abstract internal sensations to concrete, 2D visual icons.

Consequently, this system directly supports the development of executive functioning skills. Over time, consistent use teaches individuals that internal emotional tension can be named, externalized, and managed with structured strategies, protecting their personal autonomy.

Material Engineering: Coroplast vs. Aluminum Alloy

A tool can only provide effective clinical support if it remains accessible in the environments where dysregulation actually occurs. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we fabricate our boards in multiple physical formats to ensure they survive the unique demands of homes, schools, clinics, and community spaces.

1. Heavy-Duty Aluminum Alloy Boards

For public spaces, outdoor therapeutic playgrounds, inclusive school hallways, and high-traffic clinic rooms, our Aluminum Alloy (Alumalite) boards provide maximum longevity. These commercial-grade boards are scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, and entirely weatherproof. They are engineered to endure intense environmental demands—such as heavy rain, snow, direct summer sunlight, and pool chemicals—without warping, fading, or peeling.

2. Lightweight Coroplast Boards

When portability and flexibility are prioritized, our high-quality Coroplast (corrugated plastic) boards offer an excellent, lightweight alternative. These boards are ideal for inside classroom doors, individual student desks, or dedicated indoor calm-down corners.

In addition to our standard flat layouts, we offer specialized magnet-print formats (18″x24″). These allow for an interactive, tactile experience where individuals can physically move magnetic indicators to declare their current emotional state and choose their corresponding coping strategy.

Strategic Placement: Where Do You Install Emotional Regulation Boards?

To maximize the therapeutic benefit of an emotional regulation / balance system, boards should be positioned preemptively. Placing them strategically allows individuals to access vital visual supports before reaching a state of total emotional exhaustion or behavioral crisis.

The Sensory Room or Dedicated “Reset Space”

This is the most common and effective interior placement. By mounting an aluminum or interactive magnetic board at eye level within a sensory room or quiet corner, you establish an explicit sanctuary for co-regulation / balance. The moment a dysregulated individual enters the space, the visual board provides immediate direction, helping them transition out of distress without requiring overwhelming verbal interactions.

The Classroom or Facility Doorway

Transitions between different environments—such as moving from a loud, chaotic hallway into a quiet classroom—frequently trigger stress for neurodivergent individuals. Placing an emotional regulation / balance board near major entryways allows for quick emotional check-ins. Students can naturally point to their current state as they cross the threshold, giving teachers immediate, actionable insight into each student’s readiness to learn before instruction even begins.

Public Parks, Playgrounds, and Recreational Complexes

Inclusive communities recognize that emotional dysregulation can happen anywhere, particularly in sensory-heavy environments like public parks. Installing our weatherproof, UV-resistant aluminum alloy boards next to swings, splash pads, or sports courts ensures that children have constant access to functional communication when physical fatigue or social frustration runs high.

Clinical FAQs: Deep Dive into Emotional Literacy

How do emotional regulation / balance boards differ from standard feelings charts?

Most standard classroom feelings charts only focus on identification, prompting a user to indicate if they are “happy,” “sad,” or “mad.” Our clinical emotional regulation / balance boards are structured to focus heavily on the critical question: “What’s next?” Instead of leaving an individual stuck in a heightened emotional state, our boards pair each feeling icon directly with actionable, SLP-curated coping strategies. This layout shifts the tool’s focus from mere emotional observation to functional, active behavior modification and self-soothing.

Can these boards be used for neurotypical individuals?

Yes. Intense emotional overstimulation, physical exhaustion, and environmental stress affect all human brains, regardless of neurotype. While these boards provide critical access for non-verbal or minimally verbal individuals, neurotypical children and adults also benefit from visual supports during high-stress moments. Reducing the need for verbal expression helps anyone navigate intense emotional waves with greater ease and lower anxiety.

Why is a fixed layout preferred over a completely custom board?

To provide the highest quality and fastest delivery times, our boards feature a standardized, SLP-curated layout and core vocabulary set. In clinical practice, consistency builds safety.

When an individual encounters the exact same symbols, color schemes, and structural layout across multiple environments—such as their speech therapy room, their general education classroom, and their local public park—it reduces their cognitive processing demands. This structural predictability helps them quickly locate and use the communication tools they need during times of crisis.

Implementation Strategies for Caregivers and Educators

Simply mounting an emotional regulation / balance board on a wall is not enough to ensure its success; it must be actively integrated into daily routines through supportive modeling.

1. The Power of Proactive Modeling

The most reliable way to teach visual communication skills is a technique known as Aided Language Input or modeling. Caregivers and educators should frequently point to symbols on the communication board during daily, low-stress routines while speaking out loud.

For example, during a regular conversation, a teacher might say, “I am feeling so focused today, so I am ready to learn,” while physically pointing to the corresponding icons on the board. This practice demonstrates to users how the board works during calm moments, ensuring they know how to navigate it when an emotional crisis occurs.

2. Conducting Daily Check-Ins

Incorporate the communication board into structured, predictable parts of the day, such as morning meetings, dinner table conversations, or bedtime routines. Asking an individual to share their current state during calm periods builds their baseline emotional literacy and reinforces the habit of emotional self-reflection.

3. Integrating the Board into Positive Reinforcement

When an individual successfully uses the board during a challenging moment—such as pointing to the frustrated icon and selecting take deep breaths—it is vital to validate and reinforce that choice.

Acknowledge their effort by saying, “I see you are feeling frustrated, and I love that you showed me on your board. Let’s take those deep breaths together.” This positive response reinforces the effectiveness of the board, showing the user that visual communication directly results in their needs being understood and respected.

Cultivating Long-Term Inclusion and Autonomy

Integrating an emotional regulation / balance communication board into a home, school, or community center is a powerful step toward creating a truly inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming environment. These tools do not simply manage behavior; they fundamentally change how we support individuals through emotional vulnerability.

By providing a reliable, non-verbal outlet for complex feelings, you protect an individual’s personal autonomy and foster lasting self-worth. Users learn that their emotional needs are valid, their voice is always accessible, and they have the power to actively navigate toward emotional balance.

Secure Your SLP-Designed Communication Board Today

Are you ready to transform your classroom, clinical practice, home, or community space into a supportive environment for emotional development? The specialized visual tools from Resources at Lakeshore Speech provide the clinical structure, durability, and clarity needed to support lasting emotional growth.

Our team of Speech-Language Pathologists is ready to help you select the ideal layout, symbol system (Boardmaker© or SymbolStix©), and durable materials for your specific environment.

For Schools & Districts: Create consistent, supportive environments across classrooms, reset spaces, and playgrounds.
For Private Clinics & Hospitals: Enhance your therapeutic space with heavy-duty, clinically validated visual supports.
For Families & Advocates: Bring structured, stress-free communication tools directly into your daily home routines.

Take action today. Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech to request your free quote and begin the process of ordering your specialized communication boards. Let’s build a world where every individual has the tools they need to feel safe, understood, and emotionally balanced.

The Monumental Benefits of Communication Boards for Children

Quick Facts & Key Takeaways – Benefits of Communication Boards

Total Inclusivity: Outdoor communication boards bridge the gap between physical accessibility and social inclusion on public playgrounds, pools, and splash parks.
The “Device Burdens” Solution: Traditional high-tech speech tablets (AAC systems) risk overheating in the sun, experiencing water damage at splash pads, or getting lost during active play. Large-scale, permanent weather-proof boards completely remove this obstacle.
Peer-to-Peer Bridges: By using a shared symbol space, neurotypical and neurodivergent children interact directly, dropping social barriers and mitigating the loneliness often felt by kids with limited speech.
Universal Learning Tool: In addition to assisting children with neurodivergent needs, these community installations support toddlers developing language, late talkers, and multilingual families navigating new languages.

How Outdoor Communication Boards Give Every Child a Voice

Imagine a vibrant local park on a sunny Saturday. Children are sprinting toward the swings, climbing up the slide, and playing a noisy game of tag. But for a child who is non-verbal, has autism, or experiences a significant language delay, this bustling environment can present unique challenges. They may want to ask for a turn or tell a peer “That’s cool!”, but the verbal words might not be accessible in that high-energy moment.

Now, imagine you want to join that game of tag. You know exactly what you want to say: “Can I play too?” But your vocal muscles or neurological pathways refuse to coordinate. You try to catch a peer’s eye, but they run past, caught up in the fast-paced auditory world around them. You have a personal speech-generating device, but it is safely tucked away in your parent’s backpack across the park because it is too heavy to carry while climbing, or because your family is terrified it will get wet near the pool.

For millions of minimally verbal or non-speaking children, this heartbreaking sense of isolation is a daily reality.

This is where playground communication boards serve as a vital tool. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we view these boards not just as equipment, but as an essential component of a truly inclusive environment. By providing a visual language system, we can ensure that “play for all” includes every child’s voice. When we look at how communities can foster truly accessible environments, understanding how communication boards benefit children is the first step toward transforming public recreation spaces into hubs of unconditional belonging.

What Are Playground Communication Boards?

At their core, playground communication boards are large, durable signs installed in public play areas. They feature a grid of symbols, pictures, and words that represent common playground activities, needs, and social interactions. These boards are a functional form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

By pointing to a symbol for “swing” or “stop,” a child can communicate effectively without needing to rely on verbal speech. These AAC playground boards act as a bridge for children who are non-verbal, minimally verbal, or even those who simply find the sensory environment of a park too overwhelming to speak clearly. They are a reliable, permanent “voice” available to anyone in the play area, providing a low-tech backup for when a child might not have their personal speech device handy.

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we view these boards not just as equipment, but as an essential component of a truly inclusive environment. By providing a visual language system, we can ensure that “play for all” includes every child’s voice.

Why Public Spaces Require a Shift in How We View Accessibility

For years, community accessibility discussions centered almost entirely on physical infrastructure. Cities built poured-in-place rubber surfacing, installed wheelchair-accessible ramps, and integrated adaptive swing sets. While these engineering steps are vital, true play requires more than just getting a child’s body onto a playground structure—it requires connecting their mind and voice to the children around them.

Research indicates that children who experience complex communication challenges encounter deep social barriers on public playgrounds that go far beyond basic physical access (Therrien et al., 2022). Unstructured environments like neighborhood parks, community pools, and public splash pads are incredibly high-stimulation, fast-paced environments. In these settings, verbal speech moves quickly. If a child cannot rapidly express a need, share an idea, or establish a boundary, they are frequently excluded from cooperative play groups.

Furthermore, traditional Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems—such as high-tech dedicated speech tablets or personal communication binders—are highly vulnerable to the elements (Derse, 2008). A family spending an afternoon at a neighborhood splash park cannot easily risk exposing an expensive electronic device to water, sand, heat, or heavy impacts. Consequently, many children are left entirely “voiceless” during the exact hours of the day when they should be experiencing absolute freedom and play. Large, permanently anchored AAC communication boards solve this exact problem by embedding functional, universal language directly into the recreational environment.

What Are the Benefits of Communication Boards for Children?

When looking at child development, we must address a core question: What are the benefits of communication boards for children? From a speech-language pathology perspective, these tools do far more than replace spoken words. They fundamentally alter how a child interacts with their environment, processes information, and builds relationships with the world around them.

1. Reducing Communicative Frustration and Cognitive Load

When a child cannot express their thoughts, anxiety and frustration skyrocket. This often leads to behavioral meltdowns. One of the primary benefits of communication boards for children is that they lower the cognitive load required to speak. In high-energy public spaces, coming up with the motor plans for speech can be exhausting. Visual boards give children an instant, stress-free path to express exactly what they need without the pressure of vocalization.

2. Supporting Receptive and Expressive Language Growth

Many individuals mistakenly believe these tools slow down speech development. However, clinical evidence shows the exact opposite. Visual aids provide a stable, permanent anchor for spoken language. While a spoken word disappears the moment it is muttered, a picture symbol remains static. This gives the child crucial time to process the word’s meaning. By pairing visual icons with spoken words, children build stronger vocabulary connections, boosting both their receptive understanding and their expressive output.

3. Fostering Autonomy and Self-Advocacy

True independence means having control over your own choices. Public communication boards allow children to choose their own activities, direct their own play, and set personal boundaries. Instead of relying on a parent or caregiver to guess what they want, a child can confidently walk up to a board and state their mind. This early experience with self-advocacy builds lifelong confidence.

4. Supporting Visual Learners

Many children with complex communication needs are visual learners. In a clinical setting, we often see that visual supports reduce frustration and lower cognitive load. Communication boards for parks provide a static reference point. Unlike spoken words, which are fleeting, a symbol on a board remains visible, allowing a child the time they need to process information and express a thought at their own pace.

5. Encouraging Peer Connections

These boards are not exclusively for children with disabilities. They serve as a universal language for the entire playground. When neurotypical children see a peer using the board, it often sparks curiosity and social modeling. This naturally facilitates interaction, teaching children from a young age that there are many valid ways to communicate and connect with others.

The Core Benefits of Communication Boards for Children in Public Parks

When cities and community leaders install permanent communication panels in recreational spaces, they change the entire dynamic of public play. Let’s break down the distinct clinical, emotional, and social advantages of these incredible community tools.

1. Eliminating the “Device Burden” and Protecting Speech Tools

As early intervention and school-based speech-language pathologists have long noted, carrying an external communication book or a dedicated electronic tablet during vigorous physical play is highly burdensome for a child (Derse, 2008). If a child has to hold a heavy device while climbing a ladder or traversing monkey bars, their safety is compromised. If they leave the device with a caregiver on a park bench, they lose their voice the moment they step onto the play equipment.

Permanent outdoor panels ensure that language is permanently present, accessible, and impervious to the elements. Whether a child is dripping wet at a municipal pool or covered in woodchips at a playground, they can simply walk up to the panel and point to “Go,” “Stop,” “More,” or “Water” to make their desires instantly known.

2. Equalizing the Social Playing Field

The magic of an outdoor communication panel lies in its status as a shared tool. It is not an isolated piece of medical equipment attached to a single child; it is an interactive fixture of the park available to everyone.

When neurotypical children see the board, they naturally become curious. They begin using the symbols to communicate with one another or to model language for their peers. This common visual interface reduces the “burden of initiation” on the neurodivergent child. Instead of trying to force a verbal greeting or figure out how to bridge a social gap, a child can walk up to the board, point to the symbol for “Play,” and point to the image of the slides. The communication barrier evaporates, paving the way for organic peer-to-peer relationships.

3. Immediate Access to Safety and Boundary Language

High-stimulation environments like splash pads and busy parks require rapid self-regulation and safety communication. If a child is feeling overwhelmed, hot, or frightened, they need to communicate that state instantly to prevent a sensory meltdown or a dangerous situation. Outdoor boards feature clearly visible, highly intuitive core vocabulary symbols for concepts like “Stop,” “Help,” “Hot,” “Cold,” “Hurt,” or “All Done.” This grants children the immediate power to advocate for their physical needs and personal boundaries in real-time, giving caregivers peace of mind.

Who Benefits from Outdoor AAC Boards?

The impact of outdoor AAC boards extends across a diverse range of park visitors. Based on our clinical experience at Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we see these tools benefiting a wide variety of users:

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Visual symbols help navigate social transitions and reduce the stress of environmental changes.
Late Talkers and Toddlers: Even typically developing toddlers who are still building their vocabulary can use the board to express needs, often reducing the frustration common in early childhood.
Children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech: For those who struggle with the motor planning required for speech, the board provides an immediate functional outlet.
English Language Learners (ELL): Symbols are a universal bridge. A child who does not yet speak the local language can still engage with peers through visual icons.
The “Device-Free” Moment: Personal high-tech AAC devices can be fragile or hard to see in the sun. A board allows a child to leave their expensive tech with a caregiver while they climb and play freely.

Design and Functionality: A Speech-Language Perspective

Effective playground communication boards require a thoughtful design rooted in linguistic principles. It isn’t just about putting pictures on a sign; it’s about how those symbols facilitate genuine language development.

Symbol System Consistency

Consistency is one of the most important factors in language learning. To support this, Resources at Lakeshore Speech offers both SymbolStix and Boardmaker/PCS (Picture Communication Symbols) sets. These are the two most common systems used in schools and on personal speech devices. Providing this choice allows communities to align their park signage with what local students are already learning in the classroom, making the tool much more intuitive.

Core vs. Fringe Vocabulary

A functional board balances “Core Vocabulary”—high-frequency words like go, help, stop, more, and me—with “Fringe Vocabulary”—specific nouns like slide, ball, or sandbox. This allows a child to move beyond simple labeling and begin constructing functional phrases like “more swing” or “I go.”

Durability and Customization

Because these are communication boards for parks, they must withstand heavy use and the elements. We utilize high-grade aluminum composite materials that do not rust or warp. Furthermore, we believe these boards should reflect the community. Unlike many providers, Resources at Lakeshore Speech provides 100% customization, including adding agency or donor logos at no additional cost. This helps foster a sense of community ownership and acknowledges the sponsors who make these projects possible.

Improving Accessibility with Integrated Technology

Even the best tool is only effective if people feel confident using it. To support parents and caregivers, every board provided by Resources at Lakeshore Speech includes a specialized QR code.

When scanned, this code links directly to an educational video. This resource demonstrates how to “model” language on the board in real-time. This immediate support helps adults feel more comfortable with AAC, ensuring the board becomes an active part of the playground experience rather than a static fixture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Communication Boards

As public interest in universal design grows, parents, town council members, and park directors frequently reach out to us with questions. Below are the most common inquiries we address regarding the implementation and benefits of communication boards for children.

Do communication boards stop a child from learning how to talk?

This is the single most common concern we hear from families, and the scientific answer is an absolute, definitive NO. Decades of speech-language pathology research and official statements from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) demonstrate that augmentative and alternative communication tools support and encourage verbal language development rather than hindering it.

Visual symbols provide a concrete cognitive anchor for fleeting acoustic spoken words. When a child points to a symbol while an adult says the word aloud, it reinforces language comprehension and reduces the immense cognitive pressure of speech production. Often, as comprehension increases through visual aids, verbal attempts follow close behind.

How do cities select the right vocabulary symbols for an outdoor park board?

Selecting vocabulary is a careful clinical science. To build true topical authority and clinical effectiveness, boards must balance Core Vocabulary and Fringe Vocabulary.

Core Vocabulary (80% of what we say): High-frequency words that can be used across multiple contexts (e.g., more, stop, go, look, want, help, I, you, it). These are typically placed in a consistent grid layout on the left and center of the board to assist with motor planning.
Fringe Vocabulary (20% of what we say): Specific nouns and context-dependent words unique to that environment (e.g., swing, water, slide, towel, ladder, splash). These are generally grouped by category along the edges or right-hand side.

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, our specialists collaborate directly with city planners and manufacturers to ensure that symbol selection meets ASHA’s highest standards of cultural responsiveness and clinical validity.

Successful Implementations Nationwide

The move toward more accessible play is a national movement. Resources at Lakeshore Speech has been proud to assist various communities in implementing these tools. Successful installations have already taken place in:

- Lowell, MA
- Rocky River, OH
- Fairview, OH
- Middletown, RI
- Jackson County, AL
- Lackawanna, NY

North Olmsted, OH

Feedback from these communities often highlights how the boards have opened up new social opportunities for children who previously felt like observers rather than participants.

Conclusion: Empowering Every Child to Have a Voice in the Community

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, our work is grounded in over six decades of combined clinical experience. We understand that a playground is more than just a place to run; it is a place to connect, to learn, and to belong.

Every single child deserves to experience the absolute joy, physical development, and social bonding that comes from unstructured public play. Playground equipment can challenge a child’s muscles, but a shared communication environment stretches their mind, builds empathy, and nurtures lasting peer friendships.

By investing in permanent outdoor communication boards, civic leaders, parent-teacher associations, and parks departments do more than just install a sign—they make a profound statement. They signal to every family that enters the park that their child is seen, valued, and welcome exactly as they are. These installations effectively eliminate the fear of damaged personal electronics, dismantle social isolation, and provide a vibrant, visual bridge that unites children of all abilities.

By integrating AAC playground boards into our public spaces, we are making a statement that every child’s voice is valued. We are proud to serve as a resource for communities looking to make their parks a little more welcoming, one symbol at a time.

Are you ready to spearhead a movement for true communication accessibility in your neighborhood, school district, or city park? Our dedicated team at Resources at Lakeshore Speech is here to guide you through every stage of the journey. From initial symbol mapping and custom vocabulary selection to sourcing ultra-durable, weather-proof manufacturing partners, we provide the expert clinical oversight needed to bring your vision to life.

Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech today

AAC ADA Alternative communication Autism communication communication board communication boards Down Syndrome inclusive playground inclusive pools inclusivity playground communication boards pool communication boards Resources at Lakeshore Speech speech speech therapy support for special needs visual cues

Multi-Lingual Communication Boards: The Ultimate Guide to Inclusive Play

Why Every Park Needs Multi-Lingual Communication Boards

Communication Boards:

Quick Facts & Key Takeaways

What they are: Large, weather-resistant signs featuring symbols and text (icons) that allow non-verbal or multi-lingual children to communicate.
The Goal: To ensure every child, regardless of their native language or physical ability, can ask to “swing,” “slide,” or “play together.”
Evidence-Based: Supported by ASHA standards for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
Community Impact: Enhances social-emotional learning and fosters a sense of belonging for English Language Learners (ELL).

Breaking the Silence on the Playground

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe that communication is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. Yet, for many children, the playground—a place meant for joy and connection—can be a source of profound isolation. Imagine a child who has the perfect idea for a game but lacks the spoken words to invite a peer. Now, imagine that same child is also navigating a world where their home language isn’t the primary one spoken at the park.

This is where communication boards step in as a transformative tool for equity. In our rapidly diversifying communities, the need for inclusive signage has never been greater. By integrating bilingual and multi-lingual AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) systems into public spaces, we are not just installing a sign; we are building a bridge. This guide serves as the definitive resource for families, educators, and community leaders on how “The Multi-Lingual Playground” can change the landscape of childhood forever.

What Are Communication Boards and Why Do They Matter?

To understand the impact of a communication board, one must first understand AAC. In the world of Speech-Language Pathology, AAC encompasses all the ways we share our ideas and feelings without talking.

The “Why” Behind the Board

For a child with Autism, a speech delay or a child who is an English Language Learner (ELL), the playground is a high-sensory environment. The noise, the movement, and the social pressure can make verbalizing thoughts difficult. A communication board provides a static, visual reference. It doesn’t move, it doesn’t disappear after it’s said, and it provides a “common language” for everyone on the mulch.

Furthermore, these communication boards act as a safety net. If a child is hurt or overwhelmed, they can point to “hurt” or “stop” even when their words fail them. By placing these tools in public view, we normalize different ways of communicating, reducing the stigma surrounding disabilities and language differences.

The Power of Multi-Lingual Communication Boards

While a standard English board is a great start, a truly inclusive community looks at its demographic data. In many neighborhoods, Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, or Vietnamese are spoken just as frequently as English.

Supporting ELL and Bilingual Students Outdoors

Dual-language communication boards provide a unique “scaffolding” effect. For a child learning English, seeing the word “Slide” paired with the Spanish word “Tobogán” and a clear icon of a slide provides immediate context. It honors their native language while supporting their acquisition of a second one.

Key Benefits of Dual-Language Boards:

Validation: It tells families, “You belong here, and your language is valued.”
Cognitive Development: Research shows that bilingualism enhances executive function; these communication boards encourage all children to engage with multiple languages.
Social Equity: It levels the playing field, ensuring that a language barrier doesn’t prevent a child from making a friend.

Layout Strategies: Designing for Clarity

A common concern among community leaders is: “Won’t adding a second language make the board too cluttered?” The answer lies in strategic design. As experts in visual communication, we follow specific layouts to ensure the board remains functional.

Stacking English and a Second Language

To maintain “scannability,” we often recommend a consistent hierarchy.

Symbol First: The icon (the picture) should be the largest element, as it is the universal language.
Color Coding: Using the Modified Fitzgerald Key—a system where different parts of speech (verbs, nouns, social words) are color-coded—helps the eye find what it needs quickly.
Language Placement: We typically place the English word at the top and the second language directly beneath it in a slightly different font or color. This consistency allows the brain to “filter” for the language it needs without losing the icon’s meaning.

Translation vs. Localization: Capturing the Spirit of Play

One of the biggest mistakes in creating multilingual boards is relying on “Literal Translation.” A dictionary might tell you one thing, but the “spirit” of the play-word is what matters.

Clinical Insight: In Speech-Language Pathology, we call this “localization.” For example, the English word “cool” might mean “chilly” or “awesome.” On a playground, we want the “awesome” version.

When we design these boards at Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we work with native speakers to ensure that the terms used are the ones children actually use in their culture. We aren’t just translating words; we are translating the experience of joy.

Evidence-Based Practice: What the Research Says

Our recommendations aren’t just based on “good feelings”—they are rooted in science. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) emphasizes that AAC should be provided in a child’s primary language to support identity and family bonding.

The Robustness of Visual Supports

Studies in the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research indicate that visual supports significantly reduce “communication breakdowns.” On a playground, a breakdown often looks like a tantrum or a child withdrawing from play. When a communication board is present, the “success rate” of social interactions increases because both the speaker and the listener have a visual anchor.

Additionally, the “Modeling” method (where a parent or peer points to the icons while speaking) has been proven to accelerate language learning for both neurotypical and neurodivergent children.

Addressing “People Also Ask”

How do I choose which languages to include?

Start with your local school district’s data. Which languages are most represented in their ESL/ELL programs? Most communities opt for a bilingual board (e.g., English/Spanish), but tri-lingual communication boards are becoming increasingly popular in metropolitan hubs.

Where is the best place to install a communication board?

Visibility is key. We recommend placing communication boards near the entrance of the play area and at the “hub” (usually near the swings or the main play structure). It should be at a height accessible to children in wheelchairs and toddlers alike.

Will these boards get vandalized?

Our communication boards are manufactured using high-grade, UV-resistant, and graffiti-proof materials. While no public sign is 100% immune, we find that when a community understands the purpose of the board—helping children—there is a high level of respect for the installation.

Benefits for All: A Lesson in Empathy

Perhaps the most beautiful “side effect” of playground communication boards is how they affect neurotypical, English-speaking children. When a child sees a peer using a board, they don’t see a “disability”; they see a different way to talk.

Children are naturally curious. They will ask, “What is that sign?” This provides a perfect opening for parents and educators to talk about diversity, inclusion, and the many ways people experience the world. It teaches the next generation that if someone can’t speak your language, you find another way to listen.

Empowering Every Voice

The installation of a communication board is a declaration. It says that every child’s voice matters. It says that “inclusion” isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a physical reality built into the fabric of our parks.

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement. We provide the expertise needed to select the right vocabulary, the right layout, and the right languages to serve your specific community. By bringing multilingual AAC to your local playground, you aren’t just changing a park—you’re changing the life of every child who finally feels “heard” for the first time.

Ready to make your playground a truly inclusive space?

Don’t wait for another child to feel left out of the game. Contact us today to learn about our custom communication boards and how we can help you lead the way in community accessibility.

[Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech Today]

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are communication boards only for children with autism?

A: Not at all! They help children with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, speech delays, ELL students, and even toddlers who haven’t found their words yet.

Q: Can these be used in schools?

A: Absolutely. Communication boards are perfect for recess areas, gyms, and cafeterias to support social interaction outside the classroom.

Q: How do we teach kids to use them?

A: It’s simple: Model, Model, Model. When you say, “Let’s go to the swing,” point to the “Swing” icon on the board. Kids will mimic what they see!

Q: Are the boards ADA compliant?

A: When installed at the correct height and on an accessible path, they are a major asset to ADA-compliant playground designs.

Q: How much do they cost?

A: Pricing varies based on size and customization. Reach out to our team for a quote tailored to your community’s needs!

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Empowerment Through Fun: Customizing Communication Boards

Breaking the "One-Size-Fits-All" Mold: A Comprehensive Guide to Customizing Communication Boards

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe that communication is not just a basic human right—it is the foundation of identity. For children and adults who rely on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), the symbols on their screens or boards are more than just tools; they are their voice. However, for too long, the world of AAC has been dominated by generic, “one-size-fits-all” imagery.

When a child looks at their talker or AAC board, they shouldn’t just see a way to ask for a snack; they should see a reflection of themselves, their family, and their culture. This is why customizing communication boards is not just a technical task—it is an act of advocacy. In this definitive resource, we will explore how to weave diversity and inclusivity into the fabric of AAC, ensuring that every user feels seen, heard, and valued.

Why Representation Matters in AAC Communication

Representation isn’t a “luxury” feature in speech therapy; it is a clinical necessity. When we talk about AAC communication, we are talking about a person’s primary means of interacting with the world. If the icons on a board only feature light-skinned, able-bodied “yellow stick figures,” we inadvertently send a message to marginalized users that they are an afterthought.

The Impact of “The Why”

Validation of Identity: Seeing icons that match one’s skin tone or hair texture fosters a sense of belonging.
Reduced Cognitive Load: It is easier for a child to associate a symbol with a real-life concept when that symbol looks like their actual environment.
Increased Engagement: Users are more likely to take ownership of their device when it feels personalized to their life.

Furthermore, inclusivity in design reduces the “othering” of disability. By including diverse representations of ability—such as icons featuring wheelchairs, hearing aids, or service animals—we normalize the lived experiences of the people using these tools.

The Deep Dive: Customizing Communication Boards for Cultural Competence

Creating a truly diverse communication tool requires moving beyond the default settings. To achieve diversity in design, we must look at several key areas: skin tone, ability representation, and culturally relevant symbols.

1. Moving Beyond the “Yellow Stick Figure”

For decades, the standard in the industry was a generic, colorless figure. While intended to be “neutral,” neutrality often defaults to a Western, Eurocentric standard. When customizing communication boards, one of the first steps should be adjusting the skin tone settings. Most modern AAC software (like Proloquo2Go or TouchChat) and symbol systems (like PCS and SymbolStix) now allow for global skin tone shifts or individual icon edits.

2. Ability Representation

True inclusivity means showing that people of all abilities participate in all types of activities. Does the icon for “run” have to be a person on two legs? Could it be someone in a racing wheelchair? Does the icon for “listen” include a cochlear implant? These small details tell the user that their way of moving through the world is valid.

3. Culturally Relevant Symbols

Food, clothing, and holidays are the cornerstones of culture. If a family eats congee for breakfast, a “cereal bowl” icon isn’t helpful. If a child wears a hijab or a patka, their “clothing” icons should reflect that.

Food: Include staples like tamales, naan, or fufu.
Community: Ensure icons for places of worship include mosques, synagogues, and temples, not just churches.
Family: Represent diverse family structures, including multi-generational households or LGBTQ+ parents.

Evidence-Based Practice: What the Research Says

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) emphasizes that “Clinical expertise and the perspectives of the individuals we serve are at the heart of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP).” This includes cultural humility.

Studies in the field of sociolinguistics suggest that language is inseparable from culture. Consequently, when we provide a child with a communication system that ignores their culture, we are providing an incomplete language. Research shows that AAC communication is most effective when it is “socially valid”—meaning it fits the social context of the user’s life. By customizing communication boards, we are adhering to the highest standards of ASHA’s Code of Ethics by providing competent, culturally responsive care.

“To provide services that are truly person-centered, we must recognize that the user is the expert on their own life. Our job as specialists is to provide the canvas that allows their true self to emerge.”

The Design Process: A Collaborative Approach

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we don’t believe in designing in a vacuum. The process of customizing communication boards must involve the “experts”—the parents, caregivers, and community leaders who know the child best.

Step-by-Step Collaborative Design

The Discovery Phase: We meet with the family to discuss their daily routines, traditions, and the specific “vocabulary of home.”
Icon Selection: We present options for symbols. Does the family prefer realistic photos or stylized icons? Which skin tones and features best represent the child?
Community Feedback: For community-based boards (like those in parks or libraries), we consult with local leaders to ensure the icons reflect the specific neighborhood’s demographics.
Implementation and Iteration: We trial the board and make adjustments. Inclusivity is an ongoing journey, not a destination.

Internal and External Resources for Growth

To further your journey in inclusivity and AAC communication, we recommend exploring the following resources:

Read our blog on The Power of Core Vocabulary.
Explore the ASHA Cultural Competence Toolkit for professional guidelines.
heck out NWACS (Northwest Augmentative Communication Society) for community-driven AAC advocacy.

The Technical Side: How to Customize Communication Boards

If you are a parent or educator ready to take the leap, here is a quick guide to the technical side of customizing communication boards.

For Digital AAC Apps:

Search for “Styles”: Most apps have a “Style” or “User” setting where you can change the “Default Skin Tone.”
Use the Camera Tool: Don’t be afraid to take a photo of the child’s actual favorite toy or their actual “Abuela.” Real photos are the gold standard for personalized nouns.
Labeling: Ensure the text label matches the word used at home. If the family says “dinner,” don’t label the icon “supper.”

For High-Contrast/Visual Impairment:

Inclusivity also means designing for different visual needs. For users with CVI (Cortical Visual Impairment), customizing communication boards involves using high-contrast colors (like yellow or red on a black background) and reducing visual clutter.

Conclusion: Empowerment Through Personalization

Designing for diversity is more than just a trend; it is a commitment to the dignity of every individual who uses AAC. When we put in the work of customizing communication boards, we are telling our children that they belong in every space—on the playground, in the classroom, and in the heart of their communities.

Inclusivity in AAC communication breaks down barriers and builds bridges. It allows a child to say “This is me” before they ever say “I want.” At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are dedicated to helping families and educators navigate this process with empathy and expertise.

Ready to give your child a voice that truly represents who they are? Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech today to learn more about our custom communication board services and how we can support your journey toward a more inclusive future. Let’s build a world where every voice is seen.

Summary Checklist for Customizing Communication Boards and Inclusive Design

[ ] Have you adjusted the default skin tones?
[ ] Are there icons representing different types of mobility and medical equipment?
[ ] Does the food and clothing vocabulary reflect the user’s culture?
[ ] Have you consulted with the family about specific religious or community symbols?

By following these steps, you aren’t just creating a board; you are opening a door. Customizing communication boards is the key to unlocking a child’s full potential in a world that finally looks back at them.

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How to Master the AAC Social Script for Unstoppable Fun

Beyond Requesting: Empowering Peer Connection with Playground Communication Boards & an AAC Social Script

Moving from “Requesting” to “Playing”

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we believe that communication is the heartbeat of human connection. For too long, the conversation around Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) has been centered on “functional requesting”—teaching a child to ask for a juice box or a bathroom break. While these are vital life skills, they aren’t the things that make childhood magical. The magic happens on the playground.

When a child stands before a towering slide or a bustling sandbox, they don’t just want to “request” an object; they want to negotiate roles, crack jokes, and engage in the thrill of the chase. This transition from basic needs to social gymnastics requires a specific tool: the AAC social script.

An AAC social script is a pre-planned sequence of words or symbols that helps a user navigate a specific social interaction. By using these scripts on large-scale communication boards—those durable, weather-proof signs you see in inclusive parks—we bridge the gap between “having a voice” and “having a friend.” In this definitive guide, we will explore how to use these scripts to turn every playground into a hub of inclusivity.

Why the AAC Social Script Matters for Playground Success

The playground is a high-speed environment. Decisions are made in split seconds, and social hierarchy is often determined by who can keep up with the “rules” of the game. For children with complex communication needs, the cognitive load of searching through hundreds of buttons on a personal device can sometimes lead to missing the moment.

By integrating a dedicated AAC social script into the physical environment via communication boards, we provide a visual anchor. It tells the child—and their neurotypical peers—exactly how to jump into the action. It normalizes AAC as a natural part of play, rather than a “special” tool used only in therapy.

Evidence-Based Practice: Why We Use Scripts

Our approach at Resources at Lakeshore Speech is grounded in evidence-based practice. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) emphasizes that communication is a social act. Research in the field of “Social Scripts” (Goldstein & Cisar, 1992) has long shown that providing linguistic frameworks helps children with developmental delays engage in more frequent and prolonged social interactions with peers.

Furthermore, the “Participation Model” of AAC assessment emphasizes removing barriers to participation. By installing communication boards and teaching specific AAC social scripts, we are actively dismantling the environmental and social barriers that keep children on the sidelines.

5 Essential Social Scripts for the Playground

To make the playground truly accessible, we need to look at the most common types of play. Here are five scripts designed to be used with communication boards to facilitate real-time engagement.

Script 1: The Classic Game of Tag and Hide-and-Seek

Tag is the quintessential playground game, but it’s incredibly fast-paced. A child using AAC needs to be able to claim their role immediately.

The Script:
- “Let’s play Tag!” [model touching the pictures ‘PLAY’ ‘TAG/RUN’]
- “I’m IT!” [model touching the pictures ‘I’ or ‘MY TURN’]
- “You’re IT!” [model touching the pictures ‘YOU’ or ‘YOUR TURN’]
- “Run, run, run!” [model touching the pictures ‘GO’ or ‘RUN’]
- “Found you!” (for Hide-and-Seek) [model touching the pictures ‘FIND YOU’’]

The Goal: To establish roles and provide the “narrative” of the chase. Using an AAC social script here prevents the child from being left out of the “Who is it?” debate.

Script 2: Collaborative Play in the Sandbox

The sandbox is where early engineering and sensory play collide. Communication here is about shared goals.

The Script:
- “Can I dig?” [model touching the pictures ‘I’ ‘PLAY’]
- “Pour the sand.” [model touching the picture ‘I’ or ‘MY TURN’]
- “Look! I built a [castle/mountain].” [model touching the picture SHOW YOU’]
- “My turn with the shovel.” [model touching the pictures ‘I’ or ‘MY TURN’]
The Goal: Transitioning from parallel play (playing next to someone) to associative play (playing with someone). This script focuses on the exchange of materials and joint attention.

Script 3: Sensory Thrills on the Slides and Swings

This area is often about intensity and regulation. Communication boards in this zone help children advocate for their physical needs.

The Script:
- “Go higher!”[model touching the pictures ‘GO’ ‘UP’]]
- “Push me, please.” [model touching the pictures ‘YOU’ ‘HELP’ ‘SWING’’]
- “Stop. I’m done.” [model touching the pictures ‘STOP’ ‘ALL DONE’]
- “Wait your turn.” [model touching the pictures ‘STOP’ ‘YOUR TURN’]
- “One, two, three… GO!” [model touching the picture ‘GO’]
The Goal: Directing action and setting boundaries. The “Stop” and “Wait” functions are critical for safety and self-regulation in high-stimulation areas.

Script 4: The World of Make-Believe and Dramatic Play

Whether it’s a playhouse or a “ship” on the jungle gym, dramatic play requires the highest level of linguistic negotiation.’

The Script:
- “Let’s pretend.” [model touching the pictures ‘I’, ‘YOU’ ‘PLAY’]
- “I’ll be the [Monster/Doctor/Chef].” [model touching the pictures ‘I’, ‘SHOW YOU’’]
- “Call the superhero for help” [model touching the pictures ‘YOU’ ‘GO’ ‘FIND’ ‘HELP’]
- “What do you want to eat?” [model touching the pictures ‘YOU’ ‘WANT’ ‘EAT’]
The Goal: To define the “reality” of the game. Using an AAC social script for make-believe allows a child to be the director of the play, not just a bystander.

Script 5: Navigating Conflict and Resolution

Conflict is a natural part of childhood. Giving a child the words to stand up for themselves is the ultimate form of empowerment.

The Script:
- “I don’t like that.” [model touching the pictures ‘NO’ ‘WANT’’]
- “It’s not your turn.” [model touching the pictures ‘NO’ ‘YOUR TURN’]
- “Please stop.” [model touching the pictures ‘YOU’ ‘STOP’]
- “Let’s play together.” [model touching the pictures ‘I’, ‘YOU’ ‘PLAY’]
- “I’m sorry.” [model touching the pictures ‘YOU’ ‘GOOD’]
The Goal: Self-advocacy. When a child can use a communication board to say “I don’t like that,” they are gaining agency over their environment and their body.

Implementing Communication Boards: A Guide for Community Leaders

If you are a park director, school principal, or a motivated parent, you might be wondering how to bring these tools to your local space. Implementing communication boards is more than just hanging a sign; it’s about creating a culture of inclusivity.

Step 1: Strategic Placement

Boards should be placed at the eye level of the users (pictures considering those in wheelchairs) and located near high-tep 2: Vocabulary Selection

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we specialize in selecting “core vocabulary”—the 20-50 words that make up 80% of what we say. Words like “Go,” “Help,” “Stop,” and “More” are essential, alongside “fringe” words specific to the playground (e.g., “Slide,” “Swing”).

Step 3: Community Education

Host a “Play Date” where an SLP demonstrates how to use the AAC social script. Provide QR codes on the boards that link to instructional videos or downloadable versions of the board for home use.

Feature	Impact on Inclusivity
High-Contrast Symbols	Assists users with visual impairments or CVI.
Core Vocabulary	Allows for the widest range of expression with the fewest symbols.
Weather-Proof Material	Ensures the “voice” of the community is always available, rain or shine.

The Path to Empowerment: Conclusion

The playground is the first place children learn about democracy, negotiation, and friendship. By providing an AAC social script on permanent communication boards, we aren’t just helping children talk; we are helping them belong.

We move away from the clinical setting and into the sunlight, where every child—regardless of their verbal ability—can shout “Let’s PLAY!” and feel the rush of being part of the pack. This is the heart of inclusivity. It is the belief that every voice deserves to be heard, especially when that voice is playing.

Ready to Build an Inclusive Playground?

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we are dedicated to bringing these tools to every community. Whether you are a parent looking for a home-based AAC social script or a city official ready to install communication boards in your local parks, we are here to guide you.

Contact us today at www.lakeshorespeech.com to begin the process of ordering your custom communication boards and training your staff on the power of inclusive play. Together, we can make sure no child is left on the sidelines.

The goal of an AAC social script is not perfection; it is participation. When we prioritize connection over correction, we open up a world of possibilities for our children. Let’s get outside and play traffic areas like the entrance, the sandbox, or the swing set.

Final Takeaway:

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Transforming Sports: The Benefits of a Communication Board

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.”

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:

Adaptive Sports Grants: Many state and federal agencies offer funding specifically for “accessible equipment.”
Therapeutic Riding Associations: Organizations like PATH Intl. often have small grants for facility improvements.
Community Foundations: Local Rotary Clubs or disability advocacy groups love funding tangible projects like a permanent AAC board.
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.

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Where to Buy Communication Boards for Outdoor Playground Use

The Ultimate Guide: Where to Buy Communication Boards for Outdoor Playground Use

As Senior Speech-Language Pathologists at Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we’ve spent our careers bridging the gap between clinical therapy and real-world play. We often see families and schools spend thousands on accessible swings and ramps, only to realize that the children using them still have no way to say, “My turn!” or “Look at me!”

The playground is a high-stakes social environment. For a child with complex communication needs, it can be overwhelming without the right tools. This guide serves as the definitive resource for understanding the landscape of communication boards, why they are essential for inclusive play, and where you can acquire a board that meets the highest clinical and durability standards.

Introduction: Why the Playground Needs a Voice

Communication is a fundamental human right, yet it is often the “missing piece” of playground accessibility. While many children use high-tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices—like speech-generating tablets—these devices aren’t always suited for the sandbox, the splash pad, or the top of a sun-drenched slide.

A permanent, outdoor communication board provides a “low-tech” fail-safe. It ensures that even if a device is left in a backpack or runs out of battery, the child’s voice remains present. Furthermore, these boards act as a visual bridge for the entire community, teaching neurotypical peers and adults how to interact and model language in a way that is inclusive of all processing styles.

Where to Buy Communication Boards: Navigating Your Options

When you are ready to move from “advocacy” to “action,” knowing where to source your equipment is vital. Not all signs are created equal. To ensure your investment is both clinically effective and “park-tough,” consider these primary sourcing avenues:

1. Clinical-Grade Turnkey Providers (The RLS Standard)

For organizations that want a “set it and forget it” solution that is rooted in evidence-based practice, a turnkey provider is the gold standard. At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, we specialize in these communication boards because we know that a sign is only as good as the vocabulary on it.

The Benefit: You aren’t just buying a piece of plastic; you are buying a layout designed by SLPs. These communication boards use researched-based “Core Vocabulary” (words like Go, Stop, Help, More) that allow for the greatest variety of expression.

The Durability: Our boards are engineered specifically for the “playground gauntlet.” They utilize high-density, UV-stabilized materials that resist fading, cracking, and even graffiti.

The Integration: These communication boards come with a QR code demonstrating how to use a board, to ensure the board is actually used once it is installed.

2. Inclusive Playground Equipment Manufacturers

Many large-scale playground equipment companies have begun adding communication boards to their catalogs as an “add-on” feature.

What to look for: While these are convenient if you are already doing a $100,000 playground renovation, ensure the vocabulary isn’t “noun-heavy.” Many general manufacturers focus too much on labels (e.g., “Slide,” “Swing”) rather than functional communication (e.g., “I want to go fast”).

The Gap: Often, these companies lack the clinical staff to provide training or support for the families using the equipment.

3. Grant-Funded Community Cooperatives

In many cases, the “purchase” happens through a partnership with local non-profits or civic groups like the Lions Club or the Junior League.

The Strategy: These groups often look for specific, tangible items to fund. Providing them with a direct link to a vetted communication board provider allows them to handle the procurement while you ensure the quality meets SLP standards.

The Deep Dive: Features That Make or Break a Board

What Vocabulary Should Be Included?

A common mistake in DIY or low-quality communication boards is focusing on “Fringe Vocabulary.” If a board only has pictures of playground equipment, a child can only label what is in front of them.

Core Vocabulary: These are the “power words” (like Go, Help, Want, Stop, Like, Mine). They make up about 80% of what we say and can be used in almost any situation.

Social Scripts: Including phrases like “My turn” or “Want to play?” facilitates immediate peer interaction, which is the primary goal of the playground experience.

How Do We Choose the Right Size and Placement?

A communication board that is too small will be ignored; one that is too high will be inaccessible.

Visibility: The board should be large enough (typically at least 3 feet by 2 feet) so that it can be seen from the main play structures.

The “Path of Travel”: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any “interactive element” in a park must be accessible via a firm, stable path. This means the board should be placed next to a sidewalk or on poured-in-place rubber surfacing—not in the middle of a deep wood-chip pit.

What Materials Can Actually Survive the Outdoors?

We’ve all seen faded, peeling signs at local parks. To avoid this, look for:

Sub-Surface Printing: This ensures the ink is protected by a thick layer of clear material.

Non-Glare Matte Finish: This is crucial for children with sensory sensitivities or visual impairments who may be blinded by a “shiny” sign in direct midday sun.

Graffiti-Resistant Coatings: In public spaces, this is a must. You want a surface where permanent marker or spray paint can be removed without dissolving the communication symbols underneath.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Are these boards only for children with Autism?

Absolutely not. While communication boards are incredibly helpful for autistic children who may be non-speaking or minimally verbal, they serve a much wider population:

Children with Apraxia or Phonological Disorders: They may use the board to “clarify” their speech when a peer doesn’t understand them.

English Language Learners (ELL): The symbols provide a universal language that helps children from different linguistic backgrounds play together.

Late Talkers: The visual support can reduce the frustration of a toddler who can’t yet express their needs.

How much do playground communication boards cost?

Pricing varies based on the “tier” of the product:

Base Level (Sign Only): Often ranges from $550 to $1,500.

Full Kits (Sign + Mounting Posts + Hardware): Range from $2,500 to $4,500.

The ROI: When you consider that a high-tech AAC device can cost $5,000+ and can be broken in a single afternoon, a $3,000 permanent board that lasts 10–15 years is an incredibly cost-effective community investment.

Can we customize our communication boards?

Yes, and we often recommend it! A board at a “Splash Pad” should have different fringe vocabulary (e.g., wet, cold, splash) than a board at a “Nature Trail” (e.g., bug, bird, dirt). Customizing the board makes the language more relevant and motivating for the child.

Evidence-Based Practice: The Clinical “Why”

At Resources at Lakeshore Speech, our recommendations follow the guidelines of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) regarding “Augmentative and Alternative Communication.“

Clinical research shows that:

Visual Supports Promote Literacy: Seeing a word paired with a symbol consistently helps build the “sight word” recognition necessary for future reading.

Modeling Facilitates Acquisition: Children learn language by hearing it. For children who use AAC, they need to see it. When parents and teachers use the communication board to “talk” to the child, they are providing the necessary input for the child to eventually use it themselves.

Behavior is Communication: Many “problem behaviors” on the playground stem from an inability to express a need. By providing a clear way to say “STOP” or “NEED BREAK,” we significantly reduce playground incidents.

Why Buy from Resources at Lakeshore Speech?

We aren’t just a sign company; we are a team of practicing clinicians. When you purchase from us, you are getting:

SLP-Vetted Vocabulary: We’ve done the research on which words get kids talking.

Implementation Support: We don’t just ship you a sign; we provide the training resources your staff needs to make it a success.

Durability Guarantee: We know schools and parks are on tight budgets. We build our boards to last through snowy winters and blistering summers.

Conclusion: Empowering the Next Generation of Play

Inclusive play is about more than just physical access; it’s about social connection. By installing high-quality communication boards, you are giving every child a seat at the table—or a spot on the slide. You are telling your community that every voice deserves to be heard, regardless of how that voice is produced.

The time to wait for “perfect” is over; the time to build “inclusive” is now. We are ready to equip your playground so it is truly inclusive, contact us today!

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Communication Boards & ADA Accessibility : Inspiring Inclusion

The Power of Connection: A Comprehensive Report on Communication Boards & ADA Accessibility

Imagine walking onto a playground and feeling like you have no voice. For many children and adults with speech differences, this is a daily reality. However, we have the power to change that. Seeing how the right tools turn a silent park into a world of conversation is a powerful thing.

Today we go on a deep dive into communication boards and ADA accessibility. We will explore how these simple signs create a “language-rich” environment for everyone. Whether you are a parent, a teacher, or a community leader, you play a vital role in building a world where every voice is heard.

Why Every Community Needs Communication Boards

At its heart, communication is a human right. Many people use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). This is just a way of saying they use tools other than talking to share their thoughts.

When we put communication boards in public spaces, we are telling every child, “You belong here.” These boards usually feature symbols or pictures that represent words like “swing,” “help,” “more,” or “stop.” By pointing to a picture, a person who cannot speak clearly can still tell their friend they want to play tag.

Furthermore, these boards don’t just help people with disabilities. They help toddlers who are still learning to talk and families who speak different languages. Consequently, a single board makes the entire community stronger and more connected.

The Legal Side: Communication Boards and ADA Accessibility

You might wonder if these boards are required by law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) says that public spaces must be accessible. While the law is often associated with ramps and wide doorways, it also covers “effective communication.” This means people with speech disabilities must have a way to interact with their environment.

Understanding Inclusive Playground Requirements

To truly meet inclusive playground requirements, we have to look past the physical equipment. A child might be able to get their wheelchair onto the play structure, but can they ask to join the game?

ADA Physical Access: The board must be at a height where someone in a wheelchair or a small child can reach it.
ADA Visual Access : The board needs high-contrast colors so people with low vision can see the symbols clearly.
Durability: In public spaces, boards must withstand rain, sun, and heavy use over many years.

By following these inclusive playground requirements, city planners ensure that “access” means more than just being present—it means being an active participant in the fun.

FAQ: Common Questions About AAC in Public Spaces

In clinical and community settings, certain questions come up often. Understanding the “why” behind AAC public spaces helps everyone get on board with these projects.

1. Who actually uses these communication boards?

The short answer is: Everyone! Specifically, they support individuals with:

Autism or Down Syndrome
Cerebral Palsy or Apraxia of Speech
Brain injuries or temporary speech loss

In addition to those with disabilities, they are great for young kids who are learning to follow icons and symbols.

2. Do these boards stop children from learning to talk?

This is a common worry, but the evidence shows the opposite. Research and clinical standards from groups like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) show that using AAC actually helps language development. It reduces the frustration that comes with not being understood. When a child feels successful communicating through a board, they are often more motivated to try using their voice.

3. Where should we place them for the best impact?

Location is key for ADA accessible park communication. You want the board to be in a “high-traffic” area where play happens. Good spots include:

The main entrance to the playground area.
Near the most popular equipment, like the swings or slides.
In “quiet zones” where a child might go if they feel overwhelmed.

The Clinical Perspective: Why Symbols Matter

In speech therapy, the focus is on functional communication. This means being able to say what you need, when you need it, in the real world.

Public boards use what is called “Core Vocabulary.” These are words that make up about 80% of what we say every day. Words like “go,” “want,” “I,” and “you” are incredibly versatile.

Key Takeaway: A well-designed board doesn’t just have pictures of toys; it has “action words” that allow a person to direct their own play and make choices.

Designing Meaningful ADA Accessible Parks Communication

If you are a community leader looking to install a board, keep these three things in mind to ensure the project successfully includes ADA accessbility:

Universal Design

Don’t hide the board in a corner. It should be a central part of the park. When everyone—regardless of ability—uses the board, the social pressure of using AAC disappears. It becomes a normal part of playing, just like the sandpit or the monkey bars.

Clear Icons and Systems

Use symbols that are widely recognized. Most speech experts recommend using symbols from established systems. This consistency helps users because the “stop” sign at the park looks the same as the “stop” sign in their school book or on their personal tablet.

Community Training and Support

Installing the board is only the first step. Furthermore, you should provide a way for people to learn how to use it. Many boards now include a QR code that links to a short video. This video can show parents how to “model” the language. Modeling is simply pointing to the pictures while you talk to your child so they see how it works.

Expert Tip: If you want your park to be truly inclusive, host a “Communication Playdate” where an SLP shows the community how to use the board!

Making AAC Public Spaces a Reality

Creating AAC public spaces requires a team effort. It takes a village to ensure no one is left out of the conversation. Here is how different groups can help:

Families: Request communication boards and ADA accessibility from your local parks department or city council. Your lived experience is the best way to spark change.
Educators: Use the boards during field trips. Show your students that communication happens everywhere, not just at a desk.
Community Leaders: Budget for these boards as essential infrastructure, not as an “extra.”

In addition to being the right thing to do, it is a smart investment. Parks that are inclusive attract more families and foster a more welcoming city culture for everyone.

Conclusion: Empowerment Through Accessibility

When we prioritize communication boards and ADA accessibility, we are building more than just parks; we are building confidence. We are giving a non-speaking child the power to say “My turn!” We are giving a parent the joy of finally understanding what their child wants to do next.

Communication is the thread that ties a community together. An inclusive park can change a life by removing the barriers that keep people apart. No one should be a spectator in their own neighborhood because they communicate differently. Making a public space truly ADAaccessible is a big job, but it is one that pays off every time a child points to a board and smiles

Taking the Next Step. Let’s Build an Inclusive Future Together

Are you ready to make your public space truly ADA accessible? Whether you need help choosing symbols, understanding inclusive playground requirements, or training your staff, we are here to help. Contact Resources at Lakeshore Speech to begin your journey.

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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!

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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.

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.

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:

Site Selection: Choose a location that is central and visible, such as near the main play structure or the park entrance.
Symbol Alignment: Talk to local school SLPs to see which symbol set (SymbolStix or Boardmaker) is most common in your area.
Funding and Sponsorship: Identify local donors. Remember, we add their logos for free to help you secure that partnership.
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.

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Tag: support for special needs

Key Takeaways

Quick Links

Empowering Non-Verbal Expression in Moments of Crisis

What is an Emotional Regulation / Balance Communication Board?

The Anatomy of an Emotional Balance Design

The Science of Visual Anchors in Social-Emotional Learning

Alleviating Cognitive Load Through AAC

Advancing Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Material Engineering: Coroplast vs. Aluminum Alloy

1. Heavy-Duty Aluminum Alloy Boards

2. Lightweight Coroplast Boards

Strategic Placement: Where Do You Install Emotional Regulation Boards?

The Sensory Room or Dedicated “Reset Space”

The Classroom or Facility Doorway

Public Parks, Playgrounds, and Recreational Complexes

Clinical FAQs: Deep Dive into Emotional Literacy

How do emotional regulation / balance boards differ from standard feelings charts?

Can these boards be used for neurotypical individuals?

Why is a fixed layout preferred over a completely custom board?

Implementation Strategies for Caregivers and Educators

1. The Power of Proactive Modeling

2. Conducting Daily Check-Ins

3. Integrating the Board into Positive Reinforcement

Cultivating Long-Term Inclusion and Autonomy

Secure Your SLP-Designed Communication Board Today

Quick Facts & Key Takeaways – Benefits of Communication Boards

What's Inside

How Outdoor Communication Boards Give Every Child a Voice

What Are Playground Communication Boards?

Why Public Spaces Require a Shift in How We View Accessibility

What Are the Benefits of Communication Boards for Children?

1. Reducing Communicative Frustration and Cognitive Load

2. Supporting Receptive and Expressive Language Growth

3. Fostering Autonomy and Self-Advocacy

4. Supporting Visual Learners

5. Encouraging Peer Connections

The Core Benefits of Communication Boards for Children in Public Parks

1. Eliminating the “Device Burden” and Protecting Speech Tools

2. Equalizing the Social Playing Field

3. Immediate Access to Safety and Boundary Language

Who Benefits from Outdoor AAC Boards?

Design and Functionality: A Speech-Language Perspective

Symbol System Consistency

Core vs. Fringe Vocabulary

Durability and Customization

Improving Accessibility with Integrated Technology

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Communication Boards

Do communication boards stop a child from learning how to talk?

How do cities select the right vocabulary symbols for an outdoor park board?

Successful Implementations Nationwide

Conclusion: Empowering Every Child to Have a Voice in the Community

Why Every Park Needs Multi-Lingual Communication Boards

Communication Boards:

Quick Facts & Key Takeaways

Breaking the Silence on the Playground

What Are Communication Boards and Why Do They Matter?

The “Why” Behind the Board

The Power of Multi-Lingual Communication Boards

Supporting ELL and Bilingual Students Outdoors

Layout Strategies: Designing for Clarity

Stacking English and a Second Language

Translation vs. Localization: Capturing the Spirit of Play

Evidence-Based Practice: What the Research Says

The Robustness of Visual Supports

Addressing “People Also Ask”

How do I choose which languages to include?

Where is the best place to install a communication board?

Will these boards get vandalized?

Benefits for All: A Lesson in Empathy

Empowering Every Voice

Ready to make your playground a truly inclusive space?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are communication boards only for children with autism?

Q: Can these be used in schools?

Q: How do we teach kids to use them?

Q: Are the boards ADA compliant?

Q: How much do they cost?

Breaking the "One-Size-Fits-All" Mold: A Comprehensive Guide to Customizing Communication Boards

Why Representation Matters in AAC Communication