A communication board is a board with pictures that helps people share messages. It is part of total communication, which means using all the tools we have to make our messages clear.
These tools include:
- pictures
- gestures
- signs
- words
You can find communication boards in some children's disability network teams (CDNTs) and playgrounds.
How to use a communication board
The best way for a child to learn to use a communication board is for someone to show them.
Point to a picture on the board such as a bench and say the word 'bench'. Use the word in a sentence, like ‘let’s sit on the bench’
Playground communication boards - (video)
Practice
Use the board every time you visit the playground. You can also print out the board to use at home.
Be patient
Every child is different. Some children will learn how to use the communication board quickly. Other children may need more time. Be sure to make learning fun and take your time.
Pause
Let the child have time to use the board. They might copy what you did or point to pictures or words they want to use.
Interact
If they choose a picture or a word, show that you understand and say the word in context.
For example, if they point to ‘swing’ you could say ‘ok let’s go to the swing’. Or if they point to ‘I’ ‘like’ ‘slide’ you could respond by pointing and saying ‘I’ ‘like’ ‘seesaw’.
Prompt
Point to the word ‘play’ and say to the child ‘what would you like to play?’
Variety
Show how you can use the board to talk about many things.
Use it to:
- ask for things
- talk about things (‘I’ + ‘like’),
- describe something (‘fast’ or ‘slow’)
- ask questions (‘where?’)
Resources
Learn about communication boards from Monaghan and Meath County Councils:
- How to use a Communication Board (PDF, 514 KB, 4 pages) - monaghan.ie
- Playground Communication Boards - meath.ie
Stewarts Care created this communication board to use on its Rossecourt Campus.
This content was adapted from a guide by Dublin South, Kildare, West Wicklow Children's Disability Network Teams.