Playground Talk: Supporting All Kids with Core Communication Boards

Play is how children learn best—and every child deserves the chance to connect, communicate, and be part of the fun. That’s where communication boards come in! If you’ve seen a large, colorful board filled with symbols or pictures at your local playground, you’ve found a powerful tool to support all children—especially those with speech and language delays, autism, or other communication differences.

Here’s how you can use it to help build language, connection, and confidence—whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or just someone who wants to help kids be included.

What Is a Communication Board?

A communication board is a visual tool that displays words using symbols or pictures. It helps children understand (receptive language) and express (expressive language) ideas by pointing to or referencing pictures. These boards are often filled with core vocabulary—simple, versatile words like “go,” “stop,” “want,” or “help”—that we use all the time in daily conversation and fringe vocabulary - words specific to the setting or topic.

How to Use It on the Playground

You don’t have to be a speech therapist to support communication. Here’s how to make the most of the board during play:

1. Model Words as You Play

Use your finger to point to a symbol as you say the word aloud. This helps children see and hear how to use the board

Example: Point to “GO” and say “Let’s GO down the slide!”

2. Keep It Natural

Talk just like you would in real life—no need for long sentences. Keep it short and focused on what’s happening in the moment.

“You want a TURN?” (point to “want” + “turn”)“That was FUN!” (point to “fun”)

3. Use It for Choices and Requests

Encourage kids to make choices using the board. Offer two options and model how to select one.

“Do you want to SWING or SLIDE?” (point to each word)Wait, then help them point—or just celebrate their choice if they gesture or show you another way!

4. Support Big Feelings

Playground moments can bring BIG emotions. Use the board to help kids label feelings or ask for help.

“Are you SAD?” (point to “sad”)“Want HELP?” (point to “help”)

5. Celebrate All Attempts

Any form of communication is a win—pointing, gestures, eye gaze, or even reaching toward a picture. Respond warmly, expand with language, and cheer them on.

“You pointed to GO—yes, let’s go fast!”

💡Tips for Parents and Caregivers

• You don’t need to use every word. Focus on a few key ones based on what your child is doing.

• Use it consistently. Try it for greetings, asking for turns, or during transitions like leaving the park.

• Stay positive and patient. It may take time, but your child is always learning.

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🌟 Why It Matters

Core communication boards make language visible and accessible. They support children with limited verbal speech and give all children more tools to express themselves. By using them regularly, you help build vocabulary, reduce frustration, and increase inclusion for every child.

Next Time You're at the Playground…look and see if there is a board. Try a few words. Make it fun.Because every child has something to say—and you can help them say it.

Check out our video for more information:

If your local park does not have communication boards available, send them our way! We would be happy to help them get started!