Category: AAC

Imagine this: the sun shining, laughter echoing, and kids of all abilities playing together on the playground. Wouldn’t that be incredible? YOU can make this happen! Introducing a special communication board to your community playground, ensures that every child, regardless of their communication abilities, can join in the fun.

**Why a Playground Communication Board?**

Some of our friends need a little extra help talking. A communication board on the playground opens up a world of play and connection for everyone. It’s not just a board; it’s a bridge that connects hearts and creates lasting friendships.

**How Can You Help?**

We believe in the power of community! By making a commitment to provide a playground communication board to your local playground, you become a superhero in making the playground inclusive and accessible for all. Here are 5 easy steps for how you can be a part of this exciting journey:

1. **Make a plan:**

Ask yourself (and your committee) these questions as this project takes shape:

• • What playground would benefit from communication boards?
  • What languages are predominantly spoken in your community?
  • How would the communication boards best be installed (ie: free standing in a frame, attached to a fence, attached to a piece of equipment, secured to a side of a building, etc.)

2. **Research Your Options**

When looking for a company to provide the communication signs, you want to ask the following questions:

• • Has a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist developed the vocabulary?
  • Can the communication sign be 100% customized if need be at a reasonable price?
  • Is the overall price reasonable?
  • Is communication with a REAL PERSON easy, efficient and effective?
  • Does the company stand behind the quality of their communication signs?

3. **Find Funding Sources**

 Everyone likes to be part of a great idea that helps everyone in the community. 

• • Research different funding opportunities in your community.  
  • Get creative and host a mini-fundraiser in your neighborhood, school, or workplace. Bake sales, garage sales, or even a fun-themed event can make a big impact.
  • Reach Out to Local Businesses – local businesses love supporting community projects. Approach them and see if they would be interested in sponsoring our playground communication board. 

4. **Making it all come together**

Once your vision is set, you’ve made your selection and the funding is in place, it is important that the production of the communication sign is fast and accurate:

• • Ensure you receive a draft copy of the artwork/layout prior to production.
  • Share your agency’s and/or funding source’s logo to be included on the communication sign
  • Expect frequent and clear communication

5. **Celebrate**

When your playground communication board arrives, plan for a playground part to unveil this great accomplishment. Celebrate the fact that you have made a firm statement in your community that: 

• • Inclusivity Matters:  Every child deserves the chance to play and communicate on the playground.
  • Building Friendships is Important:  The communication board isn’t just a tool; it’s a bridge to new friendships and shared adventures.
  • Community Unity Matters: Together, you helped to create a community that embraces and supports every child’s unique abilities.

Bonus tip: 

**Stay Connected:**

Record your journey on social media with regular updates, stories of triumph, and a behind-the-scenes look at how your contributions are making a real difference. 

Join us in creating a playground that speaks the language of joy, friendship, and inclusivity. Together, we’re building bridges that last a lifetime!