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What are printable communication cards?
What Are Printable Communication Cards?
Printable communication cards / communication boards are a type of visual aid that is used to assist individuals with communication difficulties. These cards typically contain words, images or symbols that represent common words, phrases, or concepts, and can be used to help nonverbal individuals express themselves.
Printable communication cards can be especially helpful for individuals with Selective Mutism, as well as other communication disorders such as autism, aphasia, stroke or developmental delays. Some communication cards are designed for specific purposes, such as expressing needs or feelings. Others are more general.
Selective Mutism
Communication cards can be used in many different ways. For example, a child with selective mutism (a type of anxiety disorder) - may be non-verbal in a school setting and verbal at home. Communication cards may help the child to express their needs without the pressure of having to speak. The child will show a picture of a toilet for example - this allows the child to fully communicate with the teacher that they needs to go to the toilet.
Stroke
Someone who has had a stroke - Communication difficulties are not uncommon following a stroke. Some stroke survivors may have difficulty understanding what others are saying, while others may have trouble speaking. Printable communication cards can be instantly accessed and printed helping to reduce frustration and anxiety in patients who are struggling to communicate. Patients can use them to convey their thoughts and needs more effectively, which can help them feel more in control and less stressed.
Speech Delay
Picture communication cards are a great option also with young children with delayed speech. For example children with delayed speech may not have the words to say when they are hungry or tired. Instead they may express themselves as being angry or upset. Knowing which card to use when hungry can take away a lot of frustration for both the child and parent (or teacher).
Other
These are just three examples however, anyone who struggle with verbal communication can benefit by using these communication cards whether in social situations, hospital stays, recovery from an operation or illness, in school, at home or other community settings.
If you are using communication cards with someone who has communication difficulties, it is important to be patient and to give them time to express themselves. It is also important to be respectful of their communication abilities and to not make assumptions about what they can or cannot do.
If you're using them with a child with Selective Mutism, ask the child how they feel about using them, some older children may feel they draw more attention to them and may not want to use them, however other children may prefer the idea of using these cards over verbal expression.
How to use the communication cards
After downloading your cards, Scroll through the pages and print the ones you want to use. After printing, laminate them for longer use. You can then either cut them into smaller cards or laminate the sheet and use as a single communication board.
To make a communication lanyard after laminating the cards, use a hole puncher to create a small hole in each card and attach to keyring or lanyard.
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We offer a range of printable communication cards. These cards are designed to be easy to use, with clear images and words that are easy to understand. The cards can be printed out and used in a range of settings, such as classrooms, therapy sessions, hospital and home. You can see the collection of communication cards here
Disclaimer - This blog post was written by a qualified Occupational Therapist for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.
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