168 printable communication cards · Everyday needs, feelings, health & hospital support · Blank template included · Instant PDF download
When speaking is difficult, having another way to communicate can make a real difference.
This comprehensive set of 168 printable communication cards gives children, teens and adults simple written prompts they can point to, show or use alongside speech. The cards cover everyday needs, feelings, sensory needs, health, personal care, hospital situations and more.
They can be useful whenever speech is difficult, unavailable or not the person's preferred way to communicate, including at home, school, healthcare settings and during recovery from illness.
Basic needs & choices
Examples include yes, no, help, hungry, thirsty, tired, bathroom, I need a break, I want to go home and I need more time.
Feelings & emotions
Cards include happy, sad, worried, frustrated, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, stressed, lonely and other ways to communicate how someone is feeling.
Sensory needs & personal space
Examples include it's too loud, it's too bright, I need it to be quiet, I need my headphones, I need space, I need to be alone, stay with me and don't touch me.
Health & medication
Includes ways to communicate pain, dizziness, feeling unwell, headache, fever, medication and prescription needs, as well as requests to see a doctor or nurse.
Hospital & care
Useful phrases include I need some water, I feel uncomfortable, I want to sit up, nurse call button, I need a blanket, help with toileting, changing the bedsheets, lights on/off and personal-care requests.
Everyday activities & communication
Includes greetings, asking someone to slow down, saying I don't understand, making phone calls, listening to music, drawing, reading, going for a walk, showering, bathing and other everyday activities.
These cards are designed as flexible communication supports rather than for one diagnosis or age group. They may be useful for people who are non-speaking, communicate differently, experience selective mutism or anxiety around speaking, are recovering from illness or stroke, are in hospital, or temporarily find speech difficult.
Choose only the cards that are useful to the individual. Communication can include pointing, showing a card, writing, typing, gestures, AAC and speech — there is no requirement to progress towards spoken communication.
Print the full set or select only the cards that are relevant. Laminating frequently used cards can help them last longer.
These cards are an educational and supportive communication resource. They are not a substitute for individual medical, speech and language, occupational therapy or other professional advice. Communication needs vary from person to person, so adapt the selection and use of the cards to the individual.
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