Playground Core Communication Boards

Recess and Communication on the Playground

Recess is often one of the most anticipated parts of the school day. What other time at school do children enjoy as much as playing, exploring, and connecting with friends?

For children who use AAC, however, recess can present a unique challenge. Taking an AAC device onto the playground should be encouraged, yet sometimes it just isn't available for whatever reason. Yet without access to communication, a child may be unable to interact with peers, join games, or communicate with teachers during outdoor play.

At the AAC Language Lab, we’re excited to see a growing movement within the AAC community to address this challenge. More and more schools are installing large, symbol‑based communication boards on playgrounds—supporting independence, participation, and inclusion for children who use AAC. As interest in playground communication boards has grown, we’ve received many questions about how schools can create their own boards and how to select appropriate symbols and vocabulary.

Below, you’ll find guidance to help you get started.

Instructions for Creating a Playground Communication Board

1. Download the preferred zipped file
   Choose the system(s) you use: WordPower, Unity, and/or LAMP Words for Life (WFL).

2. Share the files with your local printer
   Printers will need access to the files, which can be provided via a thumb drive or a large file transfer service. Each zip file is approximately 25 MB.

3. Select board materials and size
   Your printer can help you determine the best material and dimensions. We recommend using a highly durable material that can withstand frequent use and outdoor weather conditions.

4. Install the board
   Once printed, the board can be mounted on a wall or installed on a post in a location that is easily accessible to children on the playground.

Terms of Use

To use AAC Language Lab Core Communication Board templates or icons from our websites, the following terms apply:

• A PRC‑Saltillo device or app must be supported within the school or organization.

• Playground boards (and any other low‑tech materials using these symbols) may not be sold, resold, or commercialized.

• If you create a custom board (rather than using one of our complete templates as provided), you must include the appropriate copyright statement somewhere on the board:

  • When using MINSPEAK® symbols from Unity, LAMP Words for Life, or UNIDAD:
    © PRC‑Saltillo / Semantic Compaction Systems, Inc.

  • When using SymbolStix® symbols from WordPower™:
    © PRC‑Saltillo / SymbolStix / Inman Innovations

• Optional: If you would like to include a website for additional information about our AAC systems, please use:
  www.prc-saltillo.com