What are communication boards?
Communication boards are devices used to support people who need help expressing themselves. The boards come in many forms, and can vary from a single sheet of card to a Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) book which uses language and symbols to represent words and phrases.
At CPL, our supported employees at Mylestones Printing are involved in every step of creating these books, including production, design, and packaging.
Types of communication aids
CPL offer a number of different types of communication aids, including:
Alphabet boards
Alphabet boards are a simple and easy to use communication tool. The board has large letters and numbers so the user can point to communicate their needs by spelling out words or phrases. A non-tech option such as this is a great back up for people who may use electronic communication devices.
Communication boards
A communication board is a device to help people with limited language abilities express themselves. The board has photos, symbols, letters and pictures that the user can gesture, point or blink at to communicate with others.
Community cards
Community request cards are compact and portable cards that are used to communicate with people within their community. Each card will consist of a request and a corresponding image intended to help clients be more independent. They can support with tasks such as making a purchase, asking for assistance and using public transport.
Activity boards
An activity board has the specific words that may be needed for a particular activity. They include quick phrases and single words, for example needing a break or wanting to go outside. Activity boards are really useful when the user is going into a new situation and want to communicate their needs quickly and easily.
Communication Books
Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) is a communication device or book that has symbols and words to support communication between people with complex communication needs and their family, friends and support workers. PODD books can be highly personalised and are suitable for any age group. Our therapists will work with you to ensure your PODD book suits your individual needs.
Song boards
Song boards are a great resource to encourage engaging communication through songs. They can be used across all ages to encourage the user to participate in singing and develop their language skills.
Why choose us?
Our Communication Board Services (CBS) team offer a personalised and high quality service created for people with disabilities, by people with disabilities. We understand everyone is different and there is not a one size fits all communication aid. We will work with you to find and design the right one for your communication needs and abilities.
Ready to order?
Once you have decided which communication aid is the right fit for you, we can help you through the ordering process.
- The first step is discussing your communication needs with your therapist, to determine the most suitable PODD to support your communication, or you can contact CBS directly to arrange a therapy consultation.
- If you already have a therapist, they can provide personalised vocabulary templates direct to CBS, or we can personalise the vocabulary for you.
- From there the team will create a quote, and once approved start constructing the book. You can expect it to be ready in 4-8 weeks.
Meet Molly
"Molly is so happy we’re using her PODD device. She’s doing well at school and it’s really opened my eyes to the different ways that kids communicate."
Erin, Molly’s mum
Get In Touch
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Find out what services you can access in your area or check out your nearest CPL centre.