Functional Communication

 
Individuals with special needs who are non-verbal or who do not consistently express their wants and needs via verbal communication must have an alternative method to do so.  Visual tools such as picture cards can provide individuals who are non-verbal with a way to express themselves.   In some cases, a picture-based communication system can ultimately serve as the bridge to verbal communication. 

Pre-K and K
Elementary (grades 1 - 5)
Secondary (grades 6 - 12)
Everyone (Pre-K - 12)
   
General considerations  
How to use picture cards
Printable forms and templates
Printable communication tools
 

Visual tools to promote functional communication
Reciprocal communication
Making requests
Making choices

Concrete to abstract activity choice boards
Use Make a Schedule (online version) to develop functional communication systems
Use Make a Schedule (desktop version) to develop functional communication systems
 ELL/ ESL Communication Boards

Sign Language Flash Cards

Occupations Bingo printable game
Color Bingo
printable game