Communication tools for play
Apart from spoken word, there are many different ways to communicate, such as sounds, gestures, miming, pictures and hand signs. It is no different when children play. Your child can use these methods to direct play and interact with others.
The following tools may help increase communication for children in outdoor play spaces.
Choice-making tools
It is important that children are able to communicate their wishes and choices to direct their play. These choice-making tools feature images of things that your child may like to use and visit in a playground or park.
Chat boards
Children communicate a range of feelings, emotions, thoughts and actions while they play. These chat boards feature pictures and words that children may like to say.
Active play – ball play, sliding, climbing and spinning
Pretend play – playing shop and other role play
Sensory play – smelling, touching and exploring
Picnic table – conversation over food
Due to licensing arrangements, these tools are only available in PDF format. If you are not able to access PDF files, please contact the Queensland Government on 13 QGOV (13 7468) to request a copy.