Smarty Symbols

Smarty Symbols

Breaking Barriers in Arizona: How Communication Boards Are Changing Play Spaces

Playgrounds across Arizona are getting a voice. When SLP Ebony Green teamed up with visual communication experts, two communication boards were installed at Tumbleweed and Apache parks, each featuring 72 colorful, bilingual symbols that empower non-verbal and minimally verbal children to express themselves through play. This community-driven initiative not only bridges communication gaps and fosters new friendships but also serves as a blueprint for any town looking to bring inclusive design solutions to their local parks.

Creating Inclusive Playgrounds: The Proclamation of Communication Board Day

The City of Plantation, Florida, marked a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity and communication accessibility. With the proclamation of "Communication Board Day," the city celebrated the remarkable contributions of Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP, and her collaboration with Smarty Symbols. This unprecedented event highlights the transformative power of communication boards in creating inclusive playgrounds and public spaces.

Funding for Inclusive Play: How to Secure a Communication Board for Your School or Playground

Communicattion Boards Funding

Looking for fundraising ideas to bring communication boards to your school or community playground? Explore a range of creative and effective strategies in this article. Discover how individuals and organizations have successfully secured funding through grassroots initiatives, partnerships with local businesses, and grant applications. Uncover the power of community engagement and the positive impact of communication boards on children of all abilities. Get inspired to take action and create inclusive play spaces that foster communication, belonging, and endless possibilities for every child.

Empowering Voices: How One Child’s Mission Transformed Recess for Non-Verbal Students

Derek Walz Inclusive Playground Initiative - Use for images showing Derek or the overall playground.

Discover the incredible story of Derek Walz, an 8-year-old with a heart full of compassion and a determination to make a difference. Inspired by a classmate's struggle to communicate during recess, Derek embarked on a mission to create a more inclusive playground experience for non-verbal students. Through his project to enhance recess through communication boards, Derek may be igniting a movement of compassion and inspiring children and adults alike to create positive change in their communities.