Welcome! Here, you’ll find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our innovative communication tools. Our goal is to help you understand how Communication Boards by Smarty Symbols can enhance communication, learning, and play in various settings—from school playgrounds to community parks.
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The main difference between the two playground communication board designs for schools is the number of words included on the board. The School Playground Communication Board features a total of 78 words and is designed for elementary schools from kindergarten to 5th grade, while the Simplified School Playground Communication Board features a total of 55 words and is designed specifically for pre-K playground environments. Both boards are weather-resistant, fully customizable, and promote communication and social interaction among students. The School Playground Communication Board includes a wider range of vocabulary words and is suitable for a broader age range of students, while the Simplified School Playground Communication Board is designed with younger students in mind and features essential vocabulary words that are most relevant to pre-K playground settings.
Playground Communication Boards by Smarty Symbols are custom designed communication boards designed to make spaces more inclusive for all communicators. They utilize our diverse and inclusive library of symbols to support effective learning and interaction.
Absolutely! Customization is at the heart of Smarty Symbols. You can select from over 60,000 images in our Smarty Symbols Image Library to tailor the communication boards to your specific educational requirements.
You can purchase our Communication Boards directly from our website. You can also send a purchase order or request a quote using our contact form.
Yes, we provide a range of support materials and training guides to help you make the most out of your Communication Boards. These resources are designed to help you implement and use our products effectively in your educational settings.
The installation process for your communication board depends on the type of material and the location where you intend to place it. We have a specific document with details about installation and photos of other installation from previous creative customers. Here are some general guidelines for installing different types of communication boards:
For more detailed installation instructions and recommendations, please refer to the product manual or contact the Smarty Symbols team for assistance.
The typical lifespan of a communication board depends on several factors, including the material it is made from, the quality of the construction, the environment in which it is used, and how well it is maintained. Here are some general guidelines for the durability of different materials:
To extend the lifespan of your communication board, it is essential to follow proper maintenance and care instructions. This includes cleaning the board regularly, avoiding exposure to extreme conditions, and checking for any signs of wear or damage. By taking care of your communication board, you can ensure it remains effective and functional for as long as possible.
To further extend the lifespan of your communication board, you can consider adding a protective layer of plexiglass to the surface. Plexiglass is a transparent, durable, and lightweight material that provides an additional layer of protection against wear and tear, as well as environmental factors such as moisture and sunlight.
Adding plexiglass to your communication board can help preserve the printed images and text, ensuring that they remain vibrant and legible for an extended period. This option is particularly beneficial for boards placed in high-traffic or outdoor areas, where they may be exposed to harsher conditions or more frequent use.
The material you select for your communication board depends on factors such as the intended use, location, and budget. Here are the three material options offered by Smarty Symbols along with their characteristics to help you make an informed decision:
When selecting a material, consider the environment in which the board will be placed, your budget, and any specific aesthetic preferences. If you are still unsure about which material to choose, you can always reach out to the Smarty Symbols team for guidance based on your particular needs and requirements. Here is a brochure with installation ideas, which can help determine the best material for your need.
When selecting a location for your communication board, consider factors such as visibility, accessibility, and the specific needs of your intended users. The closer the board is to the playground equipments the better. If the playground is large and has multiple separate spaces, consider adding more than 1 board. Children should not have to move too far to access their words. The board should be placed in a prominent and easily accessible area where users can comfortably interact with it. Additionally, consider any environmental factors, such as exposure to direct sunlight or moisture, that may impact the board’s durability and performance.
When designing a communication board for a specific space, it is crucial to consider the needs and abilities of the users who will be utilizing it. This includes taking into account factors such as the age range, accessibility requirements, and visual accessibility for all users.
For elementary school settings, where children aged 4 to 10, including those in wheelchairs, will be using the communication board, it is important to ensure that the board is designed at an appropriate height that allows easy access for all users. The board should be positioned at a height that allows children in wheelchairs to reach and view the content comfortably. Additionally, it should be placed at a height that allows standing children to see and interact with the board without straining or needing assistance.
The average arm span, or the length from fingertip to fingertip when both arms are outstretched, for children in elementary school typically ranges from about 48 to 58 inches (122 to 147 cm). However, it’s important to note that arm span can vary among individuals based on factors such as height, body proportions, and age.
That’s why Smarty Symbol’s communication boards are no wider than 45 inches. This will ensure that elementary school children can access all the symbols on the board. We highly recommend that if you are designing your own board that you stay within that width. Our products have been studies and many aspects taken into consideration. That’s what we do!
Here is one of our installation documentations which you can download.
Smarty Symbols opens its first Latin America office in Salvador, Bahia, to deploy Portuguese-English communication boards across Brazilian schools, parks and clinics.
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.
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.
