Rainy River District School Board

Welcome to the Rainy River District School Board Playground Communication Board!

This Playground Communication Board was developed to provide accessible communication and social language opportunities for all students, families, and community members who use our playgrounds and fields.

Communication boards are created to promote inclusion and support all learners.

They feature some of the most frequently used words in communication, known as “core words.” These words—such as pronouns, action words, questions, feelings, and locations—can be combined to form a wide variety of sentences. This particular board includes many core words, along with phrases related to playground activities, games, and social interactions.

To support communication, you can point to the words on the board as you say them aloud. This models language for students and helps them learn how to express themselves. For children who have difficulty speaking, using the board can help them communicate their needs, participate in play, and connect with others.

Aided Language Stimulation Explained - Video

Modeling Without Explanation - Video

What is Modeling?

Modeling is the practice of using an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tool to communicate with someone who uses AAC. These tools can include an iPad with a communication app, an eye gaze device, or a core vocabulary board—like our Playground Communication Board.

To support AAC users, it’s important that they see how these tools are used in real conversations. By pointing to words on the board as we speak, we show them how to use AAC to share ideas, make comments, and express thoughts—not just to answer questions.

Modeling Language on the Playground Communication Board

When modeling language using the Playground Communication Board, it’s important to speak in grammatically correct sentences. This helps students learn how words fit together in natural speech. Below are examples of phrases you might model, along with how to say them aloud:

Words on the Board - What to Say Aloud When Modeling
I want ball - “I want the ball.”
I cold - “I am cold.”
Go in - “Time to go in.”
My turn play - “It’s my turn to play.”
She happy - “She is happy.”
He hurt - “He got hurt.”
Where teacher - “Where is the teacher?”
I go up - “I am going up.”
Catch ball - “Catch the ball.”
Play game - “Let’s play a game.”

By modeling complete sentences, you help students see how individual words come together to express clear thoughts and ideas. Make modeling part of play to keep learning fun and engaging!