Communication boards helping children communicate, play and connect across Kent

Installed by Kent County Council's Kent Family Hub service, thirteen communication boards have now been installed in parks and community spaces in five districts across Kent. Using pictures, symbols and words, the boards help children express their thoughts, feelings, interests and needs, making it easier to play, interact and engage with others.

Communication boards can be used by everyone, including children with speech, language and communication needs, children who are learning to talk, and families who may benefit from visual communication support. Adults can model using the board by pointing to a picture or word as they say it, without expecting the child to copy or respond. For example, an adult might point to “more” and “swing” while saying, “More swinging?”

The initiative supports Kent's commitment to the Balanced System^® for Speech, Language and Communication Needs by creating environments that make communication easier.

Paul Webb, Cabinet Member for Integrated Children’s Services, said: "Every child deserves the opportunity to communicate, connect with others and enjoy the world around them.

‘These communication boards are a simple but effective way of supporting children and families in everyday settings. By providing communication support in parks and community spaces across Kent, we're helping to remove barriers and create more inclusive environments where children can learn, play and interact with confidence.

‘The boards are part of our wider commitment to giving children the best start in life and ensuring families can access support within their local communities."

Families can find communication boards at locations across Kent and access further information through the QR code displayed on each board.

For more information about communication boards and a map of locations across Kent, visit: www.kent.gov.uk/communicationboards