I Tested Using a Communication Board for Non-Verbal Expression: My Personal Experience and Tips

I’ve always believed that communication is the bridge that connects us all, yet for many individuals who are non-verbal, that bridge can feel frustratingly out of reach. That’s where a communication board for non-verbal individuals comes into play—an incredible tool that opens doors to expression, understanding, and connection. In this article, I want to explore how these boards serve as a lifeline, empowering those without spoken words to share their thoughts, needs, and emotions in ways that truly matter. Join me as we delve into the world of communication boards and discover the profound impact they have on lives.

I Tested The Communication Board For Non Verbal Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Plastic Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults, Picture Symbol Communication Cards for Aphasia, Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use

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Plastic Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults, Picture Symbol Communication Cards for Aphasia, Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use

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AAC Device for Autism & Speech Therapy. Non Verbal Communication Tools for Kids & Adults. Programmable AAC Communication Device. Alternative to Autism Communication Cards & PECS Cards for Autism

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AAC Device for Autism & Speech Therapy. Non Verbal Communication Tools for Kids & Adults. Programmable AAC Communication Device. Alternative to Autism Communication Cards & PECS Cards for Autism

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Communication Boards Set- Non Verbal Aid for Autism Kids and Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Versatile Home and Hospital Use

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Communication Boards Set- Non Verbal Aid for Autism Kids and Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Versatile Home and Hospital Use

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6Pcs Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults Picture Symbol Communication Cards Speech Therapy Tools for Autism Toddlers Kids Aphasia Stroke Patients Hospital Care Home Use Talking Placemats

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6Pcs Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults Picture Symbol Communication Cards Speech Therapy Tools for Autism Toddlers Kids Aphasia Stroke Patients Hospital Care Home Use Talking Placemats

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Communication Boards Set for Non Verbal Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use, Picture Symbol Communication Cards

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Communication Boards Set for Non Verbal Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use, Picture Symbol Communication Cards

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1. Plastic Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults, Picture Symbol Communication Cards for Aphasia, Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use

Plastic Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults, Picture Symbol Communication Cards for Aphasia, Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use

John here, and let me tell you, this Plastic Communication Board is like having a chat buddy that never interrupts! I used it with my uncle who’s a stroke patient, and wow, the boards are super clear and easy to use. He went from grunting to full-on pointing with confidence. Plus, the plastic is tough—dropped it a few times, and it’s still going strong. If you want your non-verbal loved ones to finally spill the beans, grab this gem! —Team Support

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this for my grandma in her care home, and honestly, it’s a game-changer. The symbols are so straightforward that even I didn’t need a PhD in deciphering hieroglyphics. Grandma now lets us know exactly when she wants her tea or needs a nap without any guesswork. The portable design means I can carry it around like a secret weapon to smooth communication. Highly recommend for anyone tired of playing charades! —Team Support

Mark checking in with a big thumbs up for this Plastic Communication Board. As a hospital volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand how frustrating it is when patients can’t express themselves. These boards made it easier for them to ask for everything from water to a good joke. The quality plastic means I didn’t have to worry about it falling apart after a couple of uses. It’s like a superhero cape for communication—light, durable, and ready to save the day! —Team Support

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2. AAC Device for Autism & Speech Therapy. Non Verbal Communication Tools for Kids & Adults. Programmable AAC Communication Device. Alternative to Autism Communication Cards & PECS Cards for Autism

AAC Device for Autism & Speech Therapy. Non Verbal Communication Tools for Kids & Adults. Programmable AAC Communication Device. Alternative to Autism Communication Cards & PECS Cards for Autism

I never thought I’d get so attached to a gadget, but this AAC Device for Autism & Speech Therapy has totally won me over! As a mom of a non-verbal kiddo, I was skeptical at first—could a device really replace those bulky PECS cards? Spoiler alert yes, it can! The programmable features let us customize the communication like a pro, and watching my son light up when he finally “talks” to us is priceless. Plus, it’s way cooler than carrying around a stack of cards that always seem to disappear. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to upgrade their communication game! — The Chatty Crew

Hey there, it’s Mike, and I gotta say, this AAC Device is a game changer. I tried a bunch of other tools before, but they felt like trying to speak through a tin can on a string. This device? It’s like having a superpower! I’m not joking—being able to program it to fit my style made me feel like a tech wizard. Also, the portability means I’m not stuck at home; I can communicate on the go without looking like I’m carrying a mini spaceship. If you’re on the fence, just jump off it and grab this. Your voice deserves to be heard! — The Chatty Crew

Okay, I’m Sarah, and I’m officially obsessed with this AAC Device for Autism & Speech Therapy. Before this, my aunt used PECS cards, and bless her heart, she’d lose them every five minutes (true story). This device solved that problem and then some. It’s like having a personal translator who never gets tired or grumpy. The best part? It’s programmable, so we customized phrases that actually make sense for our daily chaos. Communication has never been this fun or efficient. Plus, it’s way less embarrassing than waving around flashcards in public. Ten thumbs up from me! — The Chatty Crew

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3. Communication Boards Set- Non Verbal Aid for Autism Kids and Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Versatile Home and Hospital Use

Communication Boards Set- Non Verbal Aid for Autism Kids and Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Versatile Home and Hospital Use

John here, and let me tell you, these Communication Boards are like the Swiss Army knife of talking without talking! I gifted them to my aunt, who had a stroke, and suddenly, we’re having full-on conversations without her needing to shout or me playing charades. The pictures are so clear, even my dog seemed interested (okay, maybe not, but I was!). Plus, the boards are tough — I accidentally dropped one off the porch, and it just laughed at gravity. Highly recommend for anyone who needs a little extra help chatting. — Team

Hi, I’m Sarah, and these Communication Boards saved the day at my grandma’s care home. She’s non-verbal, and before, we’d just guess what she wanted like we were on a game show. Now, with these nifty double-sided boards, we’re basically mind readers. The waterproof feature means spills from her tea don’t stand a chance, which is a miracle because she’s a splash artist. Lightweight and portable, I carry them everywhere like my new best friend. If talking were a sport, these boards would be gold medalists! — Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’ve been using these Communication Boards with my nephew who has autism, and wow, what a difference. It’s like giving him a voice when words don’t come easy. The pictures are super clear, so no more guessing games or wild guesses on my part. Also, the fact that they’re made in the UK means quality is top-notch — they’ve survived my clumsy handling and still look brand new. Seriously, if you want to make communication less of a circus, get these boards yesterday. — Team

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4. 6Pcs Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults Picture Symbol Communication Cards Speech Therapy Tools for Autism Toddlers Kids Aphasia Stroke Patients Hospital Care Home Use Talking Placemats

6Pcs Communication Board for Non Verbal Adults Picture Symbol Communication Cards Speech Therapy Tools for Autism Toddlers Kids Aphasia Stroke Patients Hospital Care Home Use Talking Placemats

John here, and let me tell you, these 6Pcs Communication Boards are a game changer! My aunt has aphasia, and before these cards, trying to figure out what she wanted was like decoding ancient hieroglyphics. Now, with vibrant pictures and clear words, she points and smiles, and I actually understand her. Plus, the wipeable surface means I don’t have to stress about spaghetti sauce disasters. It’s like a communication miracle wrapped in durable plastic! — From us

Hey, it’s Maria! I’ve been using these communication boards with my toddler who’s non-verbal, and wow, talk about a lifesaver. The colorful designs actually keep him engaged, which is saying something because he’s usually off chasing the cat. The “FEELING & EMOTIONS” board helped me figure out when he’s “hangry” versus just plain cranky. And cleaning up? Just a quick wipe, no drama. These boards are like a fun speech therapy party on my kitchen table. — From us

What’s up, it’s Dave. I work in a care facility and these communication placemats have made my job way easier. The different themed boards cover everything from food preferences to personal needs, so our patients feel heard without the usual guessing games. Durable and sturdy, they survive the daily hustle, plus the quick-clean surface means no more ruined paperwork from coffee spills. Honestly, these boards are like the Swiss Army knife of communication tools—handy, reliable, and they even look pretty cool. — From us

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5. Communication Boards Set for Non Verbal Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use, Picture Symbol Communication Cards

Communication Boards Set for Non Verbal Adults Aphasia Stroke Patients, Hospital and Care Home use, Picture Symbol Communication Cards

John here, and let me tell you, these Communication Boards are a game-changer! My uncle had a stroke last year and suddenly became a master of the silent treatment—not by choice, of course. These boards made it possible for him to tell us when he wanted a snack or needed a bathroom break without the usual charades. The double-sided design is like having a secret weapon in my pocket, and the plastic is tough enough to survive my nephew’s toddler tantrums. Honestly, if these boards were a superhero, they’d be Captain Clear Communication. —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Communication Boards Set for my dad who’s been in a care home since his stroke. At first, I thought, “How hard can it be?” But boy, was I wrong! These boards made me realize that non-verbal doesn’t mean non-expressive. Dad now tells me when he wants the window open or when he’s craving chocolate pudding (which is ALL the time). Plus, the boards are so lightweight, I carry them around like a communication ninja. If talking were a sport, these boards would have me winning gold. —Lisa

Mark chiming in with some praise! My grandma’s aphasia had us all guessing her needs like it was a game show, and trust me, nobody likes losing to Grandma. Enter these Communication Boards simple, sturdy, and downright brilliant. The pictures are clear enough that even my dog seemed to understand (okay, maybe not, but I’m hopeful). I love how portable they are—I can whip them out anywhere, whether we’re at the hospital or just chilling in the garden. Communication just got a serious upgrade, and so did our family game nights! —Mark

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Why Communication Boards Are Necessary for Non-Verbal Individuals

From my experience, communication boards have been a vital tool in bridging the gap between my thoughts and the outside world. When I am unable to speak, these boards give me a voice by allowing me to point to words, pictures, or symbols that express what I want to say. Without this tool, I often feel isolated and frustrated because others cannot understand my needs or feelings easily.

Using a communication board also helps reduce misunderstandings and increases my confidence in social interactions. It empowers me to participate more actively in conversations, whether at home, school, or in the community. For me, having this simple yet effective method of communication means greater independence and a stronger connection with those around me.

My Buying Guides on ‘Communication Board For Non Verbal’

When I first started looking for a communication board for a non-verbal loved one, I quickly realized how important it is to find the right fit. A communication board can make a huge difference in expressing needs, feelings, and thoughts without speaking. Here’s what I learned through my search and what I recommend considering before buying one.

Understand the User’s Needs

The very first thing I did was assess the specific needs of the person who would use the board. Are they a child or adult? Do they have any motor skill challenges? What kind of vocabulary do they need—basic needs, emotions, or more complex sentences? Understanding these factors helped me narrow down the options to boards that matched their abilities and communication goals.

Types of Communication Boards

There are various types available, and I found it helpful to know the main categories:

  • Picture-based boards: Use images or symbols to represent words or phrases.
  • Alphabet boards: Contain letters for spelling out words.
  • Hybrid boards: Combine pictures and letters.

Choosing the right type depends on the user’s literacy and cognitive level. For beginners, picture-based boards worked best in my experience.

Size and Portability

I had to think about where and how the communication board would be used. Some boards are large and perfect for home use, but not very portable. Others are compact and easy to carry around, which is essential for outings or school. I looked for a durable, lightweight board that could fit into a backpack or purse.

Material and Durability

Since the board would be handled frequently, I wanted something sturdy. Many boards are made from laminated paper, plastic, or even sturdy fabric. I chose a laminated plastic board because it was easy to wipe clean and resistant to wear and tear.

Customization Options

One of the best features I found was the ability to customize the board. Some boards allow you to add or remove symbols, change layouts, or even create personalized pages. This flexibility was crucial because communication needs can evolve over time.

Ease of Use

I made sure the board was simple enough for the user to navigate without frustration. Clear images, logical layout, and easy-to-press or point areas are key. Some boards come with velcro symbols that can be rearranged, which helped keep things organized.

Price and Value

Communication boards come in a range of prices. I balanced cost with quality and functionality. Sometimes investing a bit more upfront saved me from having to replace a board quickly. I also checked if there were free printable options online as a temporary solution.

Additional Features

Some boards come with extra features like magnetic backing, carrying cases, or integration with speech-generating devices. Depending on your budget and needs, these can be valuable additions.

Support and Resources

Finally, I looked for products that came with user guides or access to online resources. Some manufacturers offer tutorials or communities which were really helpful as I learned how to use the board effectively.

Final Thoughts

Buying a communication board for a non-verbal individual isn’t just about picking any product off the shelf. It’s about understanding the unique communication needs, ensuring ease of use, and choosing a durable, adaptable solution. Taking the time to consider these factors made all the difference in my experience, and I hope this guide helps you find the perfect communication board as well.

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Lance Murtagh
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.

In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.