Communication Strips – A Visual Support Tool for Kids and Teens

Communication Strips A Visual Support Tool for Kids and Teens free pdf download

The Communication Strips Pack is a simple yet effective tool designed to help kids and teens express their needs, emotions, and thoughts in a clear and structured way. These visual communication aids are especially helpful for children who struggle with verbal communication, social interactions, or emotional expression. By using 180 large communication strips, young people can easily indicate their feelings, make requests, and interact with others in a way that suits their needs.

What’s Inside?

  • Basic Responses – Yes, No, Stop, Go, Wait. These help children respond quickly and clearly in different situations.
  • Needs and Requests – I want, I don’t want, I am hungry, I am thirsty, I need the bathroom. These strips allow children to express their basic needs without frustration.
  • Emotions and Feelings – I am happy, I am sad, I am mad, I am excited, I am scared, I am worried, I am embarrassed. These help children communicate their emotional state when words are difficult.
  • Daily Activities and Preferences – I want to play, I want to watch…, I want to go outside, I miss home. These strips support children in expressing their wants and routines.
  • Personal Care and Well-being – I feel sick, I have a headache, I need to cool down, I need to blow my nose. A useful way to let adults know when they need help with their health or comfort.
  • Social Interactions – Will you play with me? Can I keep…? Share with me, Let’s play again. These help children build connections and interact positively with others.
  • Locations and Movement – Go to the bathroom, kitchen, playground, classroom, bus, home. A simple way to tell adults where they need to go.
  • Descriptive Words and Questions – It’s hot, It’s cold, It’s broken, What?, Where?, How?, Why? Helps children describe objects, situations, and ask important questions.

How to Use This Resource

  • For Kids and Teens – Supports children who need a structured way to express their needs and feelings, whether at home, school, or in public spaces.
  • For Parents and Caregivers – A valuable tool to help children communicate more easily, reducing frustration and improving understanding.
  • For Teachers and Therapists – Can be used in classrooms, therapy sessions, speech and language development, and emotional regulation programs.
  • For Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support – Ideal for non-verbal children, autistic students, and those with speech, language, or developmental difficulties.

This communication support tool is designed to be portable, customisable, and easy to use. Whether a child struggles with speech, needs help expressing emotions, or benefits from visual learning, these strips offer a simple and effective way to improve communication, reduce anxiety, and support social interactions. They can be used at home, in school, or in therapy settings to help children and young people feel more confident and understood.

FREE PDF DOWNLOAD OF COMMUNICATION STRIPS – A VISUAL SUPPORT TOOL FOR KIDS AND TEENS


RELATED RESOURCES

Visual Supports for Autistic Children: A Practical Guide

Using visual supports is an evidence-based practice that helps autistic children by providing structure, consistency, and predictability in their daily routines. Since many autistic individuals are visual learners, tools such as first-then boards, visual schedules, wait mats, change cards, and adapted books can significantly enhance learning, communication, and independence.

This guide explains how visual supports reduce anxiety, aid in transitions, and promote self-regulation. It also introduces strategies like calming sequences, star charts for transitions, and sensory tools to help children stay regulated and engaged. Whether used at home or in the classroom, these supports create a more accessible and supportive learning environment for autistic children.

Visual Supports for Autistic Children: A Practical Guide