Nonverbal Communication Cards

Nonverbal Communication Cards serve as essential tools in bridging communication gaps, especially for individuals who face challenges in oral communication. This complete guide delves into various nonverbal communication examples, offering practical and effective ways to enhance interpersonal interactions. Whether for educational purposes, therapeutic sessions, or personal use, these cards embody a unique approach to expressing thoughts and emotions without words, reinforcing the importance of visual and assertive communication in our daily lives.

What is Nonverbal Communication Cards?

Nonverbal Communication Cards are visual tools designed to aid those who struggle with or are unable to use spoken language. These cards typically feature images, symbols, or words that represent common ideas, emotions, or requests, facilitating a form of visual communication. They are instrumental in helping individuals express their needs, feelings, and thoughts, thereby enhancing their ability to interact with others.

What is the best Example of Nonverbal Communication Cards?

One of the best examples of Nonverbal Communication Cards is a set specifically designed for children with autism. These cards often include detailed pictograms or illustrations representing daily activities, feelings, needs, and common objects. For instance, a card might show a picture of a glass of water to express thirst, or an image of a book to indicate the desire to read.

Nonverbal Communication Cards Examples

Nonverbal Communication Cards are invaluable tools in facilitating non-spoken dialogue, especially for individuals with speech or language difficulties. These cards, rich in visual communication symbols, offer a seamless way to express needs, emotions, and ideas. They are pivotal in enhancing interpersonal communication and effective communication in diverse settings.

1. “I’m Hungry” Card: Features an image of a plate with food.
   Example: Pointing to the card during meal times to express hunger.
2. “Thirsty” Card: Shows a glass of water.
   Example: Use when feeling thirsty to request a drink.
3. “Bathroom” Card: Depicts a toilet symbol.
   Example: Present this card to indicate the need to use the restroom.
4. “Happy” Emotion Card: Illustrates a smiling face.
   Example: Show this card when feeling happy or content.
5. “Sad” Emotion Card: Displays a sad face.
   Example: Use this card to express feelings of sadness or discomfort.
6. “Play” Card: Shows toys or a playground.
   Example: Point to this card to express the desire to play.
7. “Sleepy” Card: Features a bed or a sleeping symbol.
   Example: Use when feeling tired and wanting to sleep.
8. “Pain” Card: Depicts a symbol indicating discomfort.
   Example: Point to the specific area on the card where pain is felt.
9. “Yes” Card: Simple checkmark symbol. Example: Use to affirmatively respond to a question or suggestion.
10. “No” Card: Shows a cross symbol.
    Example: Use to negatively respond or decline something.
11. “Help” Card: Illustrates a helping hand.
    Example: Display this card when needing assistance.
12. “School” Card: Shows an image of a school building.
    Example: Use to indicate the desire or need to discuss school-related topics.
13. “Friend” Card: Depicts two people holding hands.
    Example: Present this card to express a desire to play or interact with friends.
14. “Angry” Emotion Card: Features a frowning face.
    Example: Use to convey feelings of anger or frustration.
15. “Scared” Emotion Card: Illustrates a scared face.
    Example: Show this card when feeling scared or anxious.
16. “Doctor” Card: Shows a medical symbol.
    Example: Use to indicate a need to discuss health issues or visit a doctor.
17. “Clothes” Card: Depicts various clothing items.
    Example: Point to specific clothing items on the card to choose what to wear.
18. “Stop” Card: Features a stop sign.
    Example: Use to indicate the desire for an activity or interaction to stop.
19. “Go” Card: Shows a green light or ‘go’ symbol.
    Example: Use to express the readiness to proceed with an activity.
20. “Listening” Card: Illustrates an ear.
    Example: Show to indicate attentive listening or the need to be heard.
21. “Speaking” Card: Depicts a mouth or speech bubble.
    Example: Use to indicate the desire to speak or communicate verbally.
22. “Music” Card: Shows musical notes or an instrument.
    Example: Use to express a desire to listen to music or play an instrument.
23. “Home” Card: Depicts a house symbol.
    Example: Use to express the desire to go home or talk about home-related topics.
24. “Book” Card: Features an image of a book.
    Example: Show this card to indicate the desire to read or discuss a book.
25. “Computer” Card: Illustrates a computer or tablet.
    Example: Use to express the need or desire to use electronic devices.
26. “Exercise” Card: Shows symbols of sports or exercise. Example: Use to express the desire to engage in physical activity.
27. “Phone” Card: Depicts a telephone.
    Example: Use to indicate the need or desire to use the phone.
28. “TV” Card: Features a television set.
    Example: Use to express the desire to watch TV or discuss television-related topics.
29. “Family” Card: Illustrates a family group.
    Example: Show to discuss family members or express the desire to be with family.
30. “Feelings Chart” Card: Displays a range of emotions.
    Example: Use to identify and communicate specific emotions being felt.

Communication Cards for Nonverbal Students

Communication cards for nonverbal students are specialized tools enhancing educational communication. These cards bridge the gap in interpersonal communication, offering students who struggle with verbal expression a way to participate actively in the classroom.

1. “Question” Card: Features a question mark.
   Example: A student can show this card when they have a question or don’t understand a topic.
2. “Break” Card: Shows a pause symbol.
   Example: Use this card to request a short break from classroom activities.
3. “Emotion Spectrum” Card: Displays a range of emotions.
   Example: Students can point to the specific emotion they’re feeling to express themselves better.
4. “Classroom Activity Choices” Card: Lists common classroom activities.
   Example: Students can indicate their preferred activity during free or group time.
5. “I Need Help With…” Card: Features different academic subjects. Example: Students can point to a subject they need help in, like math or reading.
6. “Classroom Rules” Card: Shows key classroom rules.
   Example: Students can use this card to remind peers or themselves of the classroom norms.
7. “My Work” Card: Illustrates a desk with various tasks.
   Example: Students can use this to indicate a specific task they are working on or need to complete.
8. “Feeling Overwhelmed” Card: Depicts a stressed character.
   Example: Use this card to signal feeling overwhelmed or needing a moment to calm down.
9. “Group Work” Card: Shows symbols representing teamwork.
   Example: Students can show this card when they prefer to work in groups or need a partner.
10. “Recess Activities” Card: Lists options for recess.
    Example: Students can point to their preferred activity for recess, like playing ball or reading.

Printable Non Verbal Communication Cards for Adults

Printable nonverbal communication cards for adults are designed to facilitate effective communication in various settings. These cards are ideal for adults who face challenges in verbal communication, providing a dignified and straightforward way to express themselves.

1. “Medical Needs” Card: Features common medical symbols.
   Example: This card can be used to communicate specific health concerns or needs.
2. “Work-Related” Card: Depicts different workplace scenarios.
   Example: Useful in communicating specific work-related needs or tasks.
3. “Emotional Support” Card: Shows different forms of support.
   Example: Use this card to indicate the need for emotional support or a conversation.
4. “Daily Routine” Card: Illustrates typical daily activities.
   Example: Helps in communicating plans or needs regarding daily activities.
5. “Transportation” Card: Features various modes of transport.
   Example: Use this card to indicate travel preferences or requirements.
6. “Food Preferences” Card: Shows different food items.
   Example: Ideal for communicating dietary preferences or restrictions in various settings.
7. “Safety and Comfort” Card: Depicts symbols of safety and comfort.
   Example: Use to communicate feelings of discomfort or a need for safety measures.
8. “Leisure Activities” Card: Lists common leisure activities.
   Example: Use to express interest in or desire to engage in leisure activities.
9. “Shopping Needs” Card: Shows common shopping items.
   Example: Useful for communicating specific needs or preferences while shopping.
10. “Feelings and Well-being” Card: Displays a range of emotions and wellbeing symbols. Example: Use to express current emotional state or general well-being.

Communication Cards for Nonverbal Toddlers

Communication cards for nonverbal toddlers are vital in helping young children express their basic needs and emotions. These cards are designed with simple, clear images suitable for a toddler’s understanding, promoting early communication skills.

1. “More” Card: Features a symbol for ‘more’.
   Example: Toddlers can use this card to indicate they want more of something, like food or play.
2. “All Done” Card: Shows a finished symbol.
   Example: Useful for toddlers to communicate when they have finished an activity or meal.
3. “Favorite Toy” Card: Depicts popular toys.
   Example: Toddlers can point to their preferred toy or plaything.
4. “I Feel” Card: Displays basic emotions.
   Example: Helps toddlers in expressing their feelings, like happy, sad, or tired.
5. “Bedtime” Card: Illustrates bedtime symbols.
   Example: Toddlers can use this card to indicate they are ready for bed or bedtime routines.
6. “Dressing” Card: Shows different clothing items.
   Example: Useful for toddlers to choose or refuse certain clothing items.
7. “Pet Interaction” Card: Depicts common household pets.
   Example: Toddlers can use this to express a desire to play or interact with pets.
8. “Bath Time” Card: Shows bath-related items.
   Example: Indicates a toddler’s readiness or reluctance for bath time.
9. “Snack Choices” Card: Features various snack options.
   Example: Toddlers can point to their snack preferences.
10. “Outdoor Activities” Card: Lists simple outdoor activities.
    Example: Use to communicate a toddler’s interest in outdoor play or activities.

What Should Be Included in a Non Verbal Communication Card?

When designing nonverbal communication cards, the key is to ensure they are clear, understandable, and relevant to the needs of the user. These cards should be a bridge in effective communication, particularly for those who struggle with verbal expression.

1. Simple and Clear Imagery: Each card should contain a single, easily recognizable image that represents a specific idea, action, or emotion. This imagery is the cornerstone of visual communication, helping to convey the message quickly and effectively.
2. Minimal Text: If text is used, it should be minimal and straightforward. This assists in assertive communication by making the intention of the card clear without overwhelming the user with too much information.
3. Consistent Size and Shape: The cards should be uniform in size and shape to provide a consistent tactile experience, especially important for users with visual impairments.
4. Durable Material: Considering the frequent handling, the cards should be made of durable material, such as laminated paper or plastic, to withstand regular use.
5. Color Coding: Using different colors for different categories of communication (e.g., emotions, requests, activities) can enhance the usability of the cards, making them more intuitive for interpersonal communication.
6. Culturally Appropriate Content: The imagery and content should be culturally sensitive and appropriate, ensuring that they resonate with the users’ backgrounds and experiences.
7. Personalization Capability: The option to customize or add personal images can make the cards more relatable and effective for individual users, catering to their unique communication styles and needs.
8. Sequential and Logical Arrangement: For sets of cards used to build sentences or complex ideas, a logical and sequential arrangement is vital. This helps in forming coherent messages, enhancing the communication process.
9. Symbols for Common Needs and Emotions: Basic needs like hunger, thirst, rest, and common emotions should be represented, as these are fundamental in daily interpersonal communication.
10. Safety and Emergency Symbols: Include symbols for emergencies or safety concerns, which are crucial for quick and effective communication in critical situations.

In conclusion, Nonverbal Communication Cards play an indispensable role in bridging communication gaps, particularly for individuals with oral communication challenges. These cards, encompassing a variety of images, symbols, or words, are not just tools for expression but pivotal elements in enhancing interpersonal interactions across different age groups and settings.

To further explore the impact and development of such communication aids, especially in educational contexts, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) offers extensive resources and research. Additionally, for a broader understanding of nonverbal communication’s role in various professional and therapeutic environments, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) provides comprehensive information and guidelines. Both these platforms are rich in content that adds significant value to anyone interested in the field of nonverbal communication and its practical applications