How a Basic Needs Communication Board Supports Nonverbal Students Daily

When working with nonverbal or minimally verbal students, finding a simple, effective way to help them communicate can be life-changing. That’s where a basic needs communication board comes in. This printable AAC tool is designed to support daily interactions by giving students access to essential vocabulary and encouraging meaningful exchanges.

What is a Basic Needs Communication Board?

A basic needs communication board is a visual support tool that features core vocabulary words in a simple, easy-to-understand layout. Our board includes 15 big icons, specifically chosen to help students express their wants and needs throughout the day. It’s ideal for use in speech therapy sessions, special education classrooms, early intervention, and even at home.

What’s Included?

This communication board set includes:

✅ 15 Large, Easy-to-See Icons, including:

• Want

• Help

• All Done

• More

• My Turn / Your Turn

• Break

• Play

• Eat

• Drink

• Restroom

• And More!

  
  

✅ Two Versions of the Communication Board:

• A Standard Printable Board, ready to use

• A Customizable Board where you can add the student’s name for a personal touch

  
  

✅ Bonus Training Handouts for educators and caregivers. These handouts walk you through six simple steps to teach students how to use the communication board:

1. Introduce the Board

2. Model How to Use It

3. Create Opportunities for Communication

4. Build on Their Words

5. Make It a Habit

6. Celebrate Their Success

   
   

Why This Communication Board is So Effective

This beginner AAC tool is designed with accessibility and simplicity in mind. The large icons and clear visuals make it easier for students to locate and point to what they need. It’s a great resource for:

• Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and SLPAs

• Special education teachers

• Paraprofessionals

• Parents and caregivers

  
  

Whether you're in a classroom, therapy session, or home environment, this visual communication support encourages students to advocate for themselves in meaningful ways.

How to Use It Daily

Using the board consistently is key. Start by modeling how to use it during familiar routines like snack time, playtime, or transitions. Over time, students begin to associate words with actions and feelings, building confidence in expressing their basic needs.

The included AAC training handouts make it easy for teams to stay consistent and collaborative, ensuring the student receives support across all settings.

A Step Toward Independent Communication

Giving students access to a basic needs AAC board isn’t just about language—it’s about empowerment. This board creates a bridge to self-advocacy, connection, and daily participation in classroom and home routines.

If you're looking for a printable AAC resource that is beginner-friendly and easy to implement, this basic needs communication board with large icons is a powerful starting point.

Get Yours Today!

Check out the product HERE

---

📩 Join My Community!

📩 Join my email list for more SLPA and school-based speech tips!

➡️ Check out my Teachers Pay Teachers store for more resources!

➡️ Check out my Etsy store for unique speech therapy materials!

➡️ Check out my Boom Learning store for interactive speech therapy activities!

---

About the Author

Hi! I’m Kim, and I’ve been a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) for nearly a decade. I have a B.S. in Speech-Language Pathology and have worked in elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools, providing services to students in general education and special day classes. I created this blog to share my experiences and help other SLPAs navigate their school-based speech therapy journey.