How to Make DIY Printable Communication Boards

Communication is at the heart of every child’s development — and for children with speech or language challenges, AAC communication devices open the door to understanding and expression. But what if you could create your own? With a DIY communication board, families can make personalized, meaningful tools that reflect their child’s unique world — from their favorite foods to beloved cartoon characters.

This guide shares free printable AAC board templates, expert design tips by age group, and how to combine DIY creativity with the professional quality of Joyreal AAC communication devices.

The Power of AAC Communication Devices

What Is an AAC Communication Device?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication — systems that help children and adults express themselves when speech alone isn’t enough. These can be digital devices, apps, or low-tech boards with icons representing words, emotions, and actions.

Why DIY Communication Boards Matter for Kids

While professional AAC devices are powerful, a DIY communication board offers something special — personal connection. Children feel more engaged when they recognize familiar icons like their favorite snacks, toys, or cartoon characters. It transforms communication practice into play.

Benefits of DIY Communication Boards

Encouraging Child Engagement and Creativity

When children participate in designing their own boards — choosing icons or colors — they become more motivated to use them daily. It’s a sensory, artistic, and communication-building activity in one.

Cost-Effective vs. Professional AAC Devices

DIY boards are an affordable entry point for families exploring AAC. You can start free and later upgrade to advanced Joyreal AAC communication devices for richer interaction.

Family Bonding Through DIY Activities

Creating a board together is a shared family project. It encourages understanding, teamwork, and emotional connection — every icon becomes a story you build together.

How to Create a DIY Communication Board Step-by-Step

Choosing Symbols and Icons: Aligning With Child’s Interests

Start with words that matter most in your child’s daily life.

Incorporating Favorite Toys, Foods, and Cartoon Characters

If your child loves dinosaurs or pizza, include icons for them. These recognizable visuals make learning intuitive and fun.

Ensuring Clarity and Simplicity in Symbol Design

Avoid clutter. Each icon should be simple, colorful, and clearly labeled.

Selecting the Right Materials for Durability

Use thick paper or cardstock, print in high quality, and consider laminating for longevity — especially if you’re working with younger children.

Printing, Cutting, and Laminating: DIY Made Easy

Free AAC board templates can be printed at home. Use scissors or a craft cutter for clean edges and attach icons with Velcro dots for rearranging flexibility.

Free Printable AAC Board Templates

Below are a few downloadable free printable AAC board ideas:

You can customize each by replacing default symbols with personal photos or child-preferred icons.

Design Differences by Age and Development Stage

• Preschoolers (2–5 years): Colorful & Playful Designs

Bright colors, large icons, and simple core words are best. Add cartoon-style drawings and expressive emojis.

• Elementary Kids (6–10 years): Structured & Visual Categories

Organize boards by themes like home, school, and play. Use symbols for actions (“run,” “eat”) and objects (“ball,” “apple”).

• Teens and Young Adults: Functional and Minimalistic Layouts

Use muted tones, clean icons, and real-life photos. Prioritize practicality — expressing opinions, needs, and feelings.

DIY vs. Ready-Made: Which Is Right for You?

Advantages of DIY Printable Boards

• Fully customizable
• Budget-friendly
• Great for quick learning environments

Benefits of Professional Boards like Joyreal AAC Devices

• Durable, medical-grade materials
• Intuitive, research-backed layouts
• Integrated digital voice output for advanced communication

Combining DIY Creativity With Joyreal Quality

Many families start with a DIY board and transition to a Joyreal AAC device. This hybrid approach builds familiarity first, then upgrades to long-term functionality.

Tips for Maximizing Your AAC Board’s Effectiveness

• Keep the same layout across boards to reduce confusion.
• Update icons regularly to match the child’s evolving interests.
• Encourage consistent use at home, school, and outings.
• Praise every communication attempt to boost confidence.

Conclusion: Empower Communication, Empower Your Child

Building your own DIY communication board is more than an arts-and-crafts project — it’s an act of love. You’re giving your child a voice, independence, and joy in being understood. Start with free printable AAC templates, and when ready, elevate your setup with Joyreal’s professional AAC devices — designed to grow with your child’s communication journey.

FAQs About DIY Communication Boards and AAC Devices

What is the difference between an AAC device and a communication board?

• An AAC device is electronic and often speaks aloud, while a board is a non-digital version using icons or pictures.

Can I use DIY boards as a supplement to professional AAC devices?

• Absolutely. Many families use DIY boards as backups or practice tools alongside digital AAC devices.

Where can I find free printable AAC boards?

• You can find free templates from educational AAC websites or professional brands like Joyreal’s resource page.

How can I make communication boards more engaging for my child?

• Personalize icons with your child’s favorite foods, toys, or TV characters. Engagement increases when boards reflect real interests.

What’s the ideal size for a child’s communication board?

• 8.5x11 inches works best for most children — portable yet readable.

Are Joyreal AAC devices compatible with DIY boards?

• Yes. Joyreal devices allow easy integration of personalized symbol sets from DIY templates.