The Village of Wellington has installed four visual communication boards, with one in each of the following places: Scott’s Place Playground, Tiger Shark Cove Park, Town Center and Village Park. These innovative boards are designed to enhance communication for nonverbal children and individuals who benefit from visual aids, which creates a more welcoming and supportive environment for all park visitors.

Visual communication boards empower individuals by providing tools to express their needs, emotions and ideas. Using pictures and symbols, the boards:

• Facilitate independence by allowing users to communicate without relying solely on caregivers or others to interpret non-verbal cues
• Bridge communication barriers, which fosters better interactions with peers and families
• Enable users to express not just basic needs but also complex ideas and emotions
• Support language development by associating symbols with spoken words
• Promote emotional regulation and social interaction, helping to reduce frustration and enhance connection

The boards are not only a resource for nonverbal children but are also beneficial for younger children learning to communicate. They also provide a communication vehicle for individuals of all abilities seeking an engaging and visual way to express themselves.

The project was made possible through a partnership with the Palm Beach School for Autism, whose expertise ensured the boards meet the diverse needs of the community. Their contribution has helped extend the School’s mission of support and empowerment into Wellington’s public spaces.

“Our parks are more than just places to play; they’re spaces where our community connects and grows together,” said Village Manager Jim Barnes. “These communication boards represent Wellington’s commitment to fostering understanding and accessibility for all who visit.”