Hyperlexic learners thrive on routine and structure so transitions can often be challenging.
For instance, transitioning from one activity to another at school, leaving the house for errands, or leaving the playground can be quite stressful and overwhelming for them.
But, using visual supports, using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and writing things down can go a long way to support hyperlexic learners. Especially if you also factor in that they're gestalt language processors and use a lot of echolalia to communicate.
And that's where these it's time to go communication boards can come in handy. They are a great way to support hyperlexic learners with transitions while also giving them the language they need to communicate their needs.
About the Free It's Time to Go Communication Boards
As mentioned above, this set of communication boards is designed with gestalt language processors and hyperlexic learners in mind and are great for kids, teens, and adults to use. Below you will find five versions included:
- One with 16 colorful clipart images paired with a written phrase or potential gestalt
- One with 13 colorful clipart images paired with a written phrase or potential gestalt and 3 blank boxes to write and draw your own
- One with 16 blank boxes to write or draw your own
- One with 16 written phrases or potential gestalts
- One with 13 written phrases or potential gestalts and 3 blank boxes to write and draw your own
Simply print off the page that will be the best fit for your needs, fill in any blank boxes (if applicable), and laminate for durability. Be sure to keep these tips in mind, though, when writing your own phrases or potential gestalts.
Once printed, customized, and laminated, tape it to a door at home or in the classroom, attach it to a lanyard to take on the go (you might want to print it off at half the size in this case), add it to a communication binder, etc.
The phrases can then be read and/or pointed to as a way to communicate one's needs. And parents or caregivers can point and model different phrases as they get ready to leave.