Free printable communication boards for autism
5 pre-built core vocabulary boards designed for autistic and nonspeaking kids. Customize any board in the free Core Board Maker, or download the print-ready PDF. No email required.
Beginner core board
A 12-cell starter board with the words a new communicator reaches for first.
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Standard core board
A 20-cell core board with requests, people, and feelings for everyday communication.
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Full core board
A 30-cell core vocabulary board with verbs, people, nouns, and feelings.
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AAC core words board
A 30-cell AAC core words board built from pronouns, verbs, and little words.
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Classroom core board
A 20-cell classroom communication board for turn-taking, help, and bathroom needs.
View template →How to use these communication boards
- Pick the board closest to your child's vocabulary, starting small if they are new.
- Click Customize in Maker to swap words, change colors, or resize, then download your version. Click Print PDF to get the board as-is.
- Print on cardstock, then laminate the sheet so it survives daily handling.
- Print a copy for every room or setting your child spends time in.
- Model on the board. Point to a word as you say it, every day, so your child learns where each word lives.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a communication board?
- A communication board is a single page of words and symbols in fixed positions that a nonspeaking or minimally speaking child points to in order to communicate. Because the layout never changes, the location of each word becomes a cue the child learns over time.
- Are these communication boards really free?
- Yes. Every board downloads as a free print-ready PDF, no email required. You can also customize any board in the free editor: swap a word, change the colors, or switch between sizes, then download your version.
- Which board should I start with?
- If your child is new to a communication board, start with the beginner core board. Twelve words is enough to ask, refuse, and comment without overwhelming a new communicator. Move up to the standard or full board once the first set is reliable.
- What is the difference between a core board and PECS cards?
- A core board is one page a child points to, with every word in a fixed spot. PECS cards are separate pictures a child hands to a partner. Many families use both: a core board for everyday vocabulary and PECS cards for specific requests.