The Centerville-Washington Park District (CWPD) is proud to announce the installation of three new communication boards at playgrounds across the district, all made possible through generous support from community partners. These colorful, symbol-based boards are now available at Activity Center Park, Forest Field Park and Iron Horse Park.
Communication boards are designed to assist individuals with communication challenges—including non-verbal children, early learners and non-English speakers—by offering a visual tool to express needs, feelings and ideas. Users can point to images on the board to communicate, encouraging interaction and social connections with peers.
“The addition of communication boards is another step toward making our parks welcoming and inclusive for everyone,” said Kristen Marks, CWPD Executive Director. “These tools help foster connection, ensuring every child can play, express themselves and feel a sense of belonging in our outdoor spaces.”
Each board contains commonly used phrases, emotions and activities relevant to a playground setting. The locations were selected based on existing inclusive park features, like adaptive equipment and accessible surfaces.
Centerville resident Natalie Long says, “Our oldest son, Hunter is on the spectrum. He communicates verbally and using a communication device. We are so excited have the communication boards to utilize at our favorite parks! Thank you, Centerville-Washington Park District, for making our community accepting and inclusive!”
The communication boards at Forest Field Park and Iron Horse Park were funded through a grant from the Mark A. Kreusch Memorial Fund, whose mission is to enrich the lives of children by investing in programs, facilities and services that provide children the opportunities and resources to grow, learn and play in a safe and healthy environment. The Activity Center Park board was generously donated by the Foundation for Centerville-Washington Parks, a foundation dedicated to securing philanthropic funding for projects, programs and conservation efforts directly related to the Centerville-Washington Park District’s mission, vision and values.
Media inquiries? Please contact Carrie Dittman, Marketing & Communications Supervisor at 937-433-5155.