Outdoor Communication Cards

Purpose of the Project

OCO’s card sets are designed to support children and adults with communication, learning and/or emotional challenges. They provide a simple way to express needs, preferences, and experiences while enjoying outdoor activities. The design studio’s focus on imagery related to camping, wildlife and popular outdoor adventures enables us to share a comprehensive library of communication card that result in higher levels of enjoyment of Oregon’s great outdoors. These cards can be used for teaching new vocabulary words, planning, engaging with others, and discovering what brings joy to those who struggle to communicate.

Educational Benefits

The Visual and Verbal Communication Cards we design offer significant educational value for children with communication challenges:

• Language Development: The cards help children expand their vocabulary by associating words with clear images, aiding memory retention and understanding.
• Communication Skills: By providing a means to express needs and preferences, the cards empower children to communicate more effectively, particularly those who struggle with verbal communication.
• Social Interaction: Using the cards in group settings encourages social interaction among peers, helping children initiate conversations and engage in collaborative play.
• Cognitive Skills: Selecting and using the cards promotes cognitive development by teaching children to categorize items, recognize patterns, and make connections between words and images.
• Emotional Expression: The cards allow children to express their feelings and emotions in an easy way, which is especially beneficial for those who find it challenging to articulate their thoughts verbally.
• Engagement with Nature: By incorporating imagery related to the Oregon Coast’s environment, the cards encourage children to explore and engage with nature, fostering curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
• Inclusive Learning Environment: The cards provide tools that cater to diverse communication needs, ensuring that all children can participate in outdoor activities and learning experiences.

Benefits for Caretakers, Parents, Teachers, and Youth Organizations

We strive to ensure our card topics and concepts provide valuable benefits not only for individuals with special needs but also for their caretakers, parents, teachers, and organizations that facilitate outings and field trips:

• Improved Communication: The cards facilitate more effective communication between individuals with special needs and their caretakers, reducing frustration and misunderstandings.
• Educational Resources: The cards serve as educational tools for caretakers and teachers, helping them learn about the unique interests and needs of the individuals they care for.
• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Using the cards can help reduce stress for both individuals with special needs and their caretakers during daily activities and interactions.
• Community Engagement: The cards promote inclusion by providing a way for individuals with special needs to participate in more activities and events, fostering a sense of belonging.
• Facilitating Outings: For teachers, churches, and organizations that go on outings, the cards provide a structured way to engage individuals with special needs, ensuring they can fully participate in group activities and outings.

Communication Card Set Features

• Easily Recognized & Handy Images: Our cards feature a wide range of visuals, including camping gear (RV, tent, campfire), wildlife (fish, seals, starfish), common field trip and outdoor cooking food items (hot dogs, hamburgers), and fun outdoor activities (hiking, fishing, birdwatching). We make it easy to choose the cards you need and take off on any imaginable journey with relevant images of your choice.
• User-Friendly Design: Each card is designed with bright colors and clear images to ensure they are easily recognizable and engaging for children. You may laminate them, modify them, add velcro, use them to display a visual schedule and create excitement while promoting understanding.
• Educational Value: The cards not only facilitate communication but also serve as an educational tool to teach children about the Oregon Coast’s unique environment and wildlife.