1️⃣
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this
module, learners will:
Understand what non-verbal communication is.
Learn to use pictures, symbols, and cards to support
communication.
Recognize emotions and needs without relying on speech.
Know how to ask questions and check understanding safely.
Understand how to use Traffic Light Cards + Emotion / Problem
/ Urgency cards.
2️⃣
Introduction
Some people cannot communicate verbally.
They may have learning disabilities, autism, neurological
conditions, or anxiety.
Pictures and words are a way for them to express
feelings, needs, or concerns.
🖼 Picture
idea: A participant pointing to a card with a happy face.
3️⃣ Key
Tools
a) Traffic Light Cards
🟢 Green – I want to speak
🟡 Yellow – I have a question
🔵 Blue – I need more time
🔴 Red – Please slow down
🟣 Purple – I need a break
b) Emotion / Feeling
Cards
🙂 Happy, 😢 Sad, 😡 Angry, 😨 Anxious, 😌 Calm, 🤔 Confused, 😷 Pain
c) Problem / Topic Cards
Sleep, Eating, Home/family, Relationships, Medication, Safety
d) Severity / Urgency
Cards
🟢 Mild, 🟡 Moderate, 🔴 Severe
4️⃣ How to
Communicate
Ask simple questions:
“Which card shows how you
feel today?”
Give time to respond.
Check understanding:
“I see you’re anxious. Is
that right?”
Use body language and gestures to reinforce words.
Be patient — non-verbal communication may take longer.
🖼 Picture
idea: A staff member sitting at eye level with participant pointing to
cards.
5️⃣
Practice Exercises
Role-play: One person is non-verbal, others use cards to
communicate.
Emotion recognition: Match faces to feelings using cards.
Problem triage: Use topic cards to decide what to talk about
first.
Traffic Light exercises: Practice raising cards in a simulated
group.
6️⃣ Tips
for Staff / Students
Always check for understanding.
Keep language simple and visual.
Allow extra time.
Encourage pointing, gestures, and eye contact.
Combine pictures + words + colour coding.
Make it consistent — same cards and symbols used every
time.
7️⃣
Reflection / Quiz
True / False:
Non-verbal people cannot communicate.
Pictures and words can help someone express themselves.
You should wait for them to choose a card.
Body language doesn’t matter.
Multiple Choice:
5. A purple card means:
A) I want to speak
B) I need a break
C) I am confused
What can help someone communicate if they cannot talk?
A) Pictures & words
B) Talking faster
C) Ignoring them
Answers:
False
True
True
False
B
A
8️⃣
Optional Visual / Printable Resources
Traffic Light Card templates
Emotion & Problem Card templates
Step-by-step communication guide
Posters for staff rooms or classrooms
Role-play instruction sheets
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