Visual Support Lanyards For Church
Visual support lanyards are a practical tool for volunteers and ministry leaders to use in kids' ministry or disability ministry to support students with receptive and expressive language needs at church.
These lanyards typically feature a set of cards attached to a key ring that volunteers or buddies can wear to support special needs in church.
The cards on the lanyard include symbols such as:
Communication symbols: Stop, Yes/No, Break
Directional Symbols: Quiet, Sit on the floor, Stand up, No climbing, etc.
Pictures of key areas or activities: Bathroom, Large Group, Small Group, Playground
When to Use the Visuals:
During transitions, such as moving between classrooms or activities.
To clarify instructions for tasks, crafts, or games.
When redirecting behavior or providing positive reinforcement.
To help students express needs, especially if they are nonspeaking.
How to Use:
Show the visual card as you give verbal instructions.
Simplify verbal instructions and pair the visual card with a simple verbal statement.
Point back to the card as needed while the student responds to the request, direction, transition, etc.
Use the cards to prompt receptive language (understanding) by pointing to an action or place.
Encourage students to use the cards for expressive language (communication) by pointing to a card to indicate their needs or wants.
Why It Helps:
Reduces overwhelm from multi-step directions
Gives additional support for visual processors
Builds volunteer and student trust and relationships
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Looking for more ways to support students with disabilities at church? Check out Awe & Wonder’s Adapted Bible Curriculum.
