About
WHAT IT IS 🦆
What is Cognitively Accessible Signage
Cognitively accessible signage is a specialized type of signage that aims to create a universal and inclusive experience for all individuals, regardless of their cognitive abilities or language proficiency. These signs are thoughtfully designed to be easily understood by a wide range of people, including those with various cognitive, developmental, or communication challenges.
At the core of cognitively accessible signage are the use of universally recognized symbols and simple, clear visuals that transcend language barriers. These symbols are carefully chosen to convey essential messages, making the signs easy to comprehend, regardless of one’s background, age, or cognitive abilities. By minimizing the reliance on text and emphasizing visual communication, cognitively accessible signage opens doors to greater inclusivity in public spaces.
WHO IT HELPS 🦆
Who are Cognitively Accessible Signs For
Cognitively accessible signage fosters inclusivity and access for all. It benefits:
Individuals with Cognitive Disabilities: Cognitively accessible signage provides a crucial communication tool for those with cognitive disabilities, allowing them to access essential information independently and confidently.
Families and Caregivers: Families and caregivers of individuals with cognitive challenges can rely on these signs to enhance their loved one’s independence and sense of belonging in public spaces.
Educators and Schools: Schools can utilize cognitively accessible signage to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment. It enhances students’ comprehension and engagement.
Tourists and Foreign Language Speakers: International tourists and foreign language speakers benefit from signs that use universally understood symbols. These signs help them navigate unfamiliar places with ease.
Public Spaces and Venues: Businesses, municipalities, and public spaces can enhance accessibility by implementing cognitively accessible signage, making their environments more welcoming and user-friendly.
Cognitively accessible signage is not just a niche solution; it’s a transformational approach to communication that makes public spaces more inclusive, user-friendly, and accessible to all, regardless of their cognitive abilities or language background.
WHERE TO FIND IT 🦆
Where Can Cognitively Accessible Signage be Used
Cognitively accessible signage serves as a versatile and invaluable tool that can be implemented in a wide range of public spaces and facilities. Its adaptability and ease of understanding make it suitable for various environments, including but not limited to:
Playgrounds: Cognitively accessible signage at playgrounds ensures that children of all abilities can understand and enjoy the equipment and activities. It encourages inclusive play and cooperation.
Parks: Public parks benefit from these signs by providing clear directions, safety guidelines, and information on amenities in a universally understandable format, promoting an inclusive outdoor experience.
Zoos: Zoos use cognitively accessible signage to offer information about animals, exhibits, and facilities in a format that is easily comprehensible to diverse visitors, including those with cognitive disabilities.
Medical Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities utilize these signs to guide patients, visitors, and staff, simplifying navigation and promoting efficient communication of vital information.
Schools: Cognitively accessible signage in educational institutions creates an inclusive learning environment. It helps students, teachers, and visitors find their way, access information, and engage with the school community.
Libraries: Libraries use these signs to guide visitors, showcase important sections, and provide information on services and resources in a universally understandable manner.
Public Transportation: Train stations, bus stops, and airports integrate cognitively accessible signage to assist travelers with clear directions, information on schedules, and access to essential services.
Community Centers: These facilities benefit from these signs by promoting accessibility, communication, and engagement for all members of the community.
Tourist Attractions: Museums, cultural centers, and tourist attractions make use of cognitively accessible signage to enhance the visitor experience, whether local or international.
Retail Stores: Retailers implement these signs to help shoppers find their way around stores, locate specific products, and access essential information.
Restaurants and Cafes: In eateries, cognitively accessible signage can provide menus, ordering instructions, and facilities information that is easily understood by all patrons.
Government Buildings: Public offices, courthouses, and government facilities use these signs to facilitate accessibility, information dissemination, and efficient service delivery.
Recreational Facilities: Gyms, swimming pools, and sports arenas make use of these signs to enhance accessibility, promote safe participation, and guide users effectively.
Tourist Destinations: Whether it’s a landmark, historical site, or tourist destination, these signs support visitors by providing clear and concise information.
Cognitively accessible signage can be applied in a multitude of settings, making it a crucial aspect of creating inclusive, accommodating, and easily navigable environments. Its universal appeal and ability to enhance communication are transforming public spaces into more welcoming and accessible locations for all individuals, regardless of their cognitive abilities or language backgrounds.
Why IT’s IMPORTANT 🦆
Why Cognitively Accessibly Signs Matter
Cognitively accessible signage plays a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity and enhancing communication within public spaces. The significance of this signage can be seen through several compelling reasons:
Universal Understanding: Cognitively accessible signage is designed with simplicity in mind, utilizing symbols and visual cues that transcend language barriers. This universal approach ensures that everyone, regardless of their cognitive abilities or language proficiency, can access and comprehend the information being conveyed.
Inclusivity: Inclusive environments foster a sense of belonging and engagement among all individuals, irrespective of their cognitive capabilities. Cognitively accessible signage actively promotes inclusion, creating a welcoming atmosphere for people with diverse needs.
Empowering Independence: Accessible signage empowers individuals to navigate public spaces independently. By providing clear directions and information, it reduces the reliance on others for assistance, enhancing personal autonomy.
Enhancing Safety: In medical facilities, schools, parks, and various other public spaces, cognitively accessible signage aids in communicating vital safety information. It ensures that everyone can understand and follow safety guidelines, reducing risks and enhancing overall well-being.
Supporting Learning: Schools, libraries, and educational institutions benefit from accessible signage by facilitating learning opportunities. These signs simplify the process of finding classrooms, resources, and information, promoting a conducive learning environment.
Tourism and Inclusivity: In tourist destinations and cultural sites, accessible signage enhances the visitor experience. It allows individuals with various backgrounds and languages to access historical or cultural information easily.
Community Building: Accessible signage contributes to building stronger communities by ensuring that all members have equal access to resources, information, and opportunities. This promotes a sense of belonging and cohesion.
Compliance with Accessibility Standards: As accessibility standards and regulations evolve, businesses, institutions, and public spaces are recognizing the importance of cognitively accessible signage. Utilizing cognitively accessible signs demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity beyond most legal requirements.
Enhancing Quality of Life: Accessible signage impacts the quality of life for individuals with cognitive disabilities, their families, and communities. It promotes meaningful participation in various aspects of society and fosters a sense of independence and self-worth.
THe Difference between 🦆
Cognitively Accessible Signs vs. Playground Communication Boards
Cognitively accessible signs and playground communication boards share the common goal of promoting inclusion and communication among children of all abilities. However, they differ in several ways:
Design and Purpose: Cognitively accessible signs are often designed specifically for outdoor public spaces, such as playgrounds, parks, and recreational areas. They provide clear visual cues to convey essential information and directions for people of all cognitive abilities. On the other hand, playground communication boards are typically tools that cater to children with specific communication needs. They often use symbols, pictures, and words to help non-verbal or minimally verbal children express themselves.
Placement: Cognitively accessible signs are strategically placed within public spaces to provide directions, information, and engagement opportunities for all visitors. They can and often are used in playgrounds but are placed strategically within the environment so symbols are used and understood contextually within the activity. In contrast, a playground communication board is usually located in a fixed position on a playground to facilitate interaction for children with communication challenges.
Universal Understanding: Cognitively accessible signs prioritize universal understanding. They employ symbols, visuals, and easy-to-grasp content to ensure that anyone, regardless of their language proficiency or cognitive abilities, can access and comprehend the information. Playground communication boards, while beneficial, often use unfamiliar symbol sets and may not be as universally understood.
Scope of Application: Cognitively accessible signs extend beyond playgrounds to various public spaces such as schools, libraries, parks, medical facilities, and more. They are intended to make these spaces more inclusive and engaging for everyone. In contrast, playground communication boards are primarily limited to enhancing communication within child recreational areas.
Materials and Durability: Cognitively accessible signs are constructed with durable materials designed to withstand exposure to the elements, ensuring their longevity and effectiveness in outdoor settings. Playground communication boards, while well-constructed, may not be as resilient over the long term due to their large size making them more susceptible to weather and more obvious targets for vandalism.
Why Choose Us 🦆
Specialists in Accessible Signage
At Inclusive Icons, our passion is to create positive change through accessible and inclusive design. Founded by a seasoned Speech-Language Pathologist with expertise in Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), our mission is to make public spaces universally understandable and welcoming.
With a background in AAC and a deep understanding of communication challenges, she recognized the need for clear and meaningful signage to bridge the gap between diverse abilities. Drawing on this unique specialization, Inclusive Icons was born.
Our commitment is to design symbols and signs that facilitate cognitive accessibility, enabling individuals of all abilities to engage with their surroundings independently. By collaborating closely with communities and organizations, we customize solutions that enhance accessibility, enrich experiences, and foster inclusivity.
Through years of experience, dedication, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of — and fundamental human right to — communication, we’re here to transform public spaces into spaces of unity and understanding, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive.
HOW IT WORKS 🦆
Step by Step to Inclusive Spaces
Learn how we can transform your community spaces into inclusive environments for all abilities with this 4-step process. Together we can make public spaces more accessible for everyone in your community.
Collaborative Consultation
Imagine your public space coming to life with educational and inclusive signs. During our collaborative consultation, we engage in thoughtful conversations to truly grasp your community’s essence, goals, and unique challenges. This collaboration forms the solid foundation on which we build, ensuring every subsequent step is tailored to your needs and aspirations, paving the way for crafting truly inclusive spaces.
Design & Symbol Integration
Our experienced team brings your vision to life by creating attractive, accessible signage that effectively educates and informs through designs that add to your community’s already unique appeal. To enhance messages and understanding, we seamlessly integrate easily recognized symbols from our library. These symbols act as bridges, helping people of all abilities connect with the information conveyed by the signs.
Custom Signage Production
With designs finalized, and with your approval, we move into the production phase. Using cutting-edge technology and quality materials, we create tangible signage that embodies your community’s identity. Each piece is carefully crafted to seamlessly incorporate the chosen designs and symbols, using quality materials for indoor and outdoor use, resulting in impactful communication tools that can withstand the elements and public use.
Installation & Empowerment
Whether it’s your dedicated team or ours, the next phase brings your inclusive spaces to life. Our skilled professionals strategically install the signage, enhancing pathways and surroundings. This step empowers your community by facilitating easy navigation and fostering understanding. Your spaces become more inclusive, inviting everyone to explore and engage, as the impact of accessible signage comes to life.