Prompt cards

What is this method?

Why use this method?

• ✓ Makes abstract topics tangible

• ✓ Reduces pressure to respond immediately

• ✓ Supports different communication styles

• ✓ Creates natural conversation flow

• ✓ Works for current and future planning

• ✓ Helps focus discussions

• ✓ Enables deeper exploration of topics

• ✓ Reduces reliance on verbal communication

When to use it

• Daily activities and interests

• Living arrangements

• Education experiences

• Work and aspirations

• Relationships and friendships

• Community participation

• Future planning

• Support needs

• Leisure activities

• Independence goals

Running a session

What you'll need

Essential materials

• Pre-prepared topic collages

  • Physical cards or digital versions

  • Clear, relevant images

  • Mix of concrete and abstract pictures

• Display method

  • Physical cards

  • Table or wall space

  • Digital screen or whiteboard

• Recording materials

  • Notepaper

  • Sticky notes

  • Recording device (if agreed)

  • Camera for responses (if permitted)

Support materials

• Communication aids

• Quiet space items

• Sensory supports

• Break cards

• Additional relevant images

Session structure

1. Preparation (Before session)

• Create topic cards covering key themes

• Ensure images are appropriate and clear

• Prepare display method

• Set up recording system

• Arrange comfortable space

2. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Explain the activity

• Show example topic card

• Demonstrate how to respond

• Set ground rules

• Check communication preferences

3. Using the cards (30-45 minutes)

Step 1: Present topic

• Show one topic card

• Allow viewing time

• Point out different images

• Make connections clear

Step 2: Explore current experiences

• Use open questions

• Follow participant's interest

• Record responses

• Note nonverbal reactions

• Build on comments

Step 3: Consider future aspirations

• What might change

• Hopes and wishes

• Possible next steps

• Support needed

• Timeline ideas

Making it accessible

Topic card design

• Clear, uncluttered layout

• Mix of photo styles

• Cultural relevance

• Age appropriate

• Good contrast

• Large enough to see detail

Example topic cards

Fun and leisure

• Sports activities

• Creative hobbies

• Social activities

• Entertainment

• Outdoor activities

• Digital activities

Home life

• Different types of homes

• Room layouts

• Daily activities

• People and pets

• Local areas

• Transport options

Relationships

• Family groups

• Friendship activities

• Support workers

• Community helpers

• Social situations

• Communication methods

Discussion prompts

Current experience questions

• "What do these pictures make you think about?"

• "Which activities do you do?"

• "Who helps you with this?"

• "Where does this happen?"

• "What works well?"

Future planning questions

• "What would you like to try?"

• "Who could help with this?"

• "What might need to change?"

• "When would you like this to happen?"

• "What support would you need?"

Using the information

During session

• Note key points

• Record preferences

• Capture future wishes

• Document support needs

• Note barriers mentioned

After session

• Summarize findings

• Share appropriately

• Plan next steps

• Follow up actions

• Feed into planning

Success tips

1. Keep topics focused

2. Use relevant images

3. Allow plenty of time

4. Follow interests

5. Record carefully

6. Build on responses

7. Look for patterns

8. Note nonverbal cues

Troubleshooting

Common challenges

• Limited engagement

  • Try different topics

  • Use personal photos

  • Make connections to daily life

• Topic overload

  • Focus on one area

  • Take breaks

  • Split over sessions

• Unclear responses

  • Use communication aids

  • Check understanding

  • Try different questions