Prompt cards

What is this method?

Prompt cards are visual collages that help start and guide discussions about different aspects of life. They use images to make abstract topics more concrete and help people share their experiences and hopes for the future.

Why use this method?

• Makes abstract topics tangible
• Reduces pressure to respond immediately
• Supports different communication styles
• Creates a 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

Perfect for discussing

• 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, a mix of concrete and abstract pictures
• A display method: physical cards, table or wall space, or a digital screen or whiteboard
• Recording materials: notepaper, sticky notes, a recording device (if agreed), a camera for responses (if permitted)

Support materials

• Communication aids
• Quiet space items
• Sensory supports
• Break cards
• Additional relevant images

Session structure

1. Preparation (before the session)

• Create topic cards covering key themes
• Make sure images are appropriate and clear
• Prepare a display method
• Set up a recording system
• Arrange a comfortable space

2. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Explain the activity
• Show an example topic card
• Demonstrate how to respond
• Set ground rules
• Check communication preferences

3. Using the cards (30 to 45 minutes)

Step 1: present the topic

• Show one topic card
• Allow viewing time
• Point out different images
• Make connections clear

Step 2: explore current experiences

• Use open questions
• Follow the 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 the session

• Note key points
• Record preferences
• Capture future wishes
• Document support needs
• Note barriers mentioned

After the session

• Summarise 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

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

Remember, every response adds valuable insight into experiences and aspirations.