Carnival is a time full of color, music, and joy, but for children with language difficulties, this celebration can present a challenge in communication and interaction. However, with some adaptations and strategies, we can make Carnival a fun and inclusive experience for everyone .

If you work in an educational center, are a therapist, or are part of a family with a child who does not speak English, here we share ideas to make this holiday accessible and enriching.

🎭 1. Costumes with Augmentative Communication

Costumes are an essential part of Carnival, and we can use them to encourage communication. Some ideas include:

✔️ Thematic costumes with pictograms : For example, if the child is a firefighter, we can add images of "fire", "hose" or "water" to their costume so they can point out what they want to express.

✔️ Sign language props : Incorporating pictures with signs for key words like “happy,” “dance,” “friend” helps facilitate nonverbal communication.

✔️ Clothing with sensory textures : For children with tactile hypersensitivity, choosing costumes with soft and comfortable fabrics is key for them to enjoy without discomfort.

👉 In the VICON Method, we use signs and pictograms to complement language learning, which can be easily integrated into the Carnival costume experience.

🎶 2. Music and Rhythm to Encourage Interaction

Music is a powerful tool to stimulate communication in children without language. During Carnival, we can use songs with gestures and repetitive movements that facilitate participation.

✔️ Imitation dancing : Playing along with simple movements, such as clapping or swaying, fosters connection and joint attention.

✔️ Songs with signs : Including gestures in typical Carnival songs helps children express themselves in a fun way.

✔️ Percussion instruments : Using drums, maracas or tambourines allows children to communicate through rhythm.

👉 In the VICON Method videos, we work with music and rhythms that convey emotions and teach key words with signs, making learning more natural and meaningful.

🎨 3. Sensory Crafts for Non-Verbal Expression

Art activities are a great way to express themselves for children without language. Some options for Carnival include:

✔️ Textured masks : They allow you to experience different sensations and encourage creativity.

✔️ Painting with hands and sponges : Ideal for stimulating motor skills and allowing children to express emotions through colors.

✔️ Carnival necklaces or bracelets : They encourage fine motor skills and can be used as a tool for choice and preference.

🤹 4. Symbolic Games to Develop Communication

Play is a natural way of learning and communicating. During Carnival, we can use symbolic games that encourage interaction.

✔️ Role-playing : Acting out characters like pirates, superheroes, or wizards through gestures and movements.

✔️ Thematic station circuits : Spaces where children can explore different sensory and free play activities.

✔️ Turn-taking games : Using pictograms or signs to indicate who is next in an activity encourages understanding and interaction.

👉 Within the VICON Method, we work with interactive stories and imitation games that help children without language to integrate into activities like these in a more structured way.

Carnival can be a great opportunity to stimulate communication, expression and integration of children without language in an environment of play and enjoyment. With appropriate strategies and tools such as pictograms, signs, music and games, we can make this festival accessible and enriching for everyone.

If you are not yet part of our community, you can access the VICON Method program for free for 7 days , where you will find music videos, imitation games and practical strategies to stimulate communication in children without language .

🔹 How do you celebrate Carnival with children? Tell us in the comments or share this article with anyone who needs it. 😊