Communi-crate
Communi-crate is a communications toolkit. This page of our website explains what each of the tools are. You can also view a short video clip showing all the tools in a Hearing room. Please note, some of the tools might be slightly different depending on each Hearing centre.
So, what is Communi-crate?
Communi-crate is a box of items which you can use to help share your thoughts and feelings at your Children’s Hearing. You might want to use the items to help you tell the Hearing how you feel or you might just want to hold the items in your hand – you can do any of these things!
Why do we have Communi-crate?
Lots of children and young people can find it difficult to share their thoughts and feelings at their Children’s Hearing. The items are to help make it easier for them. You don’t have to use any of the items, it is completely your choice.
Message Monster
A child or young person can ‘feed’ their messages to the monster. This can be used before or during the Hearing. It can also be used just as a comfort and something to hold. They, SCRA staff or favoured person attending can write down any questions or worries they have and feed them to the monster to be discussed with the Panel Members during the Hearing.
The white board
The whiteboard can be given to the child or young person to write down any questions or comments before or during the hearing. Ensuring the panel consider these comments at appropriate points in the hearing.
Emotion Cards
There are a range of emotion cards available. The Bears are useful for very young children. Each card has a different emotion included.
Emotion Bean Bags
There are 10 tactile emotion bean bags which can be played with and talked about. Very good for fun interactions between the panel and the child or young person.
Communication Fan
We have a range of communication fan resources available. These are visual tools which can help children and young people to express themselves in a non-verbal way. Like traffic lights.
My Feelings Cards
These are a set of simple cards showing emotions through words and faces. They are designed to help children and young people identify, express, and communicate feelings safely, especially when speaking feels difficult.
Ear Defenders
Although not a communication tool, ear defenders can help children and young people in their Hearing, particularly if they are Neurodivergent.
Sunglasses
Similar to ear defenders, sunglasses can help manage visual sensory overload, help young people feel safer and less overwhelmed, plus support emotional regulation and participation.
Pens & Coloured Paper
These can be used by children and young people to draw or write their views or any questions. Often used as a distraction from the content of the Hearing, but the children and young people will be paying attention to what’s being said.
