Giving Every Child a Voice: Pinkerton Park Welcomes New Communication Board
New Communication Board at Pinkerton Park Bridges the Gap for Inclusive Play
FRANKLIN, TN – Families visiting Pinkerton Park will now notice a vital new addition designed to make play more inclusive for everyone. A permanent communication board has been installed at the playground to support children and individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).
The board features a vibrant array of pictures, symbols, and words that allow users to express wants, needs, and ideas in real-time while engaging in outdoor play. While these boards are life-changing for individuals with speech delays, autism, apraxia, or other communication differences, they serve as a universal tool—encouraging language development and social interaction for all children.
“This board helps give children a voice while they play,” said Michelle Wolford, Patient Care Coordinator with Rise Up Therapies. “Our hope is that it creates more opportunities for connection, understanding, and joyful interaction among children of all abilities.”
The installation is part of a growing movement to ensure Franklin’s public spaces are accessible and welcoming to every member of the community. Beyond its physical presence, the board is backed by clinical research showing that visual aids reduce frustration and foster meaningful peer engagement in playground settings.
"I am so excited about this opportunity for the Franklin community. Visuals are a powerful tool that can spark communication and connection. I hope that everyone who encounters this board has a positive experience!” said Grace Ott, the Speech-Language Pathologist who assisted in the board's design.
This project was made possible through a partnership between Rise Up Therapies, Friends of Franklin Parks, and TheCity of Franklin Parks & Recreation Department.
“It's been wonderful to hear stories from families that have utilized communication boards we put in Spring Hill Parks, and we look forward to hearing similar stories here in Franklin,” said Loriann Schwartz, owner of Rise Up Therapies. "We are so grateful to the Friends of Franklin Parks and the City of Franklin Parks and Recreation Department who saw this vision and are providing the funding to bring it to life for the benefit of Franklin Families and their children."
Families are encouraged to explore the board together and model its use during playtime. No prior experience is needed—only curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to communicate in new ways.
Media Contact:
Loriann Schwartz, Owner and Speech Language Pathologist
info@riseuptherapies.orgwww.riseuptherapies.org
615-241-0122
About Rise Up Therapies
Rise Up Therapies in Franklin is a leading provider of pediatric therapy services in Middle Tennessee, specializing in speech, occupational, and feeding therapy. With a mission to bring hope to families with a team that truly cares, the clinic focuses on holistic, play-based interventions that help children reach their full potential at home, in school, and in their community. Led by a team of dedicated clinicians, Rise Up Therapies, and their sister company, Arise Therapies, have been serving families in Middle Tennessee for 10 years.
About Friends of Franklin Parks
Friends of Franklin Parks is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Franklin’s open spaces and enhancing its park system through private-public partnerships. By funding capital improvements and community-led projects, the organization ensures that local parks remain world-class destinations for recreation, history, and nature. Their mission is to bridge the gap between the city’s resources and the community’s vision, creating accessible and vibrant spaces for all residents to enjoy.
About the City of Franklin Parks & Recreation Department
The City of Franklin Parks & Recreation Department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by providing exceptional parks, recreational programs, and community spaces. Through thoughtful planning, stewardship, and community engagement, the department works to maintain Franklin’s beautiful parks while creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to play, explore, and connect. From historic sites and scenic greenways to sports facilities and family-friendly events, the department strives to create welcoming spaces that support recreation, wellness, and community for everyone.