Playground Wins:
A Free Printable Toolkit for Real-Life Families
Some days, the goal is simple: just get to the playground. But when you’re parenting a neurodiverse child, “simple” often comes with a whole list of steps, emotions, and real-life detours. That’s exactly why I created this toolkit.
The Playground Wins Toolkit is a free visual support package designed for kids who thrive with structure—and the grown-ups who thrive with coffee and realistic expectations.
What’s Inside
This set includes two visual tools that work beautifully together or on their own:
🛝 1. Going to the Playground: A Social Story
A calming, visual walk-through of what a playground trip might look like. Ideal for preparing kids for the steps, the social rules, and the brave moments that come with play.
Includes matching icon visuals from the story, such as “ask for a turn,” “explore,” “listen,” and more — perfect for extending understanding or using as visual cues at home.
- Real-life language
- Kid-friendly illustrations
- Gentle pacing
Here’s a peek at some of the visuals from the story:
🌟 2. Playground Token Board: Build Your Way to Play
A reward-style visual board that helps kids stay on track with daily tasks. Each completed task earns a playground piece (slide, swing, etc). When all five are earned? You guessed it: it’s time to play.
- Includes tokens and instructions
- Simple and flexible
- Can be reused with Velcro or tape
Who It’s For
This toolkit was created with kids like Jimmy in mind—children with Down syndrome, autistic learners, and anyone who benefits from structure, visuals, and consistency.
But honestly? It’s for any family trying to get through the day with a little more calm and a little less chaos.
How to Use It
You can use the tools together or separately:
- Read the Social Story before a playground trip to prep and set expectations
- Use the Token Board throughout the day to help your child track tasks or routines that earn the outing
👉 Full instructions for the token board are included.
📥 Download the Toolkit
Reminder from One Real-Life Parent to Another
Every brave moment—big or small—is a Little Win. This isn’t about perfection. It’s about support that works in real time, for real families.
Thanks for being here. And if this helped? Please feel free to share it with another parent who might need a little visual calm in their day.
Follow along for more:
📘 Facebook: @LittleWinsWithJimmy
🌐 KarenDavisMatthews.com
