What Did You Say? What Do You Mean?

Expressions that don’t literally mean what they say can be confusing for many children, but can be fun when they become familiar. Metaphors are particularly challenging for children with Asperger Syndrome (AS), because they tend to be literal thinkers. These cards can enable children with Asperger Syndrome to enjoy metaphorical language too. Using metaphors may also help children with AS to be more flexible and creative in the way they understand and use language.

What Did You Say? What Do You Mean? metaphor cards present 60 common sayings in a fun, illustrated format, encouraging children to understand and play with metaphorical language. Although designed with children with Asperger Syndrome in mind, the cards are useful for all children. The cards are divided into two types: What Did You Say? cards which feature the metaphor and a fun illustration of its literal meaning, and corresponding What Do You Mean? cards which show the actual meaning of the saying. The accompanying booklet contains information and ideas for games and activities.

Enjoyable and educational, these cards are great for teachers or parents to use in groups or in one-to-one sessions with children aged 8+.