Coatney Creations

Hi, I'm Candice, founder of Coatney Creations and creator of HandyTalker® communication tools.

I believe everyone deserves a way to communicate, no matter their age, abilities, or circumstances.

How HandyTalker® Began

HandyTalker® started with a simple idea: communication tools should be practical enough to go wherever life takes you.

The inspiration came after learning about a neighbor's daughter who has apraxia and needed a durable communication tool that could be used at the beach.

I realized there was a need for affordable, waterproof communication cards that could go places where traditional communication tools might not be practical.

That idea became HandyTalker® — compact, durable, screen-free visual communication cards designed for everyday life.

Using pictures and words, HandyTalker® cards give individuals a simple way to express their wants, needs, choices, and feelings by pointing to the appropriate symbols.

Today, our communication cards support everyday activities at home, in schools, while traveling, and throughout the community.

The Inspiration Behind HandyBeacon™

As HandyTalker® grew, I began thinking about another group of people who could benefit from practical communication tools: adults and seniors.

This mission is especially personal to me.

My mother, Debbie, lived with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Watching someone you love experience the challenges of Alzheimer's gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of communication, independence, and dignity.

I wanted to create tools that could help individuals communicate their everyday needs and preferences, while also making those interactions easier for families and caregivers.

That inspiration led to HandyBeacon™, our collection of visual communication and daily living tools designed specifically for adults, seniors, and those who care for them.

From communication boards and books to daily routine displays and dining aids, HandyBeacon™ reflects my belief that even simple tools can create meaningful opportunities for connection.

HandyBeacon™ is more than a product collection. It's a tribute to my mother and a continuation of our mission to help every voice be heard.

Our Mission

At Coatney Creations, our goal is to make practical, affordable communication tools accessible to the people who need them.

Whether it's a child communicating in the classroom, a family enjoying a day at the beach, or a senior expressing a need to a caregiver, we believe communication should be as simple and accessible as possible.

No batteries. No charging. No Wi-Fi.

Just thoughtful communication tools designed for real life.

Making Communication Easier — because every voice matters.