PECS stands for Picture Exchange Communication System. It is a structured communication system that teaches individuals—especially non-verbal people—how to communicate using pictures.
🧩 What is PECS?
PECS allows a person to communicate by giving a picture of something they want to another person, instead of using speech. Over time, the person learns to use pictures to make requests, express feelings, answer questions, and even build full sentences.
🧠 Who is PECS for?
PECS is often used with:
- Autistic individuals
- Non-verbal children and adults
- People with developmental disabilities
- Students with speech and language delays
📘 How PECS Works (6 Phases)
PECS is taught in six clear phases, starting simple and becoming more complex:
1. Making a Request
- The learner gives a picture (e.g. a picture of an apple) to ask for what they want.
2. Increasing Effort
- They learn to find the picture and approach the person, even if it’s not directly in front of them.
3. Choosing Between Pictures
- The learner is given multiple pictures and learns to choose the right one (e.g. between water and crisps).
4. Building Simple Sentences
- The learner begins using a sentence strip like: “I want” + [picture of toy]
5. Answering Questions
- They learn to answer “What do you want?” using the PECS system.
6. Commenting and Expanding Language
- The student can make comments like: “I see a dog” or “I feel happy”
🧰 What Do You Need for PECS?
- Laminated pictures (objects, actions, feelings)
- Velcro board or binder
- Sentence strip
- Highly motivating objects (e.g., favourite toys or snacks)
🎯 Why PECS is Powerful
- It gives non-verbal individuals a way to express themselves.
- Helps reduce frustration and challenging behaviors.
- Encourages social interaction and independence.
Would you like a printable starter PECS set or visual examples for the phases?
Maurvik 