How to Use PECS with Your Autistic Child

Introduction:

Parenting a child with autism comes with its unique set of challenges, particularly in fostering effective communication. Implementing a Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a widely used method that helps nonverbal or minimally verbal individuals with autism to communicate. This blog will explore Implementing PECS techniques effectively with your child and its benefits.

Understanding PECS:

Implementing PECS is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system designed for individuals with communication difficulties. It relies on exchanging pictures or symbols to initiate communication. The PECS approach typically involves six phases:

• Phase 1 – The Physical Exchange: In this phase, the child learns to exchange a picture for a desired item or activity. The adult prompts the child to pick up a specific picture card (e.g., a picture of a favorite toy) and hand it to them in exchange for the desired item.
• Phase 2 – Discrimination Training: The child learns to discriminate between different symbols and understand their meanings. This phase helps them grasp the concept that different pictures represent different items or actions.
• Phase 3 – Spontaneous Requesting: Here, the child starts to use PECS independently to initiate communication without prompts from adults. They learn to approach others and hand them a picture to convey their needs or desires.
• Phase 4 – Sentence Structure: This phase introduces the concept of sentence structure using PECS. Children learn to combine multiple picture symbols to form simple sentences, such as “I want juice” or “I need help.”
• Phase 5 – Responding to “What Do You Want?” Questions: The child learns to respond to questions asking what they want or need by selecting the appropriate picture card from their PECS book.
• Phase 6 – Commenting and Asking Questions: In this final phase, the child learns to use PECS for commenting on their environment or asking questions.

Implementing PECS with Your Child:

1. Start Simple: Begin with a small set of highly motivating pictures representing items or activities your child enjoys. This could include favorite toys, snacks, or activities.
2. Create a PECS Book: Develop a PECS book or communication board using pictures of items relevant to your child’s daily life. Ensure that the pictures are clear and easily recognizable.
3. Provide Structured Practice Sessions: Set aside structured practice sessions each day to work on PECS with your child. Keep these sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest and attention.
4. Use Visual Supports: Incorporate visual supports such as visual schedules and visual cues to enhance understanding and communication. These supports can help your child anticipate activities and navigate their environment more effectively.
5. Encourage Independence: Gradually fade prompts and support as your child becomes more proficient with PECS. Encourage them to initiate communication independently and praise their efforts.
6. Be Patient and Persistent: Learning to use PECS takes time and consistent practice. Be patient with your child and celebrate their progress, no matter how small. Stay persistent and continue to reinforce their use of PECS in various settings.

Benefits of Implementing PECS:

• Provides a structured approach to communication development.
• Encourages independence and self-expression.
• Reduces frustration by giving the child a means to communicate their needs and desires.
• Can be customized to suit the individual preferences and abilities of each child.

Alternative Communication Strategies:

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS):

• PECS is a systematic approach that uses pictures or symbols to facilitate communication.
• It enables nonverbal individuals to initiate communication by exchanging picture cards to express their needs, desires, and preferences.
• PECS can be customized to suit the individual’s communication level and preferences, making it a versatile tool for enhancing communication skills.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices:

• AAC devices range from simple communication boards to high-tech devices with voice output capabilities.
• These devices allow nonverbal individuals to select symbols or words to form messages, which are then synthesized into speech or displayed on a screen.
• AAC devices can be tailored to accommodate various communication needs and preferences, providing a means for nonverbal individuals to communicate effectively in different contexts.

Sign Language:

• American Sign Language (ASL) and other forms of sign language offer nonverbal individuals a visual means of communication.
• Sign language utilizes hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey messages and facilitate interaction.
• Learning sign language provides nonverbal individuals with a valuable tool for expressing themselves and understanding others, fostering social connections and independence.

Visual Supports and Pictorial Aids:

• Visual supports, such as visual schedules, choice boards, and social stories, offer nonverbal individuals with autism visual cues to navigate daily activities and social interactions.
• Pictorial aids, including picture cards, symbols, and visual prompts, enhance comprehension and communication by providing concrete representations of concepts and instructions.

Gesture and Body Language:

• Gesture and body language play a crucial role in nonverbal communication, allowing individuals to convey meaning through movements, gestures, and facial expressions.
• Nonverbal individuals with autism may use gestures and body language to express their needs, preferences, and emotions, facilitating communication in various contexts.

Conclusion:

PECS is a valuable tool for promoting communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder. By implementing PECS effectively and providing consistent support and encouragement, parents can help their children develop essential communication abilities and enhance their quality of life. Remember to tailor the approach to suit your child’s unique needs and strengths, and celebrate each milestone along the way.

FAQs:

What is the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)?

The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a communication method using picture symbols for individuals with communication difficulties, such as autism, to initiate and request items, activities, or information by exchanging pictures with a communication partner.

How do I start using PECS with my child?

1. Begin with highly motivating items.
2. Present a picture of the desired item and prompt your child to exchange it for the item.
3. Reinforce successful exchanges with the requested item.
4. Gradually expand to new items and activities, reinforcing each exchange.

What types of visuals should I use with PECS?

1. Actual photos of items.
2. Simple line drawings.
3. Icons or symbols representing concepts or activities.
4. Color-coded or labeled visuals for clarity.

How can I encourage my child to use PECS?

1. Making PECS accessible and visible.
2. Using motivating items or activities.
3. Providing immediate reinforcement for successful exchanges.
4. Modeling PECS use and praising attempts.

How do I track progress with PECS?

1. Keep a log of the number of successful exchanges.
2. Note the types of requests your child makes.
3. Monitor the complexity of requests over time.
4. Record any improvements in independence and communication skills.