You may have heard of PECs, but if you’re not sure what it is, don’t worry! This short blog will help you understand more about the Picture Exchange Communication System and how it can benefit your child. We’ll also provide some tips for using PECs and useful links on where to get them.
What Is PEcs?
PECS stands for Picture Exchange Communication System. It’s a form of alternative communication that uses pictures to help individuals with communication difficulties express their needs and wants. PECS is commonly used by individuals with autism, developmental delays, and other communication challenges.
Using PECs can help your child:
- Express themselves more easily, reducing frustration and stress.
- Build social skills and increase independence.
- Communicate more effectively with others.
Things to try when starting to use PECs:
If you’re new to using PECs, here are some tips to get started:
- Choose a small set of picture cards to begin with, focusing on the items or activities that your child is most interested in.
- Keep the cards in a special book or binder, known as a PECS communication book.
- Your child may need the actual item or a photo of the actual item they use before understanding a representational image.
- Start by teaching your child how to select the appropriate picture card and hand it to you to indicate what they want or need.
- Over time, you can teach your child to sequence and combine different picture cards to form more complex sentences and communicate more effectively.
Tips for the more established PECs user:
If you’ve been using PECs for a while, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure to update your child’s PECS book regularly to reflect their changing needs and interests.
- Encourage your child to use PECs in a variety of settings and with different people, to build their communication skills and confidence.
- Consider using PECs alongside other forms of communication, such as sign language or speech therapy, to create a more comprehensive communication system.
Useful links:
If you’re looking for resources and printable PECs cards, here are some useful links to get started for free:
-
- Twinkl: register a free account and there are some printables: Click Here to Visit Site
- “My PECs” have lots of free primtable cards. I have not linked to the site as it is not a secure website so please keep this in mind when using it!
- Teachers Pay Teachers: Click Here to Visit Site.
I hope you’ve found this blog helpful and informative. Remember, using PECs can be a valuable tool for unlocking communication and helping your child express themselves more effectively. If you need further support or advice regarding SEND, please contanct me, Louise Knight at Education Support Consultant. I work with you to help provide tailored support and guidance to help your child thrive. Please note I am not a Speech and Language therapist, I am just sharing hints and tips 🙂
To contact me, please visit https://sendlou.co.uk/ or email me directly at info@educationsupportconsultant.co.uk.