Understanding The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

What is Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)?

The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a popular communication method used to help people, especially those with autism, communicate using pictures. It helps individuals express their needs, wants, and desires, as well as initiate social interactions.

How PECS Works?

PECS is a six-phase program that focuses on the development of functional communication skills. The program begins with teaching individuals to exchange a single picture for a desired item or action.

For example, if an individual wants a cookie, they would exchange a picture of a cookie for the actual cookie. As the individual progresses through the phases, they learn to combine pictures to form sentences and to initiate social interactions.

The Six Phases of PECS

Phase 1: How to Communicate

In the first phase of PECS, the individual learns how to communicate using pictures. The individual is taught to exchange a picture of a desired item or action for the actual item or action. The focus of this phase is on providing a means of communication, even if it is just a single picture.

Phase 2: Distance and Persistence

In the second phase, the individual learns to use pictures to request items that are not in their immediate environment. For example, they may use a picture of a toy to request that their parent bring them the toy from another room. This phase also focuses on teaching the individual to be persistent in their communication attempts.

Phase 3: Picture Discrimination

In the third phase, the individual learns to distinguish between different pictures. They learn to select the correct picture when presented with a choice of pictures. This phase is important for teaching the individual to communicate their specific wants and needs.

Phase 4: Sentence Structure

In the fourth phase, the individual learns to combine pictures to form sentences. For example, they may combine a picture of a cookie with a picture of the word "want" to form the sentence "I want a cookie." This phase is crucial for developing more complex communication skills.

Phase 5: Answering Questions

In the fifth phase, the individual learns to answer simple questions using pictures. For example, they may answer the question "What do you want?" by selecting a picture of a cookie. This phase helps the individual to become more engaged in social interactions.

Phase 6: Commenting

In the final phase, the individual learns to make comments using pictures. For example, they may use a picture of the sun to comment on the weather. This phase is important for developing more advanced social skills.

Benefits of PECS

PECS has many benefits, including:

• Providing a means of communication for individuals who may not have been able to communicate otherwise
• Reducing frustration and challenging behaviors by enabling individuals to express their needs and wants
• Improving social skills by facilitating communication and interactions with others
• Encouraging language development by teaching individuals to use pictures to form sentences
• Being adaptable to a wide range of ages and abilities

Individualizing PECS

While PECS can be an effective communication method, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each individual has unique needs and abilities, and therefore the use of PECS should be individualized to suit their specific needs.

This means that the program may need to be modified or adapted depending on the individual's cognitive level, language abilities, and motor skills.

For example, some individuals may require additional support in order to learn how to use PECS effectively. This could include using more concrete images or providing physical assistance with manipulating the pictures.

Additionally, some individuals may benefit from using a combination of PECS and other communication methods, such as sign language or verbal language.

By individualizing the use of PECS, we can ensure that each person is given the best opportunity to communicate effectively and efficiently. This approach also recognizes that communication is a complex process that requires ongoing assessment and adjustment in order to meet the changing needs of each individual.

Common Challenges During PECS Implementation

While PECS can be a highly effective communication method, it is not without its challenges. Here are some common issues that may arise during the implementation of PECS and strategies for addressing them:

Resistance to Using Pictures

Some individuals may initially resist using pictures as a means of communication. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including a lack of understanding about how the system works or a preference for other communication methods.

In these cases, it is important to introduce PECS gradually and provide plenty of positive reinforcement for successful communication attempts.

Difficulty Discriminating Between Pictures

For some individuals, discriminating between different pictures may be challenging. This could be due to visual processing difficulties or cognitive delays. To address this issue, it may be helpful to use high-contrast images or simplify the pictures used in the system.

Limited Motor Skills

Individuals with limited motor skills may have difficulty manipulating the pictures used in PECS. In these cases, it may be helpful to use larger or more durable pictures that are easier to grasp and manipulate. Additionally, physical prompts or hand-over-hand assistance can be used to help individuals place the pictures in the correct location.

Language Barriers

PECS relies heavily on visual cues and therefore may not be suitable for individuals who have difficulty processing visual information. In these cases, it may be necessary to supplement PECS with other communication methods such as sign language or verbal language.

By recognizing and addressing these common challenges, we can ensure that each individual has the best opportunity to succeed with PECS. It is important to remember that each person's needs are unique and ongoing assessment and adjustment will likely be necessary throughout the implementation process.

Transitioning from PECS to Other Communication Methods

While PECS can be a highly effective communication method, it is important to remember that it is just one tool in a larger toolbox of communication methods.

As individuals progress through the six phases of PECS, they may begin to show an interest in other forms of communication, such as speech or sign language. Here are some strategies for transitioning from PECS to other forms of communication:

1. Encourage Verbal Communication

As individuals progress through the phases of PECS, they may begin to develop verbal language skills. It is important to encourage and reinforce any attempts at verbal communication, even if the words are not yet clear or accurate.

2. Introduce Sign Language

For individuals who have difficulty with verbal language, sign language can be an effective alternative. ASL (American Sign Language) or other forms of sign language can be introduced gradually alongside PECS.

3. Use Visual Supports

Visual supports can be used to supplement verbal or sign language communication methods. These may include picture schedules, social stories, or visual aids that help individuals understand and navigate their environment.

4. Gradually Fade Out PECS

As individuals become more proficient in their use of other communication methods, it may be appropriate to gradually fade out the use of PECS. This should be done gradually and with plenty of positive reinforcement for successful attempts at using other forms of communication.

By using these strategies and individualizing the transition process based on each person's unique needs and abilities, we can ensure that each individual has the best opportunity to communicate effectively and efficiently using a variety of methods.

Tracking Progress and Evaluating Success with PECS

Tracking progress and evaluating success is an essential part of using the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). It allows caregivers, educators, and therapists to monitor the individual's communication skills development over time. Here are some methods for tracking progress and evaluating success when using PECS:

Data Collection

One of the most effective ways to track progress with PECS is through data collection. This involves recording each instance in which the individual uses PECS to communicate their needs or wants.

By tracking this information, caregivers can determine how often the individual is using PECS, which pictures they are selecting most frequently, and whether there are any patterns or trends in their communication behavior.

Reinforcement Systems

Another way to evaluate success with PECS is through reinforcement systems. These systems provide positive feedback for successful communication attempts, which can encourage individuals to continue using PECS.

For example, a token economy system could be implemented where individuals earn tokens or stickers for successfully communicating their needs or wants using PECS.

Formal Assessments

Formal assessments can also be used to evaluate success with PECS. These assessments may include standardized tests that measure language development or social skills. They can provide valuable information about the individual's overall progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.

Ongoing Observation

Finally, ongoing observation is an important method for tracking progress with PECS. Caregivers should take note of any changes in the individual's communication behavior over time and make adjustments as necessary.

For example, if an individual appears to be struggling with a particular phase of PECS, additional support or modifications may be needed.

By utilizing these methods for tracking progress and evaluating success, caregivers can ensure that each individual is making meaningful gains in their communication skills development with the use of PECS.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers in Supporting the Use of PECS

Parents and caregivers play a critical role in supporting the use of PECS for individuals with communication difficulties. Here are some ways that parents and caregivers can support the use of PECS:

1. Consistency is Key

Consistency is essential when using PECS to teach communication skills. Parents and caregivers should ensure that they are using the same pictures, phrases, and routines across all environments where the individual will be using PECS. This consistency helps to reinforce learning and makes it easier for individuals to understand how to use PECS effectively.

2. Reinforcement and Praise

Positive reinforcement is an effective way to encourage individuals to use PECS consistently. Parents and caregivers should provide praise and positive feedback when an individual successfully uses PECS to communicate their needs or wants. This encouragement helps to build confidence and reinforces the importance of using PECS.

3. Modeling Behavior

Modeling behavior is another important way that parents and caregivers can support the use of PECS. By modeling how to use pictures effectively, parents and caregivers can help individuals learn how to communicate their needs or wants more efficiently.

4. Individualizing Supports

Each individual has unique needs, abilities, and preferences when it comes to communication. Parents and caregivers should work closely with educators, therapists, and other professionals involved in the individual's care to develop an individualized plan for using PECS effectively.

This may include modifying or adapting the program based on the individual's cognitive level, language abilities, motor skills, or interests.

5. Incorporating into Daily Routines

Incorporating the use of PECS into daily routines is an effective way to reinforce learning and make communication more functional for individuals with communication difficulties. For example, parents may create a picture schedule for daily activities such as getting dressed or eating meals.

By following these strategies and working closely with professionals involved in the individual's care, parents and caregivers can help to support the use of PECS effectively and efficiently.

This approach recognizes that communication is a complex process that requires ongoing support and reinforcement from all members of an individual's support network.

Practical Tips for Implementing PECS in Daily Life

Implementing the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) in daily life can be a highly effective way to improve communication skills for individuals with communication difficulties. Here are some practical tips for implementing PECS in daily life:

1. Create a PECS Binder or Folder

Creating a binder or folder that contains all of the necessary materials for using PECS can be helpful for ensuring that the system is readily available and easily accessible. This may include picture cards, sentence strips, and any other materials needed to support communication.

2. Establish a Routine

Establishing a routine for using PECS can help individuals become more familiar with the system and make it easier to incorporate into daily life. For example, parents may establish a routine where they use PECS during mealtime or bedtime routines.

3. Use Visual Cues

Visual cues can be used to help individuals understand when it is time to use PECS. For example, parents may use a visual timer or clock to indicate when it is time to use PECS during routines.

4. Provide Positive Reinforcement

Providing positive reinforcement for successful communication attempts using PECS can help to encourage continued use of the system. This may include verbal praise, stickers, or other forms of positive feedback.

5. Be Patient and Persistent

Learning how to effectively use PECS takes time and patience. It is important to remain persistent and consistent in using the system even if progress seems slow at first.

By following these practical tips, caregivers can help individuals with communication difficulties successfully implement the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) into their daily lives.

FAQs

Is PECS only for individuals with autism?

No, while PECS was originally developed for individuals with autism, it can be used for any individual who has difficulty communicating using verbal language.

How long does it take to see progress with PECS?

The amount of time it takes to see progress with PECS varies depending on each individual's unique needs and abilities. Some individuals may show progress within a few weeks, while others may take several months or longer.

Can PECS be used in combination with other communication methods?

Yes, PECS can be used in combination with other communication methods such as sign language or verbal language. It is important to individualize the approach based on each person's unique needs and abilities.

What happens if an individual loses interest in using PECS?

If an individual loses interest in using PECS, it may be necessary to reevaluate the system and make modifications or adjustments as necessary. This could include simplifying the pictures used or introducing new reinforcers to encourage continued use of the system.

Is there a specific age range for using PECS?

No, there is no specific age range for using PECS. The system can be adapted and modified based on each person's unique needs and abilities at any age.

Conclusion

PECS is a highly effective communication method that has helped many individuals with autism and other communication difficulties to communicate their wants and needs.

By providing a means of communication, PECS can increase an individual's quality of life and improve their social skills. With its six-phase program, PECS offers a comprehensive approach to developing functional communication skills.

Sources

• https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/therapies-guide/pecs
• https://www.integratedtreatmentservices.co.uk/our-approaches/
• https://childdevelopment.com.au/areas-of-concern/using-speech/
• https://pecsusa.com/pecs/