PECS - Picture Exchange Communication System

 

PECS is an abbreviation for the Picture Exchange Communication System which is used extensively with students on the autism spectrum. It was developed over 20 years ago in the United States and is used worldwide as a way to support those with ASD and other communication disorders. It starts with a simple image, eg encouraging a student to hand a picture of a drink to a teacher who then provides that drink. Verbal prompts are not used. The system goes on to teach various symbols and how to construct simple "sentences” and eventually enable the asking and answering of questions. Students of all ages have been known to develop speech when using PECS.