Picture Exchange Communication System
The Picture Exchange Communication System, also known as PECS, is a form of augmentative and alternative communication in which a child is taught to communicate with an adult by giving them a card with a picture on it.
PECS is based on the idea that children who can't talk or write can be taught to communicate using pictures.
The adult begins by teaching the child to exchange a picture of an item he wants. For example, if the child wants a drink, he will give a picture of 'drink' to the adult who will then give him a drink.
The adult will then teach the child progressively more difficult skills, such as using pictures to make whole sentences or to express preferences.
The Picture Exchange Communication System was originally designed to help non-verbal children with autism but it has also been used with adolescents and adults who have a wide range of communicative, cognitive and physical difficulties.
The Picture Exchange Communication System is a key element in many multi-component programmes and approaches (such as the SPELL approach and the TEACCH programme).
Related Glossaries
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- PECS
- Technology-Based Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- Visual Support
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Related Interventions
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