Who is PECS for? If a child cannot communicate effectively, either because he has no words or words are difficult for him, using a picture communication system is beneficial.

This program breaks down the beginning phases of PECS:

1. How to communicate (pick up and release)
2. Distance and persistence (travels to communication partner and to book up to 10 ft)
3. Simple discrimination (between preferred and non-preferred)

PECS remains to be the most evidence-based AAC (Augmentative Communication). This program description is not meant to replace a complete PECS protocol but to break it down in order to get some momentum with students learning to exchange pictures. Also, PECS is meant to be run with 2 staff – a communication partner and back prompter (not always possible : )) For a more detailed PECS training and information, check out www.pecs.com.

Note: If the child has not learned non-identical matching or can’t yet read pictures, use real-life picture of the preferred item. (See “3-D PECS” program attached)

If you are teaching a student to scroll through multiple pages in either a PECS binder or on an AAC device, use the Match to Sample program.