Beyond Words: How PECS Helps Autistic Children Communicate
The Picture Exchange Communication System, or PECS, is a type of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) designed for individuals who have difficulty using speech.
Rather than asking a child to say a word before they’re ready, PECS starts where the child already is. It teaches them that communication works—even without speech.
At its core, PECS is about initiation. The child learns to approach another person and hand them a picture to request something they want. That action alone is huge. It means communication is no longer passive or prompted—it’s intentional.
Over years of clinical practice, PECS has proven effective because it connects communication to real motivation. The child isn’t practicing words in isolation. They’re asking for something that matters to them in that moment.
Why PECS Is Often Recommended for Autism
Autism can make expressive language especially challenging. Some children understand language but can’t produce speech easily. Others struggle with both understanding and expression. PECS meets both groups where they are.
PECS is often recommended because it:
- Removes the pressure to speak
- Reduces frustration and emotional overwhelm
- Creates clear, predictable communication
- Builds independence from the start
What I’ve seen again and again is that once communication becomes easier, behavior often improves too. Many behaviors are not “behavior problems” at all—they’re communication problems.
How PECS Actually Works
PECS isn’t a single tool. It’s a system, taught in carefully designed steps that build on each other.
Early PECS phases
In the beginning, the focus is simple and powerful.
- The child learns to exchange a picture for a desired item
- No verbal response is required
- The reward is immediate and meaningful
This stage teaches cause and effect. “When I give this picture, I get what I want.”
Later PECS phases
As skills grow, PECS expands beyond basic requests.
- The child learns to choose between pictures
- Sentence strips are introduced (“I want ___”)
- Questions like “What do you want?” are answered
- Commenting and describing are added
Each phase is introduced only when the child is ready. There’s no rushing, and no skipping steps.
Does PECS Stop a Child From Talking?
This is one of the most common fears I hear from parents. And it’s completely understandable.
The answer is no.
Research and real-world experience consistently show that PECS does not prevent speech. For some children, speech increases once communication becomes less stressful. For others, speech may not develop—but communication still flourishes.
What PECS does is remove the pressure and frustration that often block progress.
When a child feels understood, they’re more willing to engage. And engagement is where learning happens.
PECS Compared to Other AAC Options
PECS is one of many AAC approaches, and it’s often a starting point rather than an endpoint.
When PECS is especially helpful
PECS tends to work well for individuals who:
- Are non-verbal or minimally verbal
- Have difficulty initiating communication
- Respond well to visual information
- Are early in their communication development
When a transition may happen
As communication skills grow, some individuals move to:
- Speech-generating devices
- AAC apps on tablets
- Typing or written communication
PECS doesn’t limit future options. It often opens the door to them.
PECS and ABA Therapy: How They Work Together
PECS is frequently used within ABA therapy because both focus on functional, real-life skills.
In ABA programs, PECS may be used to:
- Teach requesting, rejecting, and choosing
- Reduce challenging behaviors linked to communication
- Support transitions and daily routines
- Generalize communication across people and settings
High-quality ABA therapy also involves coaching caregivers. That way, communication doesn’t stop when therapy ends for the day.
Using PECS in Daily Life
PECS works best when it’s part of everyday routines—not just a therapy session.
Here’s how it often shows up in real life:
- Asking for snacks or drinks
- Requesting favorite toys or activities
- Communicating “help,” “break,” or “all done”
- Making choices at school or home
- Participating in play and routines
When PECS is used consistently, children learn that communication works everywhere—not just with therapists.
Common Myths About PECS
There are still many misunderstandings around PECS.
- “PECS is only for young kids.”
Not true. PECS can be effective for older children, teens, and even adults. - “PECS is only for
severe autism.”
Communication needs exist across the spectrum. - “Once you start PECS, you can’t move on.”
PECS can be adapted or replaced as communication skills grow.
Supporting Families Through the PECS Journey
Starting PECS can feel overwhelming. Parents worry about doing it correctly or making mistakes.
Here’s the truth: consistency matters more than perfection.
With the right guidance, PECS becomes a natural part of daily life. Families gain confidence. Children gain a voice. And the home environment often becomes calmer and more connected.
How Inclusive ABA Can Support PECS and Communication
If your child struggles to communicate, Inclusive ABA offers individualized, compassionate ABA services that often incorporate PECS and other AAC strategies.
Our services include:
- Home-based ABA therapy to support communication within daily routines
- School-based ABA therapy to help children communicate in classroom settings
- ABA parent training so families feel confident using PECS at home
Inclusive ABA serves families in:
Reach out to Inclusive ABA today to learn how PECS and ABA therapy can help your child communicate, connect, and thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PECS only for non-verbal autism?
No. PECS is also helpful for minimally verbal individuals or those who struggle to initiate speech consistently.
How long does it take to see progress with PECS?
Some children begin using PECS within weeks. Others progress more slowly. Consistency and motivation play a big role.
Can PECS be used with speech therapy?
Yes. PECS often works best when used alongside speech therapy and ABA services.
Sources:
- https://pecsusa.com/pecs-facts/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1284381/
- https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/ebp-module/picture-exchange-communication-system-pecs/
- https://iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/what-is-the-picture-exchange-communication-system-or-pecs.html
- https://asatonline.org/for-parents/learn-more-about-specific-treatments/picture-exchange-communication-system-pecs/
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