Pecs books

PECS Books – Use in Autism

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) Books are communication tools used to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) express their needs, feelings, and choices using pictures instead of words.

Uses of PECS Books in Autism

  1. Enhances Communication
    Helps non-verbal or minimally verbal children communicate effectively.

  2. Teaches Requesting Skills
    Children learn to hand over picture cards to request items or activities.

  3. Builds Sentence Formation
    Supports forming simple sentences like “I want + picture.”

  4. Reduces Frustration and Tantrums
    Improves expression of needs, reducing behavior problems.

  5. Improves Social Interaction
    Encourages interaction with parents, teachers, and peers.

Common Features of PECS Books

  • Velcro-based picture cards

  • Picture symbols of food, objects, actions, and emotions

  • Sentence strips

  • Portable communication folders

Benefits

  • Improves functional communication

  • Supports independence

  • Encourages language development

  • Builds confidence in social situations

Overview

PECS Books (Picture Exchange Communication System Books) are specialized communication tools designed to help non-verbal or minimally verbal individuals express their needs, thoughts, and feelings using pictures instead of words.

These books are widely used in speech therapy, special education, and autism intervention programs to develop functional communication skills and encourage social interaction.

Purpose

  • To promote independent communication for individuals with speech or language challenges

  • To teach symbol recognition and picture-based communication

  • To encourage social interaction and expression

  • To support speech and language development in structured settings

Key Features

  • Portable Communication Binder – Easy to carry, durable, and child-friendly.

  • Velcro-Based System – Pictures can be attached, removed, and rearranged easily.

  • Customizable Pages – Allows therapists or parents to add vocabulary based on daily needs.

  • Visual Learning Approach – Supports children who learn better through pictures.

  • Durable Materials – Made with laminated pages for long-term use and hygiene.

  • Benefits

    • Encourages functional, meaningful communication

    • Builds confidence and independence in expressing wants and needs

    • Enhances language comprehension and social interaction

    • Reduces frustration and behavioral issues due to communication barriers

    • Supports transition to verbal speech when possible

    Usage

    1. Introduce the PECS book by teaching picture exchange (requesting preferred items).

    2. Expand to multiple pictures to form short picture sentences.

    3. Encourage consistent use at home, school, or therapy centers.

    4. Update cards regularly to match the user’s growing vocabulary and interests.

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