What Are PECS? (And No, Not the Boob Kind)

 What Are PECS? (And No, Not the Boob Kind)

The Ultimate Parent-Friendly Guide to Picture Exchange Communication Systems





If you’ve just landed in the world of SEN acronyms, visual timetables, and laminators that never get a day off — welcome.

Let’s break it down properly.

PECS stands for Picture Exchange Communication System.

It’s a structured visual communication system that helps children communicate using pictures instead of spoken words.

PECS is most commonly used with:

  • Autistic children

  • Nonverbal children

  • Children with speech delay

  • Sensory-sensitive children

  • Kids who struggle to express big feelings

In simple terms?

It gives children a way to say:
“I need help.”
“It’s too loud.”
“I’m overwhelmed.”
Without needing to find the words.

And that changes everything.

Who Are PECS For?

PECS cards can support:

💬 Children who are nonverbal
🧠 Children who become overwhelmed and lose access to speech
🗯️ Children who process information visually
👀 Parents, carers, and teachers trying to decode “eh-eh-eh”

PECS are not just for autism.
They support any child who struggles with expressive communication.

How Does PECS Actually Work?

The official Picture Exchange Communication System follows six stages:

  1. A child exchanges a single picture for something they want

  2. The child learns to approach someone to communicate

  3. The child chooses between different pictures

  4. The child builds simple sentence strips

  5. The child answers questions

  6. The child comments spontaneously

You don’t have to follow the full clinical training model to benefit.

Even using a small set of core visual communication cards at home can dramatically reduce frustration.



PECS vs Flashcards – What’s the Difference?

Flashcards = you test your child.

PECS = your child communicates with you.

That’s the magic.

PECS is functional, child-led communication.
It’s not about memorising pictures — it’s about expressing real needs.

Why PECS Cards Actually Work

Visual communication reduces pressure.

When a child is dysregulated, speech is often the first thing to go.

PECS cards help because they:

✅ Reduce meltdowns caused by communication frustration
✅ Support emotional regulation
✅ Increase independence
✅ Work at home and in school
✅ Help build emotional literacy
✅ Support children during transitions and routines

Communication = regulation.

When a child feels heard, behaviour shifts.


Many meltdowns happen because children can’t express overwhelm — something I explore more in my post on 'why some children meltdown over small things'


How to Start Using PECS at Home

If you’re new to PECS, start simple.

• Begin with 3–5 core needs (toilet, drink, help, break)
• Keep cards accessible — not hidden away
• Model using them yourself
• Introduce during calm moments
• Praise communication, not perfection

Consistency matters more than complexity.

PECS can also support tricky routines like toilet refusal or transitions.

Printable vs Physical PECS – Which Should You Choose?

You now have options.

Printable PECS Cards

Best for:
• Parents who want instant access
• Customising and laminating
• Budget-friendly flexibility

📘 Prefer a Ready-Made Physical Version?



If you don’t want to print, laminate, or wrestle with Velcro at 9pm — I’ve created a physical version too.

Talk Cards for Big Feelings (Available on Amazon)

This printed book version is ideal for:

• Classrooms
• SEN settings
• Parents who want grab-and-go support
• Keeping communication tools in one place
• Avoiding the printer drama entirely

It includes core emotional communication cards designed to support:

• “I need help”
• “It’s too loud”
• “I’m scared”
• “I’m overwhelmed”

➡️ Get the physical book on Amazon here

😂 The Chaos Edition (Because Real Life Is Loud)

Sometimes kids need to say:

• “WiFi’s gone. I’m gone.”
• “I licked it so it’s mine.”
• “Too much buffering.”
• “You said five minutes.”

This 8-card funny PECS set supports emotional expression with humour and honesty.

➡️ Get the Chaos Edition Here

Frequently Asked Questions About PECS

Do PECS stop children from talking?

No. Research shows visual communication often supports speech development rather than replacing it.

Are PECS only for autistic children?

No. They support any child with communication difficulties.

What age can you start PECS?

As soon as a child shows difficulty expressing needs — even toddlers can benefit.

Can I use PECS without formal training?

Yes. While structured training exists, many families successfully use visual cards at home without clinical certification.

Final Thoughts From a Sensory Mum

PECS changed our day-to-day life.

It reduced frustration.
It increased independence.
It gave my child a voice when words weren’t available.

And honestly?
It saved my sanity more than once.

If you’re in the thick of communication struggles — I see you.

Visual support isn’t giving up on speech.
It’s building a bridge to it.


More Support for Sensory Parents

• Why Does My Child Meltdown Over Small Things?
• Why Does My Child Hate the Toilet?
• Sensory Breaks Are Not a Reward
• Sensory-Friendly Potty Training Guide
• The Sensory Parent Journal






Comments

Post a Comment