Finding meaningful ways for children with autism to communicate is a priority for families. Every parent wants to understand their child’s needs, choices, and thoughts. One tool that has opened the door for many nonverbal or minimally verbal children is the Picture Exchange Communication System, or PECS. In this article, we’ll teach you what you need to know about Picture Exchange Communication Systems and how they can help children express themselves with confidence.

PECS gives children a practical, visual way to start conversations, even if they don't use words yet. It’s not about complicated language; it’s about images that represent real choices. With each exchanged picture, children can express preferences, make requests, and interact with the world. This approach does more than help children communicate; it reduces frustration and can set the stage for further language growth.

What Is the Picture Exchange Communication System?

PECS is a type of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Kids use individual pictures to interact with others. The heart of PECS is simple—the child hands a picture to someone to get something they want. This physical exchange makes the act of communicating clear and rewarding.

Unlike just pointing to a picture, PECS teaches children to start communication independently. Getting someone’s attention and handing over a picture helps kids practice initiating interactions, making PECS such a unique and effective way for many children to connect.

Who Can Benefit From PECS?

PECS began as a resource for young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but its reach has grown. Now, people of all ages who have communication difficulties, whether from developmental delays, cognitive challenges, or speech issues, find benefits in using this system.

Children who haven’t developed spoken language can use PECS as their voice. It gives them a way to share needs and wants, which often leads to fewer behavioral struggles. Most importantly, it builds confidence and begins a strong sense of communication intent, providing a starting point for self-expression.

How Does PECS Work?

PECS unfolds in six structured phases. Each step builds on the last, helping a child move from exchanging single pictures to creating meaningful sentences. During the early stages, a therapist or caregiver provides guidance, while another person acts as a communication partner.

With each new phase, children build up their skills and start using PECS on their own. This steady, well-supported growth helps children feel successful at each step, which keeps motivation high.

What Are the Six PECS Phases?

PECS follows a clear path, so children understand each part of communication.

Phase I: The Physical Exchange

The journey starts with exchanging one picture for a favorite item. The focus here is on the simple act of giving a picture to get something. An adult may give a gentle physical prompt to help the child pick up the picture and hand it over.

Phase II: Building Independence

Next, children learn to find their communication book, choose the correct picture, and give it to their partner. Physical prompts fade here, so kids start to communicate independently in different places and with a variety of people.

Phase III: Picture Discrimination

At this point, children make choices from several options. They pick the image that matches what they want from a group of pictures in their book. This skill helps kids learn that each picture stands for something specific.

Phase IV: Sentence Structure

This stage introduces a sentence strip. Kids put the picture of the item they want next to an “I want” icon and give the strip to their partner. The partner reads the sentence out loud and gives the item.

Phase V: Answering Questions

Children now respond when asked, “What do you want?” They make the same sentence strip, learning how to answer questions, not just make requests. This adds variety and flexibility to their skills.

Phase VI: Commenting

The final phase turns toward social interaction. Kids learn to answer, “What do you see?” or “What do you hear?” and use sentence starters like “I see” or “I hear.” This step helps them go beyond requesting and take part in conversations about their environment.

How Can You Begin With PECS?

Starting with PECS means finding what your child loves most. Take note of their favorite foods, toys, activities, or anything that excites them. These motivating items form the basis of the first exchanges and keep the process engaging.

Create simple, easy-to-recognize pictures using photos, drawings, or printed symbols that match your child’s favorite things. Place these images in a small binder or folder, often called a communication book, lined with Velcro strips to help organize the pictures.

Where Do Kids Learn PECS?

Teachers, speech-language pathologists, and board-certified behavior analysts can teach PECS to children. Therapy happens in schools, clinics, and at home. What matters most is that everyone involved—educators, caregivers, and therapists—remains consistent in using PECS.

Many applied behavior analysis clinics include PECS as part of their broader programs. By weaving PECS into daily routines and other learning activities, therapists give children frequent chances to practice in real situations. ABA teams watch progress closely and adjust techniques as children grow, creating a seamless and supportive environment for communication to flourish.

Will Using PECS Hold Back Speech Development?

Many parents wonder if PECS will stop children from speaking, but evidence says otherwise. In reality, PECS often encourages children to try spoken words.

The process focuses on rewarding communication. Children see that reaching out, whether with a picture or, later, with words, leads to good things. Many children begin saying words on their own while still using their picture book, which helps them bridge the gap to using verbal speech when they’re ready.

What Are the Key Benefits of PECS?

PECS delivers more than a way to ask for things. It builds important lifelong communication skills.

• Reduces Frustration: Children learn an effective outlet for their needs, often lowering challenging behaviors.
• Promotes Initiation: Kids learn how to start conversations, not just respond.
• Encourages Social Skills: Practicing with a partner builds social engagement and attention.
• Boosts Independence: Children eventually express needs and ideas on their own.

How Can You Build a Supportive Environment?

Children do their best with PECS when everyone works together. Make sure the communication book is always nearby so your child can use it at any time. Train teachers, family, and therapists to respond the same way whenever your child uses PECS.

Communication doesn’t happen only in structured settings. When PECS becomes part of home and community activities, your child learns to use their voice everywhere they go.

What Should You Know Before Starting?

Learning to communicate is a deeply personal journey. Becoming familiar with what you need to know about Picture Exchange Communication Systems helps families make confident, informed decisions for their children.

PECS offers a clear, proven way for many children to make themselves heard. It builds bridges between parents and children. With patience, encouragement, and guidance from skilled professionals, your child can discover just how much they have to say—one picture at a time.