The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a form of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) used primarily by individuals with communication challenges, such as those on the autism spectrum or with speech and language disorders. It was developed by Lori Frost and Andy Bondy in 1985 to enable these individuals to communicate by exchanging pictures or symbols representing what they want, need, or are trying to express.

Picture Exchange Communication System

Phase 1: Learning to Exchange Pictures – The user learns to pick up a picture of something they want and hand it to a communication partner in exchange for the desired object or activity (like a snack or toy).

Phase 2: Expanding Use – The user is encouraged to be more persistent in initiating communication by moving towards their communication partner and expanding the range of items they request.

Phase 3: Discrimination Between Pictures—The user learns to select from a variety of pictures to request different things (e.g., choosing between an apple and a ball).

Phase 4: Sentence Structure – The user forms simple sentence structures using a sentence strip that holds multiple pictures. For example, they might place the “I want” picture next to a picture of the desired item.

Phase 5: Answering Questions—The user learns to respond to questions like “What do you want?” by selecting and providing the appropriate picture.

Phase 6: Commenting—The user progresses to commenting and describing their experiences or environment using pictures such as “I see,” “I hear,” and “I feel.”

PECS is a widely used tool for helping individuals with nonverbal or limited verbal abilities develop functional communication. It’s especially effective because it starts with concrete visual representations and gradually builds towards more abstract language. It has been widely used in various settings, including schools and therapy, to help nonverbal children and adults communicate effectively and enhance their social and language development.