Learning about PECS and How it Helps with Communication

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) is a simple, step-by-step way to teach someone to communicate using pictures, photos, or symbols. It’s made for people who have little or no speech, and it starts with a really basic idea: if you want something, hand someone a picture of it, and then they will give it to you. That small exchange shows the person that communication actually works.

How PECS grows communication

PECS breaks learning into clear, practical steps. People start by handing a picture to get a desired item. Then they learn to give pictures across distances and to different people, pick the right picture from several, put pictures together into short phrases like “I want juice,” answer simple questions, and eventually use pictures to comment, not just request. Each step is hands-on and tied to real results. Speech therapists typically use PECS as an augementive communication tool for children or adults with communication challenges.

Why it often helps

PECS is fairly strightforward. The learner does one deliberate thing, gets what they asked for right away, and learns that talking (with a picture) leads to results. That gives motivation and confidence to try communicating more.

What the research and professionals say

Studies and lots of clinical experience show PECS can increase requesting and initiating communication for people with limited speech. It works best when combined with speaking models and other supports, not used all by itself.

How PECS supports real independence

PECS is flexible and uses photos, icons, or digital pictures that fit the person’s age and interests. It’s portable, so families can use it at home, school, and out in the community, which helps the skill adapt to everyday life. Autism speech therapy benefits from using PECS because it can be a quick tool to learn.

Will PECS stop someone from speaking?

Most evidence and real-world experience say no. Often, learners try more vocalizations once they see communication gets results. It’s best to model words consistently so pictures support, rather than replace, speech.

Keeping it respectful

If PECS feels rote or infantilizing, that’s usually because it was set up poorly. Use age-appropriate images, respect the person’s preferences, and keep moving goals toward sentence building and natural conversations. Used this way, it is a respectful tool that opens choices and connections.

When PECS might not be the right fit

It’s not one-size-fits-all. If someone already speaks well or prefers sign language or tech-based augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), those might be better. Also, inconsistent use or lack of training makes it ineffective. Check goals regularly and be ready to combine approaches.

Quick tips for success

• Use motivating, personalized vocabulary and age-appropriate images.
• Say the words aloud while using the pictures.
• Train everyone who interacts with the person for consistent use.
• Increase goals slowly. Work on requesting, discrimination, short sentences, commenting, and answering.
• Respect the person’s choices; mix methods if needed (PECS + speech or PECS + tech).

Bottom line PECS has helped a lot of people reduce frustration and communicate more independently. When taught thoughtfully and respectfully, it’s a practical, considerate way to open up real conversations.

Print out your own PECS printable visuals from our website. There are even spaces to design your own imagery and icons.