Autism Pecs Speech

Autism Pecs Speech

Would the Picture Exchange Communication (PECS) system be beneficial for a child with a speech delay?

I have only found information on this being used with Austism, but we were told my son does not have signs of autism - he just turned 2 and is only starting to talk. We did have an evalution and the PECs system was suggested as a good way to encourage communication. He currently is a dragger and pointer. Anyone have any experience with this system? We will be starting speech therapy soon, but I am anxious to get started. Thanks so much!!

Certainly. However, keep in mind the need to point and utter (speak) at the same time. Make sure that you prompt the child with each picture to speak.

For example, ask a question, such as "What do you want to eat?" Present two pictures, a burrito and a sandwich. Allow a few seconds for a response. Point to each picture and repeat "burrito or sandwich." Again allow a few seconds for a response. If the student points to what he/she wants, but does not speak, say "good choice. You want a burrito. Say, 'burrito.'" pause again for a response. When the student points and speaks at the same time, present the burrito.

Language is functional. That is to say that we use language for a reason, to get what we want. If we can use photo language or sign language alone to get get what we want, then there is no need to ever speak. However, if we use a combination of these things to get what we want there is functional and neurological reinforcement. This can be very powerful for all students, with or without a particular disability, when done properly.

By the way, PECS is a great system and has good pictures. Any simple and realistic pictures will do.

Visual Tool that Helped our Child with Autism Learn to Speak: PECS

Autism Pecs Speech

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