The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS®) is an evidence-based approach designed to develop functional communication skills for individuals who experience challenges with verbal communication.
PECS focuses on teaching individuals to initiate communication independently, using pictures or symbols to express needs, choices, and thoughts in a clear and meaningful way.
IntegraSense provides specialist PECS support, delivered by a certified PECS Implementor (Level 2) with over 10 years’ experience working with both children and adults with neurodivergent conditions.
How PECS Works
PECS is a structured, phased approach to communication development. It begins by teaching the individual how to communicate a simple request and progresses toward more complex communication, including sentence building and commenting.
The system is designed to be practical and adaptable, supporting communication across different environments such as home, education, and community settings.
A key focus of PECS is independence – supporting individuals to initiate communication themselves, rather than relying on prompts or interpretation from others.
Key Principles of PECS
PECS is delivered in line with established principles that ensure communication is meaningful, effective, and sustainable:
- Individual suitability
Each individual is assessed to determine whether PECS is appropriate for their communication needs and context. - Motivation through reinforcement
Strong, meaningful reinforcers are identified to motivate communication and support engagement. - Building foundations first
Foundational communication skills are developed before introducing more complex concepts such as choice and discrimination. - Supporting speech development
PECS does not inhibit speech. Research shows that it can support and, in some cases, enhance speech development alongside communication skills. - Ownership of communication
Each individual has their own communication book, which is treated as their voice. They are supported to use and carry this consistently across environments to promote independence and continuity.
Approach and Delivery
PECS support is tailored to the individual and delivered in a structured, consistent way. This may involve working directly with the individual, as well as supporting families, carers, and professionals to implement PECS effectively across different settings.
The focus is on ensuring that communication is functional, meaningful, and embedded into everyday life – not limited to structured sessions.
Who This is For
PECS support is suitable for children and adults who experience communication difficulties, including those with autism, learning disabilities, or other neurodivergent conditions.
It is particularly valuable where individuals:
- Have limited or no functional speech
- Experience difficulty initiating communication
- Require structured support to develop communication skills
Why This Matters
Effective communication is essential for independence, participation, and quality of life. PECS provides individuals with a reliable and accessible way to express themselves, reducing frustration and supporting meaningful interaction.
