Understanding the Difference Between the PECS System and Picture Cards

When addressing the communication needs of children, particularly those with autism, both picture cards and the PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) are valuable tools. However, these two methods serve different purposes and have distinct approaches to fostering communication skills. Understanding the differences is crucial for selecting the right tool for a child's specific needs.

What Are Picture Cards?

Picture cards consist of images representing various items, actions, and concepts. These cards can be particularly useful for children who struggle with verbal communication. They provide a visual representation that helps children recognize and identify objects or actions, fostering a basic understanding of communication. Picture cards are often used in early stages of communication development, making them accessible for a wide range of abilities.

What is the PECS System?

PECS, or the Picture Exchange Communication System, is a more structured and advanced approach to teaching communication skills. It focuses on helping children progress from recognizing pictures to using them to form full sentences. The PECS system includes several steps and stages that guide children through the process of communication.

The Steps and Stages of the PECS System

Establish a Motivator: The first step in the PECS system involves identifying a motivating object or activity that the child desires. Common motivators include candy (like MMs) and small snacks. Show the Connection: Next, the child is shown how to exchange a picture card for a motivator. This is often done with hand-over-hand guidance to ensure the child understands that exchanging the card results in receiving the reward. Select One Picture: Once the exchange is understood, the child is introduced to selecting one picture card at a time. This step eventually leads to selecting multiple picture cards to form sentences. Use of Picture Books: Children are taught to use a PECS book, which is a small binder with picture cards attached with Velcro. These books allow children to form sentences independently, moving away from the prompt of an adult. Form Sentences Independently: The ultimate goal of the PECS system is to teach children how to form complete sentences independently. This includes using picture cards to convey thoughts, feelings, and opinions.

Key Differences Between Picture Cards and PECS

Scope and Complexity: While picture cards are often used as a starting point for basic communication, the PECS system is designed to take a child through a comprehensive process of learning communication. Picture cards are generally more basic and are used primarily for recognition and identification. In contrast, the PECS system is structured to help children progress from basic recognition to forming complete sentences.

Guidance and Support: Picture cards rely on the child's ability to recognize and identify objects, with minimal adult guidance beyond initial demonstrations. The PECS system requires active involvement from adults, with initial steps involving hand-over-hand assistance. As children progress, they are encouraged to perform actions independently.

Independent Communication: The ultimate goal of the PECS system is for children to use picture cards independently to express thoughts, feelings, and opinions. Picture cards alone do not necessarily provide this level of support for independent communication.

Benefits of the PECS System for Autism Communication

Autism often presents significant challenges in communication, particularly in the motor planning process for speech. The PECS system addresses these challenges by explicitly teaching communication skills. Many children who engage in the PECS system eventually transition to verbal communication, although some children start using spoken language simultaneously.

The structured approach of the PECS system makes it a valuable tool for therapists, educators, and parents working with children with autism. It provides a clear roadmap for fostering independent communication skills, which can be life-changing for both children and their families.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between picture cards and the PECS system is essential for effective communication support. While picture cards are a fundamental tool for early communication development, the PECS system offers a more comprehensive, structured approach that can lead to significant improvements in a child's ability to communicate effectively. Whether a child needs the basics provided by picture cards or the advanced support of the PECS system, both tools can play crucial roles in supporting communication growth.