Navsanjivani Development Center

The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a step-by-step way to teach children (especially those with autism or limited speech) how to communicate using pictures.

Here’s a parent-friendly guide to the different levels

Level 1: How to Ask (Basic Requesting)

“I want that!”

● The child learns to pick up a picture (e.g., cookie) and give it to you
● You immediately give the item

Example:
Child hands you a picture of juice → you say “Juice!” and give juice

Goal: Teach that communication = getting needs met

Level 2: Distance & Persistence

“I can ask anywhere, anytime”

● Child learns to:
○ Go to the picture
○ Go to the parent/teacher
○ Keep trying even if it’s not easy

Example:
Picture is across the room → child walks, gets it, and gives it to you

Goal: Build independence and persistence

Level 3: Picture Discrimination

“I choose what I want”

● Child chooses between 2 or more pictures
● Learns to pick the correct item

Example:
Cookie vs. apple → child picks cookie if they want cookie

This is where mistakes happen—child might grab randomly at first

Goal: Teach meaningful choices

Level 4: Sentence Building

“I can make a simple sentence”

● Child uses a sentence strip:
○ “I want” + item picture

Example:
“I want + ball”

Goal: Build early language structure

Level 5: Answering Questions

“What do you want?”

● Child responds when asked
● Still uses sentence strip

Example:
You ask: “What do you want?”
Child builds: “I want + chips”

Goal: Move from initiating → responding

Level 6: Commenting & Expanding Language

“I can talk about things”

● Child learns to comment, not just request:
○ “I see”
○ “I hear”
○ “I feel”

Example:
“I see + dog”
“I hear + airplane”

Goal: Expand beyond needs into sharing experiences

Simple Way to Remember

PECS goes from: Asking → Choosing → Sentences → Answering → Commenting

Important Parent Reminders

● PECS is not just giving pictures—it’s a structured teaching system

● Always honor the request immediately (especially early levels)

● Don’t force speech—communication comes first
Work with a trained therapist if possible

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