Teaching a Child to Use PECS: Step-by-Step Guidance for Families

Communication is one of the most important skills a child can learn, and for many children with autism or other developmental delays, traditional speech can be challenging. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a structured way to help children learn to communicate their needs and wants using pictures. It not only empowers children to express themselves but also reduces frustration and builds the foundation for language development. At Helping Hands, we use PECS frequently with families, and here are the key steps involved in teaching it.

Step 1: Teaching the Exchange

The first step of PECS is helping the child understand the power of communication. A therapist begins by teaching the child to pick up a picture of a desired item (like a favorite snack) and hand it to an adult in exchange for that item. The goal is not labeling the picture yet, but learning that communication results in getting something meaningful. This step usually requires two adults: one as the “communication partner” and the other as a “prompter” who helps guide the child to success.

Step 2: Expanding Distance and Independence

Once the child consistently hands over the picture, we increase the challenge by creating distance between the child, the picture, and the communication partner. For example, the picture might be on the table and the adult across the room. This helps the child learn to travel, find the picture, and independently deliver it. It ensures communication isn’t just situational but becomes purposeful across different settings.

Step 3: Discrimination Between Pictures

The next step is teaching the child to choose between two or more pictures. For example, if the child wants an apple but is presented with both an apple and a cracker picture, the correct choice results in receiving the apple. This stage helps children understand that pictures represent different items and that they can make specific requests.

Step 4: Building Sentences

In this step, children learn to use a sentence strip with a phrase like “I want” followed by the picture of the desired item. For example, they would place “I want” + “ball” on the strip and hand it to the communication partner. This expands PECS beyond single-word requests and models a sentence structure that supports later language development.

Step 5: Answering Questions

After children are comfortable making requests, we introduce answering questions, typically starting with “What do you want?” The child learns to respond by building their “I want + picture” sentence. This step moves communication toward more interactive exchanges.

Step 6: Commenting and Expanding Language

The final stage involves teaching the child to make comments beyond requests, such as “I see,” “I hear,” or “I feel.” For example, the child might put together “I see” + “dog” when noticing a dog outside. This expands communication to include sharing experiences and connecting socially with others.

Why PECS Works

PECS is powerful because it starts with motivation—children learn that communication helps them access things they care about. Over time, it promotes independence, reduces frustration, and builds a bridge toward spoken language for many learners.

At Helping Hands, we guide families through each step, ensuring PECS is introduced in a way that feels natural, supportive, and tailored to the child’s needs. With consistency and collaboration, PECS can be a life-changing tool for children and their families.