Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is an evidence-based alternative communication method designed to help individuals with limited or no verbal communication skills. It teaches users to communicate through pictures by exchanging them for desired objects or actions. PECS emphasizes initiating communication, progressing through stages to build more complex communication abilities, including sentence formation and responding to prompts.

Research supports its effectiveness in increasing functional communication skills in individuals with autism, particularly in initiating requests. PECS is widely used in therapeutic and educational settings as a structured and practical tool.