Mastering the Six Phases of PECS: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mastering the Six Phases of PECS: A Step-by-Step Guide

PECSAutism SupportCommunication TrainingChild DevelopmentSpecial Education

Studies show that children who use PECS often start developing verbal communication alongside their picture exchanges!

Key Points

  • PECS is taught in six structured phases
  • Each phase builds upon previous skills
  • Progress happens at the child's own pace
  • Consistent practice is essential
  • Celebration of small wins encourages progress

The Six Phases of PECS

Phase 1: How to Communicate

In this initial phase, children learn the basic exchange: giving a picture to receive a desired item. The focus is on teaching the physical action of communication.

Key Activities:

  • Present a single picture of a desired item
  • Guide the child to exchange it
  • Immediately reward successful exchanges

Phase 2: Distance and Persistence

Children learn that communication works even when items or communication partners aren't immediately visible.

Goals:

  • Using pictures in different locations
  • Communicating with different people
  • Persisting when communication isn't immediately successful

Phase 3: Picture Discrimination

This phase teaches children to select specific pictures from multiple options.

Implementation:

  • Introduce multiple pictures
  • Teach selection based on preference
  • Use a PECS Communication Book
  • Encourage independent initiation

Phase 4: Sentence Structure

Children begin forming simple sentences using picture combinations.

Example:

  • "I want" + item picture
  • Combining action and object pictures
  • Building more complex requests

Phase 5: Responsive Requesting

The focus shifts to answering questions and responding to prompts.

Skills Developed:

  • Answering "What do you want?"
  • Making spontaneous requests
  • Expanding communication vocabulary

Phase 6: Commenting

The final phase develops the ability to comment on the environment and experiences.

Communication Examples:

  • "I see" statements
  • "I hear" observations
  • Expressing feelings and opinions

Implementation Tips

  1. Start with highly motivating items
  2. Be consistent with responses
  3. Celebrate every success
  4. Practice in various settings
  5. Involve all caregivers in the process

Remember: Progress through these phases should be guided by your child's comfort and success at each level.