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AUTISM GLOSSARY
PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)
DEFINITION
PECS is a communication system that teaches non-speaking individuals to communicate by exchanging picture cards. It follows a structured training protocol and is commonly used in early intervention.
WHY IT MATTERS
PECS can support initial communication for non-speaking autistic children and is used as a bridge to more robust AAC systems.
COMMON MISCONCEPTION
PECS is sometimes mistakenly seen as a ceiling for communication. It is one tool among many. Many children who begin with PECS move on to robust speech-generating devices and develop stronger communication over time.