7 Free Pecs Printables For Easy Communication

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Effective communication is the foundation of any successful interaction, whether it's between parents and children, educators and students, or healthcare professionals and patients. For individuals with autism, apraxia, or other speech disorders, communication can be a significant challenge. This is where Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) come into play. PECS is a widely used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) method that enables individuals to communicate their needs and wants through pictures.

What is PECS?

PECS is a simple yet powerful communication tool that involves exchanging pictures to convey messages. It was first developed in the 1980s by Lori Frost and Andy Bondy as a way to help individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities communicate more effectively. The system consists of a set of pictures or symbols that represent different items, actions, or concepts, which the individual can use to express their needs and wants.

How Does PECS Work?

The PECS system is relatively straightforward. Here's a step-by-step overview of how it works:

1. Introduction to PECS: The individual is introduced to the PECS system and taught how to use it.
2. Picture selection: The individual selects a picture from a set of options to communicate their message.
3. Picture exchange: The individual exchanges the picture with a communication partner, such as a parent, educator, or healthcare professional.
4. Message delivery: The communication partner responds to the message by providing the requested item or action.

Benefits of PECS

The benefits of PECS are numerous. Some of the most significant advantages include:

• Improved communication: PECS enables individuals to communicate their needs and wants more effectively, reducing frustration and anxiety.
• Increased independence: By using PECS, individuals can take control of their communication and make choices about their daily lives.
• Enhanced social interactions: PECS can help individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities interact more effectively with their peers and communication partners.
• Reduced behavioral problems: By providing a means of communication, PECS can help reduce behavioral problems associated with frustration and anxiety.

Free PECS Printables

To help you get started with PECS, we've compiled a list of 7 free PECS printables that you can use to support communication. These printables include:

1. Basic needs: A set of pictures representing basic needs such as food, drink, and toileting.
2. Emotions: A set of pictures representing different emotions such as happy, sad, and angry.
3. Food: A set of pictures representing different food items such as fruits, vegetables, and snacks.
4. Drinks: A set of pictures representing different drinks such as water, juice, and soda.
5. Activities: A set of pictures representing different activities such as playing, reading, and watching TV.
6. Toys: A set of pictures representing different toys such as blocks, dolls, and puzzles.
7. Symbols: A set of pictures representing different symbols such as yes, no, and maybe.

These printables can be used to create a PECS communication book or displayed on a wall or board for easy access.

Creating a PECS Communication Book

Creating a PECS communication book is a straightforward process that involves the following steps:

1. Choose the printables: Select the printables you want to use and print them out.
2. Laminate the pictures: Laminate the pictures to protect them from damage and make them easier to clean.
3. Create a book: Create a book using a binder or folder and add the laminated pictures.
4. Organize the pictures: Organize the pictures into categories such as food, drinks, and activities.
5. Teach the individual: Teach the individual how to use the PECS communication book to communicate their needs and wants.

Conclusion

PECS is a powerful communication tool that can help individuals with autism, apraxia, and other speech disorders communicate more effectively. By using the free PECS printables provided, you can create a PECS communication book or display the pictures on a wall or board to support communication. Remember to teach the individual how to use the PECS system and provide ongoing support and encouragement to help them communicate more effectively.