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Autism

Autism Childcare Communication Systems: PECS, AAC Devices and Visual Schedules

Table of Contents

Who This Guide Is For

  • Parents of children with communication challenges exploring AAC systems
  • Families researching PECS, visual schedules, and communication tools
  • Caregivers implementing visual supports at home and school
  • New Jersey residents finding speech therapy and communication resources
  • Providers supporting non-speaking or minimally verbal children
  • Anyone new to AAC and augmentative communication systems

Introduction

Raising a child with autism can present unique challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to communication. Children with autism often experience difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, which can impact their ability to express needs, understand instructions, and engage with peers. As a parent of a young child in New Jersey, understanding and implementing effective communication systems is crucial for fostering their development and integration into daily life. This post will explore three key communication systems widely used in autism childcare: Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, and visual schedules. Each system offers unique benefits and can be tailored to meet your child’s specific needs.

Communication Challenges

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects each child differently, but communication challenges are often a common thread. These challenges can range from delayed speech and language development to difficulties in understanding body language, facial expressions, and other social cues. For parents, this can lead to a frustrating cycle of miscommunication and unmet needs, both for the child and family members.

Children may experience:

  • Delayed speech development: Some children might not speak at all or may start speaking later than peers.
  • Non-verbal communication difficulties: Struggling to interpret gestures, body language, and facial expressions.
  • Limited expressive language: Difficulty expressing thoughts, feelings, or needs verbally.
  • Echolalia: Repeating words or phrases without understanding their meaning.

Understanding these challenges is the first step towards finding solutions. Addressing these communication hurdles early on can lead to significant improvements, helping your child to thrive both at home and in social settings.

PECS Explained

What is PECS?

The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a form of augmentative and alternative communication designed to teach children with autism to communicate using pictures. Developed in the late 1980s, PECS focuses on initiating communication with others, which is a fundamental challenge for many children with autism.

How Does PECS Work?

PECS involves teaching children to exchange a picture of an item they want with a communication partner, such as a parent or teacher, who then provides the item. Over time, the system becomes more complex, incorporating sentence strips and more detailed communication exchanges. The goal is to encourage spontaneous communication, reduce frustration, and increase social interaction.

Benefits of PECS

Frequently Asked Questions