Although a child on the autism spectrum may lack verbal speech, this does not mean that they also lack desires, thoughts or feelings. It just means that a different way and a different approach to expressing them is needed.
As a parent, the hardest thing is when you feel that your child has something to say but cannot express it. The inability to communicate often leads to frustration, nervousness, tears and misunderstandings in both the child and the parent.
PECS therapy (Picture Exchange Communication System – PECS) is a method that helps a child on the autism spectrum take the first step towards expressing themselves in a clear way that is understandable to the environment.
It is an alternative communication system developed by Lori Frost and Andrew Bondi and is based on the exchange of images – the child provides an image of an object or activity that he desires and thus learns that communication with the environment brings result – achieving his goals, fulfilling his needs and intensions.
Over time and regular use, this exchange of images results in greater independence in the child, encourages his initiative and often leads to the development of verbal speech.
How does PECS therapy work?
This speech-enhancing therapy is carried out in several stages:
1.Picture Exchange – the child learns that by giving a picture he can get something he wants.
2.Spontaneous Initiation – the child independently initiates communication.
3.Distinguishing Pictures – the child learns to choose the correct picture from several offered.
4.Sentence building – the child creates simple sentences (for example: “I want juice”).
5.Responding to Questions – the child responds to questions, such as “What do you want?”
6.Commenting and Elaborating – the child begins to express feelings, opinions and observations.
Each step is adjusted to the child’s pace without creating a sense of pressure.
What are the benefits of PECS therapy:
– Reduces behavior that reflects frustration and insecurity;
– Increases self-esteem and a sense of security;
– Encourages social interaction;
– In the long term, it can stimulate the development of verbal speech.
The parent has a very important role in the whole process, it is not just therapy conducted by a professional for half an hour, it is part of everyday life, a definition of daily routines, part of the child’s play. The initiative to support the child to communicate outside the premises where professional therapy is provided lies with the parents.
Why does PECS require a balanced approach?
One of the foundations of this method of communication is for parents to have realistic expectations.
– It takes time – do not expect results to come overnight, regular work, repetition and active participation from the family are required.
– Not every child reacts the same. Keep in mind that some children progress quickly, others more slowly. Sometimes the method needs to be combined with other approaches.
– It is possible to develop an initial dependence on visual materials, as the child may rely intensively on images, which require special organization to ensure the constant presence of images.
– PECS is not a guarantee that the child will speak.
– For the implementation of this therapy, appropriate training and correct application are required, because if it is not implemented correctly, the effects may be limited.
Keep in mind the following:
PECS is not a magic wand, but a tool for establishing communication. For some families, this tool becomes a turning point in life, but for others it is one part of a broader therapeutic plan. The most important thing is that the child is given a way to express himself – without pressure, without comparing the child’s achievements with the achievements of other children and without unrealistic expectations. Each child has his own rhythm, and our role as parents is to follow him, support him and give him a chance to be heard.
Prepared by:
Ana-Marija Ciglenjak Simonovska
