PECS Communication System

Summary

The video introduces the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), used by a four-year-old nonverbal client at a clinic. The system includes tabs for toys, activities, foods, and descriptive words, allowing the client to create sentences using pictures. Initially nonverbal, the client now communicates using PECS, selecting 'I want' with the desired item. The system has evolved from simple to complex sentences over six months, with the client learning to mimic speech. The client independently navigates PECS, effectively communicating his needs.

Takeaways

• 📚 The script introduces a Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) used for nonverbal communication.
• 👦 It is tailored for a four-year-old client who started using it six months ago.
• 🔖 The PECS system consists of a front part with new pictures and pages for creating sentences.
• 🚗 The first page is labeled 'toys' with preferred toys, indicating the client's interests.
• 🏊 The next tab includes different activities like 'bathroom', 'bike', 'outside', and 'twirl'.
• 🍕 Subsequent tabs are dedicated to preferred foods, with more options on the backside.
• 🎨 The client is also learning to describe items using colors and size descriptors like 'little', 'big', 'long', 'square', and 'short'.
• 🗣️ The last tab contains miscellaneous pictures, focusing on 'I want' sentences.
• 👀 The client communicates by selecting 'I want' and the desired item, then handing it to a therapist for reinforcement.
• 🔠 Initially nonverbal, the client is now mimicking and attempting to verbally communicate with guidance.
• 📈 The system has been effective, with the client progressing from simple to more complex sentences over six months.

Q & A

What is the PECS system?

The PECS system, or Picture Exchange Communication System, is a communication system that uses pictures to help individuals with communication difficulties express their needs and wants.

Who is the PECS system designed for?

The PECS system is designed for individuals with communication challenges, such as those on the autism spectrum or with speech delays.

How long has the four-year-old client been using the PECS system?

The four-year-old client has been using the PECS system for about six months.

What are the different sections in the client's PECS system?

The client's PECS system includes sections for toys, activities, foods, descriptions (like colors, sizes, and shapes), and miscellaneous pictures.

How does the client create sentences with the PECS system?

The client creates sentences by combining pictures from different sections of the PECS book. For example, to express 'I want a bike ride,' the client would pick 'I want' and the picture of a bike.

What is the purpose of the blue strip in the PECS system?

The blue strip is where the client places the pictures to create a sentence. Once the sentence is complete, the client removes the strip and hands it to a communication partner.

How does the client receive reinforcement after using the PECS system?

After the client hands the completed sentence strip to a therapist or communication partner, they receive the item or activity they requested as reinforcement.

What is the client's current focus in using the PECS system?

The client is currently focusing on creating 'I want' sentences and is also learning to use descriptive words to enhance his communication.

How has the client's communication improved since starting the PECS system?

The client, who was initially nonverbal, has started to mimic words and attempt to say them after the therapist, indicating an improvement in his communication skills.

What is the long-term goal for the client using the PECS system?

The long-term goal is for the client to be able to create more complex sentences and describe items more effectively, eventually leading to improved communication and independence.

How is the client's progress in the PECS system being measured?

The client's progress is measured by his ability to independently navigate the PECS book, create sentences, and use descriptive words, as well as his engagement in mimicking speech.