Crafting Your Personal PEC: A Step-by-Step Guide to Enhanced Communication
Communication is the cornerstone of human interaction. Whether you’re engaging in a casual conversation, presenting at a conference, or simply expressing your thoughts and feelings, effective communication is crucial for building relationships, achieving goals, and navigating the complexities of life. For individuals with communication challenges, such as those with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or other developmental disabilities, alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) methods can provide invaluable support.
One such method is the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). PECS is a structured, evidence-based communication system that teaches individuals to initiate communication by exchanging picture symbols for desired items or activities. Unlike some other AAC systems that rely on pre-programmed devices or complex language structures, PECS focuses on teaching functional communication skills in a simple, accessible way. It emphasizes initiation, spontaneity, and the development of social communication skills.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating a personal PECS book, providing step-by-step instructions and practical tips to help you or your loved one communicate more effectively. We will cover everything from gathering materials and selecting pictures to organizing your PECS book and implementing PECS training.
## Understanding the Core Principles of PECS
Before we dive into the practical steps of creating a PECS book, it’s essential to understand the underlying principles of this communication system. PECS is based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and focuses on teaching functional communication skills through positive reinforcement.
**Key Principles of PECS:**
* **Initiation:** PECS teaches individuals to initiate communication by approaching a communication partner and exchanging a picture symbol for a desired item.
* **Spontaneity:** PECS encourages spontaneous communication by prompting individuals to communicate independently, rather than relying on prompts or cues from others.
* **Motivation:** PECS leverages an individual’s natural motivations by using preferred items and activities as reinforcers.
* **Generalization:** PECS promotes generalization of communication skills by teaching individuals to communicate in a variety of settings and with different communication partners.
* **Error Correction:** PECS provides a structured approach to error correction, ensuring that individuals learn to communicate accurately and effectively.
## Step 1: Gathering Your Materials
Before you can begin creating your PECS book, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s a comprehensive list:
* **Binder:** A three-ring binder (approximately 1-2 inches thick) will serve as the main structure for your PECS book. Choose a binder that is durable and easy to open and close.
* **Velcro:** You’ll need both hook and loop Velcro to attach pictures to the PECS book and to allow for easy removal and exchange. Industrial-strength Velcro is recommended for durability.
* **Laminator:** A laminator will protect your picture symbols from damage and ensure that they last longer. Laminating sheets are also required.
* **Laminating Sheets:** These sheets protect the picture cards from wear and tear and make them easier to clean.
* **Scissors:** A good pair of scissors is essential for cutting out the picture symbols and Velcro pieces.
* **Paper Cutter (Optional):** A paper cutter can help you create clean, straight cuts for your picture symbols.
* **Blank Paper or Cardstock:** You’ll need blank paper or cardstock to print your picture symbols on. Cardstock is more durable than regular paper.
* **Printer:** A printer is needed to print the picture symbols. A color printer is recommended for visually appealing pictures.
* **Camera or Access to Images:** You’ll need a way to obtain pictures for your PECS book. You can use a digital camera to take photos of preferred items and activities, or you can access images online through websites that offer free or paid picture symbol libraries.
* **Software for Creating Picture Symbols (Optional):** While you can create picture symbols manually using drawing tools or by printing images directly, software like Boardmaker or LessonPix can simplify the process and offer a wide range of pre-made symbols.
* **Reinforcers:** A variety of highly motivating items and activities that the individual enjoys will be used as reinforcers during PECS training. Examples include preferred toys, snacks, drinks, and activities.
## Step 2: Identifying Preferred Items and Activities
The success of PECS relies heavily on identifying highly motivating items and activities that the individual enjoys. These preferred items will serve as reinforcers during PECS training, encouraging the individual to communicate.
**How to Identify Preferred Items and Activities:**
* **Observation:** Observe the individual throughout the day, paying close attention to the items and activities that they gravitate towards. Note what they reach for, what they smile at, and what keeps their attention.
* **Preference Assessment:** Conduct a preference assessment to systematically evaluate the individual’s preferences. There are several types of preference assessments, including:
* **Paired Choice:** Present two items at a time and ask the individual to choose one. Record which item is chosen more often.
* **Multiple Stimulus Without Replacement (MSWO):** Present an array of items and allow the individual to choose one. Remove the chosen item and rearrange the remaining items. Repeat the process until all items have been chosen or the individual loses interest.
* **Single Stimulus:** Present each item individually and observe the individual’s reaction. Record whether they approach, touch, or engage with the item.
* **Interviews:** Talk to parents, caregivers, teachers, and other individuals who know the individual well. Ask them about the individual’s favorite items, activities, and places.
* **Trial and Error:** Introduce new items and activities to the individual and observe their reaction. Keep track of which items and activities are well-received.
**Tips for Identifying Preferred Items and Activities:**
* **Consider Variety:** Choose a variety of items and activities to keep the individual engaged and motivated. Include tangible items (e.g., toys, snacks), activities (e.g., swinging, listening to music), and social interactions (e.g., tickles, hugs).
* **Rotate Items Regularly:** Rotate the preferred items and activities regularly to prevent the individual from becoming bored or satiated. Introduce new items and activities periodically to keep things fresh.
* **Prioritize High-Value Items:** Focus on identifying items and activities that are highly motivating for the individual. These high-value items will be the most effective reinforcers during PECS training.
* **Be Flexible:** Be prepared to adjust your list of preferred items and activities as the individual’s preferences change over time.
## Step 3: Creating Picture Symbols
Once you have identified a list of preferred items and activities, the next step is to create picture symbols for each one. These picture symbols will serve as visual representations of the items and activities that the individual wants to communicate about.
**Methods for Creating Picture Symbols:**
* **Taking Photographs:** Take clear, close-up photographs of the preferred items and activities. Use a neutral background to minimize distractions. Ensure that the photos are well-lit and in focus.
* **Using Pre-Made Symbols:** Utilize pre-made symbol libraries such as Boardmaker, LessonPix, or SymbolStix. These libraries offer a wide range of symbols that are specifically designed for AAC purposes.
* **Drawing Your Own Symbols:** If you have artistic skills, you can draw your own symbols using drawing software or traditional art supplies. Keep the symbols simple and easy to understand.
* **Downloading Images Online:** Search for images online using search engines or image repositories. Ensure that you have the rights to use the images for your PECS book.
**Tips for Creating Effective Picture Symbols:**
* **Use Clear and Unambiguous Images:** Choose images that are easy to understand and clearly represent the intended item or activity. Avoid using abstract or overly complex images.
* **Use Consistent Backgrounds:** Use consistent backgrounds for all of your picture symbols to create a visually cohesive and organized PECS book.
* **Use Consistent Symbol Size:** Maintain a consistent size for all of your picture symbols. A common size is 2 inches by 2 inches, but you can adjust the size to suit your needs.
* **Label Each Symbol:** Label each symbol with the corresponding word or phrase. This will help the individual learn to associate the picture with the spoken word.
* **Laminate the Symbols:** Laminate each picture symbol to protect it from damage and ensure that it lasts longer.
**Example Picture Symbols:**
* **Food:** Picture of a specific food item (e.g., apple, cookie, juice)
* **Toys:** Picture of a favorite toy (e.g., ball, car, doll)
* **Activities:** Picture of an activity (e.g., swinging, watching TV, reading a book)
* **Places:** Picture of a familiar place (e.g., park, school, home)
* **People:** Picture of a familiar person (e.g., mom, dad, teacher)
## Step 4: Assembling Your PECS Book
Once you have created your picture symbols, the next step is to assemble your PECS book. This involves organizing the symbols in a logical and accessible way, ensuring that the individual can easily find and select the symbols they need to communicate.
**Steps for Assembling Your PECS Book:**
1. **Prepare the Binder:** Open the three-ring binder and insert blank paper or cardstock into the rings.
2. **Attach Velcro Strips:** Attach loop Velcro strips to the pages of the binder. These strips will serve as the attachment points for the picture symbols. You can attach the Velcro strips horizontally or vertically, depending on your preference.
3. **Attach Velcro Squares to Symbols:** Attach hook Velcro squares to the back of each picture symbol. Ensure that the Velcro squares are securely attached to the symbols.
4. **Arrange the Symbols:** Arrange the picture symbols on the Velcro strips in a logical and accessible way. Consider the following factors when arranging the symbols:
* **Frequency of Use:** Place the most frequently used symbols in easily accessible locations, such as the front pages of the PECS book.
* **Categorization:** Group related symbols together, such as food items, toys, and activities. This will help the individual find the symbols they need more quickly.
* **Visual Clarity:** Ensure that the symbols are spaced adequately apart to prevent visual clutter.
5. **Create a Sentence Strip (Optional):** A sentence strip is a strip of paper or cardstock that is attached to the front of the PECS book. The individual can use the sentence strip to construct simple sentences by attaching picture symbols to it.
6. **Add a Carrying Handle (Optional):** A carrying handle can make it easier for the individual to transport the PECS book. You can purchase a pre-made carrying handle or create one using fabric or webbing.
**Tips for Organizing Your PECS Book:**
* **Start Simple:** Begin with a small number of symbols and gradually add more as the individual becomes more proficient with PECS.
* **Use Color-Coding:** Use color-coding to categorize the symbols. For example, you could use different colored paper or borders for food items, toys, and activities.
* **Label Each Page:** Label each page of the PECS book with a clear and concise title. This will help the individual and their communication partners navigate the book more easily.
* **Regularly Review and Update:** Regularly review and update the PECS book to ensure that it contains the most relevant and motivating symbols for the individual.
## Step 5: Implementing PECS Training
Once you have created your PECS book, the next step is to implement PECS training. PECS training is a structured, multi-phased approach to teaching individuals to communicate using picture symbols. The training typically involves six phases, each building upon the previous phase.
**The Six Phases of PECS Training:**
* **Phase 1: Physical Exchange:** In this phase, the individual learns to exchange a single picture symbol for a desired item. The communication partner physically assists the individual in picking up the picture symbol, reaching towards the communication partner, and releasing the symbol into the communication partner’s hand. The communication partner immediately provides the desired item and verbally reinforces the exchange (e.g., “You want juice! Here’s juice.”).
* **Phase 2: Distance and Persistence:** In this phase, the individual learns to travel to the communication partner to initiate the exchange. The communication partner gradually increases the distance between themselves and the individual, requiring the individual to move towards them to complete the exchange. The individual also learns to persist in their communication attempts, even if the communication partner is not immediately available.
* **Phase 3: Picture Discrimination:** In this phase, the individual learns to discriminate between two or more picture symbols to request their desired item. The communication partner presents two picture symbols, one representing the desired item and one representing a non-preferred item. The individual must select the correct picture symbol to receive the desired item. The number of picture symbols is gradually increased as the individual becomes more proficient.
* **Phase 4: Sentence Structure:** In this phase, the individual learns to construct simple sentences using a sentence strip. The individual first picks up a “I want” picture symbol and attaches it to the sentence strip. Then, they pick up the picture symbol representing the desired item and attach it to the sentence strip next to the “I want” symbol. The individual then removes the entire sentence strip and exchanges it with the communication partner to request the desired item.
* **Phase 5: Answering Questions:** In this phase, the individual learns to answer simple questions using picture symbols. The communication partner asks questions such as “What do you want?” or “What do you see?” The individual responds by selecting the appropriate picture symbol and presenting it to the communication partner.
* **Phase 6: Commenting:** In this phase, the individual learns to comment on things in their environment using picture symbols. The communication partner encourages the individual to make comments about objects, people, and events. For example, the communication partner might show the individual a picture of a dog and ask “What is that?” The individual would respond by selecting the picture symbol representing “dog” and presenting it to the communication partner.
**Tips for Implementing PECS Training:**
* **Start Early:** Begin PECS training as early as possible. The earlier an individual starts learning to communicate, the more successful they are likely to be.
* **Be Consistent:** Be consistent with your PECS training efforts. Conduct training sessions regularly and use the same procedures each time.
* **Use Positive Reinforcement:** Use positive reinforcement to encourage the individual to communicate. Provide praise, attention, and desired items when the individual communicates successfully.
* **Minimize Prompts:** Minimize the use of prompts as much as possible. The goal is to teach the individual to communicate independently.
* **Generalize Skills:** Generalize the individual’s communication skills to different settings and with different communication partners. This will help the individual use PECS in a variety of situations.
* **Seek Professional Guidance:** Seek guidance from a qualified speech-language pathologist or PECS consultant. They can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the PECS training process.
## Troubleshooting Common PECS Challenges
While PECS is a highly effective communication system, it’s not uncommon to encounter challenges during the training process. Here are some common challenges and tips for troubleshooting them:
* **Individual is Not Motivated by the Preferred Items:** If the individual is not motivated by the preferred items you have selected, try identifying new items that are more appealing. Conduct a preference assessment to systematically evaluate the individual’s preferences.
* **Individual is Not Initiating Communication:** If the individual is not initiating communication, try increasing the level of motivation. Make sure that the preferred items are highly desirable and that the individual has limited access to them outside of PECS training sessions. You can also try using environmental arrangements to create opportunities for communication. For example, you could place a desired item out of reach, requiring the individual to request it using PECS.
* **Individual is Not Discriminating Between Picture Symbols:** If the individual is not discriminating between picture symbols, try simplifying the task. Start with only two picture symbols and gradually increase the number as the individual becomes more proficient. Make sure that the picture symbols are visually distinct and easy to differentiate. You can also try using error correction procedures to help the individual learn to select the correct symbol.
* **Individual is Not Generalizing Skills:** If the individual is not generalizing skills to different settings and with different communication partners, try practicing PECS in a variety of situations. Take the PECS book to different places and encourage the individual to communicate with different people. You can also try using video modeling to show the individual how to use PECS in different contexts.
* **Individual is Frustrated or Resistant:** If the individual is frustrated or resistant to PECS training, take a break and try again later. Make sure that the training sessions are fun and engaging. Use positive reinforcement to encourage the individual to participate. You can also try modifying the training procedures to make them more enjoyable for the individual.
## Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your PECS Implementation
Once the individual has mastered the basic phases of PECS, there are several ways to expand your PECS implementation and further enhance their communication skills.
* **Adding More Vocabulary:** Continuously add new picture symbols to the PECS book to expand the individual’s vocabulary. Focus on adding symbols that are relevant to their interests and needs.
* **Teaching Attributes:** Teach the individual to use picture symbols to describe the attributes of objects, such as color, size, shape, and texture. This will help them communicate more specific information.
* **Teaching Verbs:** Teach the individual to use picture symbols to represent actions, such as “eat,” “drink,” “play,” and “sleep.” This will allow them to communicate about what they are doing.
* **Teaching Prepositions:** Teach the individual to use picture symbols to represent prepositions, such as “on,” “in,” “under,” and “next to.” This will allow them to communicate about the location of objects.
* **Using PECS with Technology:** Integrate PECS with technology by using PECS apps on tablets or smartphones. These apps offer a convenient and portable way to use PECS. They also often include features such as speech output, which can further enhance communication.
## Conclusion
Creating a personal PECS book is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly improve the communication skills and quality of life for individuals with communication challenges. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can empower yourself or your loved one to communicate more effectively, express their needs and desires, and participate more fully in the world around them.
Remember that PECS is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, persistent, and supportive, and celebrate the individual’s progress along the way. With dedication and consistent effort, PECS can unlock a world of communication possibilities.
**Disclaimer:** This article provides general information about creating a personal PECS book. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Consult with a qualified speech-language pathologist or PECS consultant for individualized guidance and support.