The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) vs. American Sign Language (ASL)

The debate is out about which communication system is better. PECS or Sign Language.

Well, based on what the literature says, one is not better than the other. It all depends on what is appropriate and going to be functional for your child.

Here is what you should consider when deciding which system to use for your child.

1. Does my child have the fine motor capabilities to imitate various ASL signs?

2. Does my child have some verbalization where the PECS system would benefit simply as a supplemental aid?

3. Because of our ethnic background and the accent my child has, would the PECS system be more appropriate to aid as a way for others to understand him?

4. Since my child is completely non-verbal and lacks the fine motor capabilities to imitate, would the PECS system be more beneficial?

5. Can my child discriminate pictures if presented in front of him?

6. Does my child already have a few signs within his repertoire that is being utilized at home?

If these questions are too difficult for you to answer on your own, there are professionals who can help you. If your child is enrolled in Speech services, your SPL therapist can assist you with these questions. If your child is enrolled in a center for children diagnosed with autism, the directors and/or supervisors there could assist you as well. Regardless of which system you decide to go with, the most important thing to remember is that it needs to be functional for your child!

Functional Communication is a core deficit of autism, if your child cannot communicate functionally on his own, then it is your responsibility to teach your child a system that will allow him to be independently communicative.

Remember that our goal is to FOSTER INDEPENDENCE WITH COMMUNICATION.

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