What Are PECS? (And No, Not the Boob Kind)

 What Are PECS? (And No, Not the Boob Kind)

The Ultimate Parent-Friendly Guide to Picture Exchange Communication Systems

So, what actually are PECS?

If you’re new to the world of acronyms, meltdowns, and laminated everything, let me break it down:
PECS stands for Picture Exchange Communication System — a fancy pants way of saying: talking using pictures instead of words.

It’s a visual communication method that helps kids (especially those with autism, sensory processing differences, or speech delays) express what they need, want, feel, or really, really don’t want (👀 looking at you, broccoli).




Who is PECS for?

💬 Kids who are nonverbal
🧠 Kids who are overwhelmed and can’t get their words out
🗯️ Kids who communicate better with visuals (aka, most sensory kids)
👀 Parents, carers, and teachers trying to guess if “eh-eh-eh” means tablet, snack, or a full-scale emotional spiral

Basically, PECS is for anyone who wants to reduce frustration and boost communication — without relying on spoken language.

PECS vs Flashcards – What’s the Difference?

Flashcards = you quiz your kid.
PECS = your kid tells YOU something. Boom.

PECS is child-led, functional, and often part of an actual system that teaches communication step-by-step. But honestly? Even if you’re not following the full PECS training model, just having visual cards available can change the game.

Why PECS Cards Actually Work

  • ✅ They take the pressure off talking

  • ✅ They reduce tantrums by giving kids a way to be heard

  • ✅ They help with routines, transitions, and meltdown moments

  • ✅ They work at home, in school, and on the go

  • ✅ They support emotional literacy (even for adults, let’s be real)



🔥 Ready to Try PECS?

Here’s what I’ve got for you 👇

💖 My 26 Printable PECS Cards Pack

A dreamy pastel, sensory-safe printable set with core communication needs like:




😂 NEW: The Chaos Edition (aka, Funny PECS Cards for Real Life)

Because let’s be honest, sometimes what our kids need to say is:

  • “WiFi’s gone. I’m gone.”

  • “I licked it so it’s mine.”

  • “Too much buffering.”

  • “You said five minutes.”

This 8-card chaos set is equal parts hilarious and functional, designed for kids with big feelings and even bigger sass.
➡️ Get the Chaos Edition Here also cheap as chips!



🧩 Final Thoughts from a Sensory Mum

PECS changed our day-to-day communication.
It made things calmer.
It gave my child more autonomy.
And let’s be real — it saved my sanity more than once.

So whether you're PECS-ing like a pro or just starting with a card or two, I see you. You're doing great.
And hey — you've got options. Chaos included 💜

➡️ Want both sets?
Keep an eye out for the PECS Mega Bundle coming soon!


Check out more popular blog posts from Sensory Kidz Universe!

SURVIVING THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS!

THE SENSORY PARENT JOURNAL I NEEDED!

DEAR SCHOOLS, SENSORY BREAKS ARE NOT A REWARD, THEY'RE A LIFELINE!
















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