I have a 2 1/2 with just Autism he was dx with PDD-NOS is January. We were using PECS with him but it was very hard and he didn't seem to get it so I switched to using Signs easier for me because I always have them I don't have to go digging for pictures. I still use some pictures for transitions. We had his re-eval and they said he is ready for PECS.

Any suggest when to start PECS? He will be going to school in January so I would like him to be prepared. I have been using real pictures to give him choices is this how you are suppose to start?

We use sign with Peter until a few months ago (he's 4 1/2). We started PECS and he is slowing getting it. It can be a very hard concept for the kids. Unless you have the picture of the exact thing, it can be confusing. With signs, it is his most used form of communication. We wrote it in his IEP to be learning new signs for the class, teachers and Peter. So far I am happy using both.
Good luck

I can only speak for what works for us. I find the concept of "total communication" to be more effective then JUST one or two forms of communication. Since Russell has a dual DX and lang/comm/speech is by far VERY VERY delayed and/or non existant at times, using verbal speech and JUST pecs for Russell did NOT work.

Total Communication allows us and his school to simultaniously use verbal speech, signing, PECS, real objects AND Aug comm devices. Russell is in a class where his peers are severly delayed like he is so this is the ONLY way they progress. After our eval at the DS clinic we were urged to go with this concept or Russell's comm/lang skills would never progress.

We do this approach not only to GET Russell to try to communicate in one way or another but we also do this so Russell can receptively understand us whatever way his brain needs. THIS is key.

We also use "real" picture PECS and at the moment I am not a big fan of "symbols" ect although his class does use both real pics and symbols/cartoons. Russell also gets Music Therapy to help also.

A.

Thank you for your replies. I like the idea of total communication and I have been using real pictures and I just got more supples to make more. I've been working with him on choices and I think he is getting it. I know he understands some signs too.

You need a Xyron 900! It's a about the size of a large shoe box, and makes anything into a magnet while laminating it. I use mine ALL the time! You can also make laminated stickers with it!

I have to agree that a laminator is a wonderful thing to have. I don't have the one Leah has but I do have one from Walmart that does just fine. Inexpensive but effective. The pics would get ruined without it.

A.

With Mikey we use signs, PECS, pointing, the few words he knows, and anything else that can help him get his message across. The problem with relying on PECS is that if the PECS isn't around then he would be unable to communicate. The nice thing about signs is that very rarely are you caught forgetting to bring your hands with you!

OH.. and I realized you asked WHEN to start PECS (or other forms of communication).... as young as possible if you ask me.

A.