The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a widely-used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) approach for children with autism who exhibit limited or no functional speech. Recent research, "The Collateral Effects of PECS Training on Speech Development in Children with Autism," highlights the potential for PECS to facilitate speech development in this population. This blog aims to provide practitioners with actionable insights based on the study's findings to improve their therapeutic approaches.
Key Findings from the Study
The study involved three male children with autism aged 2-3 years. The children were assessed for speech skills and other pre-intervention characteristics such as adaptive functioning, symbolic representation, motor imitation, and receptive and expressive language skills. The results revealed that two of the three participants showed changes in speech production after using PECS.
Pre-Intervention Characteristics
- Adaptive Functioning: All participants had below-average adaptive functioning.
- Symbolic Representation: Scores varied, but symbolic representation skills were generally low.
- Motor Imitation: Participant 3 had higher motor and verbal imitation scores compared to the others.
- Language Skills: All participants performed significantly below average in receptive and expressive language skills.
Speech Development
Two participants showed increased use of sounds to request items during and after PECS training. However, only Participant 3 began using words to request, suggesting that stronger imitation skills might be a key factor in speech development post-PECS intervention.
Actionable Insights for Practitioners
Based on the study's findings, practitioners can take the following steps to optimize outcomes for children with autism:
- Assess Imitation Skills: Evaluate motor and verbal imitation skills as part of the initial assessment. Children with stronger imitation skills may have a higher likelihood of developing functional speech after PECS training.
- Tailor PECS Training: Customize PECS training based on the child's pre-intervention characteristics. For instance, children with lower imitation skills might benefit from additional imitation exercises.
- Parental Involvement: Engage parents in the training process to ensure consistent use of PECS at home. The study showed that parent training and home visits were effective in reinforcing PECS skills.
- Monitor Progress: Regularly assess changes in speech production and other communicative behaviors to adjust the intervention plan as needed.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, it also highlights the need for further research to better understand which children are most likely to benefit from PECS training and why. Practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and consider contributing to the body of knowledge through case studies and clinical trials.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Collateral Effects of PECS Training on Speech Development in Children with Autism.
