Many people with special needs, including those with autism, have difficulty with both expressive and receptive communication. For parents and professionals, it can be confusing selecting which approach to use and deciding what to work on first. If the individual is nonverbal, teams often ask themselves, do we spend time encouraging speech and if so, for how long? Should we instead pursue alternative/augmentative communication (AAC) systems? What specific skills should we focus on that will make a real difference to the learner?
Pyramid can help answer these questions. In addition to the evidence-based Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), we offer a variety of workshops and onsite support focusing on teaching critical communication skills that can be implemented no matter what modality the learner uses. Embedding communication skills into the day’s activities is of the utmost importance and practical methods of making this happen are woven into all our services.
Communication Workshops Available:
- PECS Overview
- PECS Level 1 Training
- PECS Level 2 Training
- Teaching Critical Communication Skills
- Transitioning from PECS to SGDs (Speech Generating Devices)
- Analysing and Fine-Tuning Communication
- Pyramid Approach to Teleservices: Enhancing Learning and PECS at Home
- Refresh Your PECS
- Motivate Your Learners to Communicate!
- PECSTalk Overview
- What’s Next? Independence Through Visual Schedules
- When Modeling Isn’t Enough: Effective Strategies for Teaching Independence with High Tech AAC
- Addressing PECS Myths & Misconceptions