PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) cards are a visual communication tool designed to help individuals with speech and language difficulties express their needs and thoughts. They consist of small, durable picture symbols representing objects, actions, emotions, and common phrases. These cards are often used in structured communication exchanges, where a child selects and hands a specific card to a communication partner (e.g., teacher, caregiver) to request an item or convey a message.

Key Features of PECS Cards:

✅ Visual Representation – Uses images, symbols, or photos to support communication.
✅ Exchange-Based System – Encourages the user to initiate communication by handing over a card.
✅ Step-by-Step Learning – Follows a structured teaching approach, starting with simple exchanges and advancing to sentence-building.
✅ Enhances Independence – Helps non-verbal or minimally verbal individuals express themselves.
✅ Used Across Settings – Can be utilized at home, school, therapy, and in social settings.

http://www.mypecs.com/

Key Features of ASL:

✅ Visual-Spatial Language – Uses handshapes, movements, and facial expressions to communicate.
✅ Unique Grammar & Structure – Does not follow English word order but has its own syntax.
✅ Facial Expressions & Body Language – Essential for tone, emotion, and grammatical meaning.
✅ Widely Used – Primarily used in the U.S. and parts of Canada by the Deaf community, interpreters, and educators.
✅ Supports Communication – Helps individuals with hearing impairments express themselves and interact with others.

ASL is valuable for children with hearing impairments, like Hannah, as it provides a way to communicate effectively with teachers, peers, and family members. Would you like to include an ASL learning component in Hannah’s resource kit?

https://lifeprint.com/

Offers speech therapy, ASL classes, and support services for families.
📍 2395 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON
📞 (416) 449-9651
🌐 www.bobrumball.org

2. Silent Voice Canada

Provides family support, ASL classes, and community programs for deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families.
📍 60 St. Clair Ave E, Suite 400, Toronto, ON
📞 (416) 463-1104
🌐 www.silentvoice.ca

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