PECs 2 Day Basic Training Workshop - A Parent's Review

PEC's (The Picture Exchange Communication System) for me is a realistic,functional alternative means of communication. I really wanted to offer my 3yr old son a route out of his daily frustrations of not speaking and I felt that a visual/picture format of communication would be perfect for him.

Having had some success using PEC's with my son's Speech & Language Therapist, I felt excited by the prospect of attending a 2 day basic training workshop they regularly hold around the UK. The workshop not only broke down step-by-step how to use PEC's effectively using trial & error, but also focused upon building sentences up from one word picture exchanges. We were given clear course material to work from. We watched video excerpts/worked in pairs/had Question & Answer sessions that kept the 2 days fun as well as informative. Yes it was a lot of information to absorb but they handled that by offering different teaching styles (plus well timed breaks with food & beverages on offer). To summarise, I did find the course a challenge. I was so happy to of taken the opportunity to complete it though. It really improved my son's confidence in telling us what he wants without the upset & frustration. Not to mention my own confidence in how to encourage him has really grown.

I'd absolutely recommend this course to anyone interested in helping children or adults to communicate without frustration. Especially parents! (don't be put off by the high number of professionals attending the course). It's not long before you will pick up these new skills and are off and running! There is no better feeling as a parent than knowing you are truly helping your child to develop & grow.