PECS Phases 1-6 Explained
What each phase actually asks of the learner, when to move on, and the mistakes that stall progress.
The six phases, without jargon
PECS is not "showing pictures". It is a structured protocol: Phase 1 teaches the physical exchange, Phase 2 distance and persistence, Phase 3 discrimination between symbols, Phase 4 sentence structure with "I want", Phase 5 answering "What do you want?", and Phase 6 commenting. Skipping ahead is the most common reason progress stalls. AutismDock gives you a digital board organised by phase so practice matches where the learner actually is.
Key benefits
Phase-by-phase
Clear criteria to move on.
Daily practice
Digital and printed cards.
Sentence strip
"I want" from phase 4.
Progress log
Evidence for the team.
What's included
- Boards organised by PECS phase.
- Sentence strip with voice output.
- Fitzgerald colour coding.
- Printable cards for physical exchange.
- Progress tracking per phase.
- Therapist-shareable summaries.
- Five languages.
- Free to start.
Frequently asked questions
How long does each phase take?+
It varies widely — days for some learners, months for others. Criteria, not calendars, decide progression.
Can I start at phase 4?+
No. Discrimination and persistence from earlier phases are prerequisites for reliable sentence use.
Does digital PECS replace physical cards?+
It complements them. Many teams use printed cards for exchange and the app for practice and expansion.
Do I need a certified trainer?+
Formal PECS training is recommended, but parents can support practice at home between sessions.
Is it free?+
Yes, the digital board and printable cards are free to start.