- Makaton: signs and symbols alongside speech.
- PECS: communicating by exchanging pictures, in structured phases.
- Symbol sets (like Widgit) for timetables, labels and boards.
- They can be combined, and don't stop speech.
What's the difference?
| Makaton | PECS | Symbol sets (e.g. Widgit) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Signs and symbols used with speech | Exchanging picture cards to communicate | A library of symbols |
| Main use | Everyday communication and understanding | Starting to make requests, then sentences | Timetables, labels, boards, adapted texts |
| Who teaches it | Families, schools, therapists after training | Trained staff, following PECS phases | Anyone making visual materials |
Sources: Makaton Charity, Pyramid Educational Consultants and Widgit.123
Will they stop speech?
No. A research review found augmentative and alternative communication did not reduce speech, and in many cases speech increased afterwards.4 See Will my autistic child learn to talk?
How do we choose?
Try
- Asking a speech and language therapist to assess
- Using the same system at home and school
- Combining approaches if it helps
- Treating every point, sign or picture as real communication
Skip
- Waiting for speech before trying other ways
- Different symbols in every setting
Free printable: two-choice boardPDF · 2 pages · two picture slots, plus food cards
Download Free printable: two-choice boardWhat can we try this week?
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