# Makaton, PECS and symbols: which communication support should we use?

> What each approach is, how they differ, and how families and schools can choose and combine them.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/makaton-pecs-symbols
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** Makaton uses signs and symbols alongside speech. PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) teaches children to communicate by exchanging pictures, in structured phases. Symbol sets like Widgit are used for visual timetables, labels and communication boards. They can be combined, and none of them stops speech developing. A speech and language therapist can help choose.

**Key takeaways**
- **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.[1][2][3]

## 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?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/will-my-autistic-child-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

**Start with choices.** Two picture choices at snack time is a simple, powerful first step, whatever system you use.

Free printable: [Free printable: two-choice board](https://theautismkit.com/printables/choice-board.pdf)

## What can we try this week?

- [ ] Ask school which system they use
- [ ] Learn three Makaton signs for everyday words
- [ ] Use a two-choice board at snack time

## Common questions

### Will signing or pictures stop my child talking?

No. A research review found augmentative and alternative communication did not reduce speech, and speech often increased afterwards.

### Can we use Makaton and PECS together?

Yes. Many children use a mix: signs for quick words, pictures for requests, and symbols on timetables.

### Where can we learn Makaton?

The Makaton Charity lists training and resources. Many schools and speech and language therapy services also run courses.

## Sources

1. The Makaton Charity. https://www.makaton.org/
2. Pyramid Educational Consultants UK (PECS). https://pecs-unitedkingdom.com/
3. Widgit. https://www.widgit.com/
4. Millar DC, Light JC, Schlosser RW. The impact of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on the speech production of individuals with developmental disabilities. JSLHR, 2006. https://doi.org/10.1044/1092-4388(2006/021)

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.