In PECS Phase 1, what is the objective for the student?

In PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) Phase 1, the objective is to teach the student the skill of communication through the exchange of pictures. Specifically, the student is trained to pick up a picture of an item they desire and then release that picture into the hand of a communication partner. This process encourages the child to understand that the picture serves as a symbol for the item, which reinforces the connection between the visual representation and the actual object. By successfully completing this exchange, the student begins to develop a functional communication method that can be expanded in subsequent phases.

The emphasis on the physical act of handing over the picture is crucial in this initial phase, as it establishes the foundation for understanding the communicative value of their actions and sets the stage for more complex communication skills in later phases.