Picture Communication Symbols

Picture Communication Symbols

Picture communication symbols (PCS) are designed to convey a particular meaning, not just an object. Messages can be presented and generated through different types of media such as individual cards, paper charts and communication boards, computer display programs and voice output devices. Using these tools can allow an individual to express themselves with more complex types of communication and can allow them to interact easily. The following are links to sites where symbols can be downloaded free.

Picto Selector: A freeware Windows application. This software can be used to create communication/schedule boards and adapted stories. It has a searchable database of over 23000 symbols. This software also allows you to export and import custom pictures.

Do2Learn: This site has black and white picture cards such as the one pictured above, to help individuals to make schedules, story strips and PECS cards. They can be printed as full-size coloring pages, in one and two-inch sizes with or without words. Printed and cut out, these can be used singly or grouped together. Blank image grids in one-inch and two-inch sizes are included for making custom drawings. Selections of blank schedule forms are provided on this site to allow for creation of customized schedule boards. (Picture cards can be cut up and attached to the blank forms.)

Special Education Technology British Columbia: This is a large collection of downloadable visual supports that can be printed and used for receptive and expressive communication. It has a searchable database of picture communication supports for all different areas of life: school, home and community.

Many good ideas and examples on this site!

QuickPics: A free software program to develop communication and language boards for your child at home. This allows you to make communication boards and activities that meet the specific needs of your child. The program has colorful and engaging graphics included. Other Pictures may also be imported making it easy to customize for your child.

Miami-Dade Public Schools: Has many behavioral and visual supports that may be downloaded (access to Boardmaker software required to use and print files) They also have activity specific boards.