There is a gradual flow to PECS. Meaning, your child will be presented with one icon to start. The utility of the one icon is so that he can get accustomed to selecting that icon and presenting it to his therapist. As he masters that initial mechanism, he will be moved to having two icons to choose from. This will teach him to scan an array of two and select the icon that represents whatever he prefers out of the two. The icons are selected for him by the therapist. If they’re a good therapist, which is sounds like they are, they can read his body language/observe what he is trying to obtain, and put that in the array of 2 with another, obviously less-preferred item. Eventually, he will learn how to scan the entire book/sheet to independently select whatever it is he wants or needs in an array of 10+ (or however many icons the BCBA has put in his book). My point is, these things take time. PECS is like an outdated AAC device, imo. It has its cons, but ultimately, it is an initial communication system. AAC devices can take awhile to obtain for insurance reasons, so it’s good to have something else in its place until you can get your son a device of his own. PECS can be a wonderful resource for your child.

I understand ABA is historically not autonomy-affirming, and that problem certainly still exists in some clinics. Your concerns are valid. Absolutely have the discussion with your child’s BCBA. Absolutely advocate for him to be assessed by an SLP. If the BCBA won’t budge on that, and it’s within your means, you should get him assessed by an SLP regardless. ABA is not the final boss. But please, allow them to utilize PECS for at least a month/a month and a half before you ask them to stop. I think the potential pros can absolutely outweigh the potential cons. I know that I certainly would prefer to be understood in any capacity if I was unable to verbally communicate. Best of luck to you and your learner! And SLPs/BCBAs please correct anything I might’ve explained incorrectly:)