Will my child use the break card to avoid everything?

Some children do at first, which is normal. Keep breaks short, return to the task each time, and the card soon settles into a tool for real overwhelm rather than escape.

Which picture should I use for break?

Use the one your child connects with their own break: a chair for a calm-down seat, or a child sitting quietly. You can switch the picture on this page before you print.

Where should the break card live?

Somewhere your child can always reach it: on their desk, the front of a communication book, or a keyring. A card that is hard to reach is not used.

Is the break card free?

Yes. Download the PDF with no email required, or customize the card in the free maker.

Break PECS Card: Free Printable Break Visual

A break card gives your child a way to say "I need to stop for a minute" before frustration turns into a meltdown. Print a sheet of them, or edit the card in the free PECS Card Maker.

Choose the picture

Customize in the PECS Card Maker

Card size

Paper

A full sheet of 12 cards at 2 inch on US Letter. Cut along the dotted line. No email needed.

Also in the sets: Classroom Request Cards and Core Request Cards.

When to use the break card

Use it during homework, therapy, long errands, noisy places, or any task your child finds hard. A break card works best when the break is real and short, and when your child knows exactly where they go and what happens next.

How to teach the break card

Choose a calm break spot and a short break length, such as two minutes on a beanbag.
During an easy task, model the card: hand it over yourself and say "break", then go to the break spot together.
Watch for early signs your child is getting overwhelmed, and guide them to hand you the card before the signs grow.
Honor every break request quickly at first, then return to the task with a first-then card so the break has a clear end.

PECS Communication Cards

Printable picture cards, sentence strips, and a communication book to start and grow picture exchange.

Get The Free Sample See The Pack, $8

Cards that go with it

Help

All Done and More Yes and No PECS card

Yes and No My Turn PECS card

My Turn

Open

Frequently asked questions

Will my child use the break card to avoid everything?: Some children do at first, which is normal. Keep breaks short, return to the task each time, and the card soon settles into a tool for real overwhelm rather than escape.
Which picture should I use for break?: Use the one your child connects with their own break: a chair for a calm-down seat, or a child sitting quietly. You can switch the picture on this page before you print.
Where should the break card live?: Somewhere your child can always reach it: on their desk, the front of a communication book, or a keyring. A card that is hard to reach is not used.
Is the break card free?: Yes. Download the PDF with no email required, or customize the card in the free maker.

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