PECS Cards for Play and Activities
A set of play cards so your child can ask for a turn, choose a toy, or request a favorite activity instead of grabbing or melting down.
- 4 cards
- Free printable PDF
- Editable in browser
Play cards give your child a way to ask for the fun stuff. This set covers play, ball, book, and toy, the requests that come up during free time and on the floor together. When your child can hand you the ball card, you can keep the game going instead of guessing what they want.
Print the cards on cardstock if you have it, cut them apart, and laminate each one or cover it with clear tape so they hold up to active play. A hook-and-loop dot on the back lets a card stick to a board, a toy bin, or a strip your child can carry.
Play is one of the best times to teach PECS because your child is already motivated. When they hand you the book card, read the book right then. Following their lead during play teaches them that the picture brings the activity they want.
When to use this template
Best for free time and floor play, when your child wants a turn or a specific toy, and a motivating set to practice with because play is its own reward.
How to customize this template
- Swap the toy card for a photo of your child's actual favorite toy, so the choice is unmistakable.
- Add a card for each game your child asks for often, like bubbles, blocks, or a tablet.
- Pair the play cards with a first-then board so your child can see what comes after the activity.
Frequently asked questions
- How do play cards help my child?
- Play cards let your child ask for a turn or choose an activity instead of grabbing, whining, or melting down. Because the reward is the fun itself, they are a motivating way to practice handing over a picture to make a request.
- What play cards should I include?
- Start with a general play card plus a few favorites like ball, book, and toy. Then add the specific games and toys your child reaches for most, swapping in photos where a real object is easier to recognize.
- Are these play PECS cards free?
- Yes. Download the print-ready PDF with no email required, or open the set in the free editor to add your child's own toys, change the labels, or print extra copies of the cards they use most.
Related templates
Core Request Cards
The first eight PECS cards most children need: want, more, help, break, stop, all done, yes, and no.
Feelings PECS Cards
Five picture cards for naming big emotions: happy, sad, angry, scared, and calm.
Food and Drink PECS Cards
Mealtime and snack cards your child can hand over to ask: eat, drink, apple, milk, and water.