How can break cards help students who have difficulties with expressive language?

In my last post I discussed issues with expressive language among students with autism spectrum disorders. It is common for a student with ASD to be in need of a break, but unable to express it. When children feel overwhelmed by communication and interaction with peers, they need a way to request a break. One element of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is break cards. Instructors teach children to use break cards by first sensing that the child needs a break and having the child point to the break card. This progresses to the point where the child, acting on their own, monitors how they are feeling and hands the card to the teacher if a break is needed.

Resources

https://handsinautism.iupui.edu/pdf/How_To_Help_Break_Cards.pdf

http://www.educateautism.com/teaching-tips/give-students-some-control.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_7408464_teach-break-cards-autistic-children.html