(just because it is a major pet-peeve of mine) @A MyAutismTeam Member what you described is in P.E.C.S it is using visuals and picture cues, but not P.E.C.S you will see much more growth and long term progress if you start implementing the actual "Picture EXCHANGE communication system" protocol.

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A MyAutis...

Thank you all so much. Yes I do find myself saying No a lot these days with a toddler and pre toddler running around the house. I will be making a trip to the 100 yen store to get some stuff to make up, I'm thinking a photo binder and photo strip. :)

Very similar to the "first,then" thing but when my kids ask for something, instead if saying no, I tell them when they can have it. To me it felt more natural. For some reason my brain didn't want to wrap itself around the rigid "first, then" structure. If they asked for cookies, I would just say "yes, you can have a cookie after dinner"
I realize that's actually saying the exact same thing in a different way but it worked better for me and it was easier for my husband too. When I told him to use "first, then" he was flummoxed but when I said "instead of saying no, just tell them when they CAN have it" it clicked.

The method that worked in our home was " First and then" method it is what many schools do and they know what to expect. No is a forever term as if they will never get it or see it or have it.

I think all two year olds do that .even nt ones.seriously.my spectrum nine year old is going thru a phase like that but at two I would expect it.it won't be forever.Xo