Using the Communications Chart

It is essential to use this person-centered thinking tool when someone does not communicate using words. It is also important to use it when someone’s communicates more clearly through their behavior than through words, or when what people say and what they mean are different. There are two types of communication charts which you should use together.

Use the relationship circle to decide who to involve – make sure that enough people are consulted to ensure that you get an accurate picture.
 
Remember that all behavior is meaningful and we can often learn what is important to and for someone from communications that might be seen as negative. The temptation can be to try and ‘fix’ behavior rather than listen to it.