Group Etiquette and Guidelines
A big part of creating a safe space is setting clear expectations. While we can’t predict exactly how every class will play out, there are a number of things we can do to make sure we create the best possible chance for a positive learning experience.
Here are some tips for what will help make this class successful on Zoom:
Make sure your internet connection is strong. Please make sure you are in a place with a strong internet connection. Straining to hear what someone is saying through broken bits puts stress and strain on our nervous systems. Think sitting on the edge of your seat for a whole hour - it’s tiring. We know the internet is not always predictable, but do your best to move somewhere you will have the best chance of a good connection.
Be on time - I know… many of you will have some trouble arriving on time, and it’s ok if you’re not perfect. That said, do your best to set alarms and leave wiggle room between the thing you plan to do before our class and the start time of our class so you can get the most out of this experience.
Just before logging on, please turn off ALL notifications and close/minimize all tabs. Cell phone, computer, and even physical distractions from the people around you (pets are the exception, they are always welcome distractions). But seriously, you will likely enjoy the course more and being distraction free will certainly contribute to a better flow in the course overall.
Consider turning your camera on and make sure your face has enough light. Seeing your face helps a lot with getting to know one another and creating safe interactions. So if you are open to leaving your camera on, please make sure there is enough light on your face so we can see it :) I also understand that it can be incredibly uncomfortable to meet anyone, let alone strangers, online, so I encourage you to choose what’s right for you.
Stay muted until you speak. A quiet background helps us all to process what is being said at any given time.
Raise your virtual hand to speak. When you do want to contribute, please raise your hand in Zoom. This makes things a lot smoother and we can make sure everyone gets a chance to contribute if they wish.
Keep everything confidential. It is normal to want to talk about your experiences in group and I encourage you to do that if you wish! Please just keep the content to the things you’ve learned about yourself and the tips that are most helpful to you. Confidentiality also includes not disclosing the identity of anyone in the group. It’s a small world ;)
Food is allowed and encouraged. Please feel free to bring snacks and drinks to the class and eat them on camera. Hunger and snakiness are a good sign that our bodies are feeling relaxed enough to eat. If you do, please remember to keep yourself on mute :) *Note: this is the opposite of what you might read for other virtual meetings so keep in mind this one is highly contextual and specific to this ADHD group.
Message me (Jessica) privately if you have a challenge during class. I am here to support you as much as possible and will do my best to respond to you as soon as I am able.
Be mindful of considerate communication for a group setting.
Do your best to:
Know the purpose for your communication
Speak about one topic at a time
Be mindful of the time
Be honest (It’s not required, but if you decide to disclose something about yourself, please keep it truthful)
Say what you feel using “I” statements
Ask for what you want or need or if you need clarification
Take responsibility for your feelings and actions
Take turns
Try not to:
Interrupt others
Speak when you have hot feelings
Yell, swear, criticize, name call, intimidate others (I doubt this will be an issue, but good to name anyway)
Offer advice to others
❤️ Thank you to Jenna Chevalier who created wonderful group guidelines that I’ve added to and adapted for our group.