Module 2: Foster social connections

This section focuses on helping participants form closer, authentic social connections with you and among each other. Keep in mind that not everyone is comfortable initiating social connections and so incorporating intentional strategies to help people connect may be helpful. In this module especially the size of the group you are working with will impact which strategies are feasible, so keep your context in mind when selecting strategies.

Getting started:

A transcript of the video can also be found in the below text.

Strategies to create a climate where social connections can develop among participants include:

Incorporating opportunities to socialize during exercise:

• Allow people to talk during exercise (or unmute when online) when it will not interfere with instruction or safety (e.g., during the cool down or rest periods).
• Structure activities so participants can see each other as that can facilitate interaction. For example, stretch in a circle, have the two halves of the room face the centre during certain movements, etc.
  • Online: consider times when you could use gallery view so participants can see one another and consider starting the call a few minutes early so participants can chat before the class begins.

Promoting collaboration and interaction:

• Refer to the group as a collective (e.g., “Alright team,” “Okay everybody,” “10am crew” “We are going to move to the next exercise”) to foster belonging.
• Integrate opportunities for people to work with the same person over time so they can build a relationship.

Adding on:

A transcript of the video can also be found in the below text.

This section includes direct, intentional approaches to foster closer connections. Social networks are built over time and have the potential to develop from repeated interactions between physical activity participants. It is important to be mindful of individual needs, comfort, and preferences. Not everyone is looking for or ready to build close social connections with other people in physical activity settings, and that needs to be respected. Avoid pressuring or singling out those who prefer less direct social interaction – they may be getting what they need socially just by being with other people, even if they are not developing close friendships. At the same time, some people would like to connect further and appreciate facilitative strategies that help them get past the initial challenge of forming closer connections. Follow participants’ lead on whether they are receptive to these more intentional efforts to support connection. If not, try another strategy, or focus on the “getting started” approaches in the previous section of this module if they are more aligned with the group’s preferences.

More intentional strategies include:

• Prepare questions to start conversations, or initiate discussions among participants that invite them to share about themselves and get to know others. Avoid potentially divisive conversations (e.g., politics) and focus on creating opportunities to share something about themselves of their choice, or to discuss a common interest. Some example prompts include sharing your favorite outdoor activity, something you are looking forward to this week, a new recipe or food you recently tried, etc.
• In group settings, be attentive to and respectful of who responds and who doesn’t. Inviting people to contribute if they have not had a chance can be helpful (e.g., for someone who feels uncomfortable jumping into the conversation but wants to participate). But respect if someone declines and learn who may not want to be put on the spot.
• Encourage participants with similar experiences or interests to connect and support each other.
• Some participants find it supportive when they share contact information with each other or connect outside of the activity (e.g., meeting for coffee). If appropriate and within the scope of your role and professional boundaries, encouraging those efforts and assisting in organizing or supporting social activities can be supportive.

Summary:

You can support participants by facilitating opportunities for organic social connections to evolve, and by connecting people through more purposeful actions, while respecting and being responsive to their needs, comfort, and preferences regarding social connection. Finding the right balance for the group you are working with requires communication and adapting to their needs.