- CalmConnect is a program best used without talking. CalmConnect can be done seated or standing.
- A user does not need to be moving to be engaged in CalmConnect. Our definition of participation within a group is this: As long a user is not engaged in a different activity than the rest of the group when doing CalmConnect, they are participating. It’s not about doing it correctly, or getting better, or learning a new skill.
- The less a leader (parent, teacher, therapist, group leader) interacts with the individual/ group using CalmConnect, the more effective CalmConnect is.
- Do it together when you can. CalmConnect is a shared activity that helps the whole family, team, group, or classroom to become calmer and connect with one other. Research shows that when a group of people perceives that they are engaged together in simultaneous shared physical movement, there are significant benefits leading to affiliation and collaboration.
- Use CalmConnect at the same time each day for the first few weeks. This will prepare users (and their nervous systems) to anticipate and welcome the calming sequences. CalmConnect works well as a transition tool or priming activity. Many people use CalmConnect in the morning, before a stressful activity, and before bedtime.
- One way to use CalmConnect wrong is to have users follow (imitate) a human leader instead of those on the screen. What sets CalmConnect apart is the consistency, reliability and safety of the people on the screen. They provide the same nonjudgmental, compassionate expressions day in and day out.
- You may notice some differences right away. Other changes may come after 4 to 6 weeks. After a month of use, reported changes include increased self-regulation, speech and language, and collaborative behavior, and decreased negative behavior.
- If someone is struggling with a specific movement or sequence, don’t assume that they want (or need) help. Allow the user to engage with CalmConnect in their own, authentic way. Someone doesn’t need to be doing the movements correctly, or even at all, in order to engage with the program.
- CalmConnect is not a competitive activity. CalmConnect is not a game where users compete against one another. The emphasis has nothing to do with imitating the moves correctly, although many people will see marked improvement over time. CalmConnect provides benefits to people of all ages and abilities, as it activates and supports a calm and attentive nervous system.