Page 14 - 2019-2020 Leader Manual

Noticing Us Toolkit: Tips for Setting Up Space

Anchor spot

 Find a welcoming spot that becomes the area to
o Gather the group
o Re-collect the group
o Teach & share updates
o Debrief and do closure
 Test
o How easy it is for you to hear and see participants from this spot?
o How easy it is for participants to see and hear you from this spot?
 Choose a spot where you can see the door, but the participants cannot. (i.e., participants are
not distracted by latecomers).
 Separate the space visually. Use pylons or benches or dividers to help define the space
(especially when in a gym or large area).
 When possible, choose a starting space where participants can have their backs against a
wall (not in the centre of the room).;

Writing surface
 Create a space to write and post. This is helpful for new English learners, participants with
learning disabilities, anxious participants, inattentive participants, participants that don’t hear
well, etc.
 Write down key instructions and key sentence starters (e.g., “Friendship is important to me
because…” Use circles, squares, arrows to help explain (i.e., diagrams, graphic organizers,
etc.).

Poster
 Post the “Noticing Me” or social emotional theme for the day on the door.
 For some participants, a visual routine will be important. Include a “?” for unexpected events.

Leader Manual, Social Programs, Calgary Neighbourhoods page. 14