Pet Parade

How to Play

Setup

1. Schedule 15–30 minutes depending on group size (plan ~1 minute per person plus transitions).
2. Assign a facilitator/timekeeper and prepare a visible timer (shared screen timer or countdown bot). Decide the speaking order (alphabetical, random spinner, or volunteer first).
3. Share prompts in advance so participants can prep: pet/plant name, species/type, personality quirks, and how they impact work-from-home life. Encourage a quick story or fun fact.
4. Set expectations for those without pets: they can show a favorite plant, stuffed animal, a photo/video of an animal they love, or describe a dream pet.
5. Ask participants to have a backup photo ready in case a pet is camera-shy. Remind everyone to mute when not speaking.
6. Optionally create a shared document or slide deck titled “Team Pet Parade Album” with a simple template (photo, name, guardian, quirks, caption) for post-session smiles.
7. For groups over 12, prepare breakout rooms of 6–8 to keep pace; bring the whole group back for quick awards.

How to Play

1. Welcome the group, state the goal (warmth, connection, humor), and demo with a 30–60 second example.
2. Start the parade. One at a time, spotlight the speaker. Each person has up to 60 seconds to:
   • Show their pet on camera (or share a photo if the pet won’t cooperate).
   • State the pet’s name and type.
   • Share 1–2 quirks or a quick story.
   • Explain how this companion affects their WFH life (focus, breaks, morale).
3. Allow 10–15 seconds for quick reactions in chat or emoji only to stay on schedule.
4. Keep the timer visible; give a friendly wrap-up cue at 55 seconds. Move briskly to the next person.
5. After everyone shares, run a lighthearted vote via chat or poll for fun, non-competitive shout-outs (e.g., “Sleepiest Co‑Worker,” “Best Cameo,” “Most Camera‑Shy,” “Top Plant Parent”).
6. Close by sharing the link to the Team Pet Parade Album and invite everyone to add one photo and a caption within 24 hours.

Rules

1. Be kind and inclusive; no judgment about breeds, care choices, or living situations.
2. Safety first: do not force or chase animals on camera; no feeding or risky handling during the call.
3. Time discipline: stick to 60 seconds (30–45 seconds in large groups). Facilitator may gently cut off to keep momentum.
4. Privacy: blur backgrounds if desired; ask permission before taking screenshots or recording. Only upload photos you’re comfortable sharing.
5. Accessibility: participants may keep cameras off and describe a photo or object instead.
6. Noise control: mute when not speaking; use headphones to avoid startling pets.

Tips

• Start with a high-energy or humorous example to set the tone.
• Encourage backup photos or short clips for reluctant pets.
• Use gallery view and spotlight the speaker to keep focus.
• Prepare a few award categories in advance to speed up voting.
• Consider gentle background music during transitions at low volume.
• Follow up with the compiled album and a highlight reel of quotes.

Variations

• Lightning Parade: 30 seconds per person for very large teams; run in breakout rooms and share highlights in the main room.
• Guess the Name: Show the pet first; teammates guess the name or a quirk before the reveal.
• Theme Day: Aquatic friends, tiny companions, rescue stories, or plant pride.
• Pet-Free Edition: Share a comforting object, favorite wildlife photo, or dream pet storyboard.
• Hybrid/In-Person: Bring printed photos or show on phone; project a live collage on screen.