Preferred Platform: Zoom

Zoom provides the host multiple controls especially suitable for larger groups and groups who are still creating a covenant of how to be together. Zoom is susceptible to entry by those not invited, although recent privacy upgrades are helping. Stay up to date on advice to keep out trolls. Specific youth guidance on zoom.

Less Ideal: Google Hangout, Facetime, Facebook Messenger Video, Houseparty

These platforms do not give a host control such as mute/unmute. They are suitable only for small groups that do have a covenantal understanding of appropriate behavior.

One benefit for small groups using these platforms is that they are not susceptible to the same kind of “zoom-bombing” zoom is.

These should not be used for one-on-one meetings between youth and adults which should be avoided.

Houseparty needs to be locked once attendees are in the party to limit the ability of participants to invite someone who should not be included.

Do Not Recommend: Discord

Discord provides a functionality similar to Teams or Slack. However, once a user has a username they are able to search public Discord servers. Many of these public servers are dangerous for youth. Therefore, there are parents who do not allow their youth to use Discord and Discord is neither a safe nor inclusive platform for youth events. Therefore UUA youth-specific programs will not be using Discord. We encourage parents and guardians to make their own decisions about Discord including the possibility of using Discord together as a family.