What is Chats?
Chats is a messaging tool built into Dojo Tutor that lets you and families communicate between sessions. It replaces Notes, which wasn't designed for back-and-forth conversation.
When Chats turns on, you'll have a separate thread for each family you work with. Families can send you a message, and you can reply when you're available. There's no expectation of immediate responses; you set the cadence that works for you.
When does Chats turn on?
Chats turns on automatically when you have your first trial, subscription, or group class section. You don't need to set anything up.
What happened to my Notes?
Your Notes history migrated automatically when Chats launched. All previous messages and attachments are now in Chats — nothing was deleted. You'll find everything in the same place you'd go to send a message to a family.
If you're having trouble finding a specific thread or attachment, contact support and we'll take a look.
Setting your response cadence
There's no expectation of 24/7 availability. Chats is a professional communication tool, and a simple note at the start of a new conversation goes a long way:
"I typically reply within 24 hours on weekdays. For anything time-sensitive, feel free to follow up."
Most families respect a clear window. Setting expectations early reduces pressure on both sides.
If you teach group classes
Group class Chats work on two levels:
- Announcements channel: You can post messages to all families in a section at once. Families can see each other in this thread, but they can't reply to the whole group — only you can post announcements.
- Individual threads: You also have a private thread with each family for one-on-one conversations.
It's worth noting in your announcements that families should message you directly for any follow-up questions.
Managing your messages
Muting a conversation
If a thread is generating notifications you don't need right now, you can mute it. Go to [the conversation > options menu > Mute].
Blocking a family
If a family sends messages that are inappropriate or unwanted, you can block them directly from the thread. Go to [the conversation > options menu > Block]. Blocking stops that family from sending you further messages.
Reporting a family
If a family sends messages that violate Dojo Tutor's guidelines, you can report them from the same menu. Go to [the conversation > options menu > Report]. Our team will review the report. If you need to escalate something urgently, contact support directly.
Substitute tutors and Chats
When a substitute covers one of your sessions, a separate Chat thread is created automatically between the substitute and that family for that session. Your own thread with the family is not affected. The thread includes a message explaining the substitution, so both sides know what to expect.
What Chats can't do
Chats is a messaging tool, not a scheduling tool. You and a family can discuss and agree on a reschedule or change inside a Chat, but you'll need to action that change through your dashboard separately. If you need help with the scheduling side, contact support.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to use Chats?
Chats turns on automatically when you have an active trial, subscription, or group class. There isn't a way to turn it off entirely, but you can mute individual conversations and set clear response expectations so families know what to expect from you.
Can I stop a specific family from messaging me?
Yes. You can block any family directly from their Chat thread. This stops them from sending you further messages. If you're dealing with something more serious, use the Report option and contact support if needed.
Can families message each other in a group class?
No. Families in a group class can see each other in the announcements thread, but they can't message each other directly. Only you can post to the announcements channel.
What if a family expects me to respond immediately?
You're not required to. Setting a response window at the start of a new thread — something like "I reply within 24 hours on weekdays" — sets the right expectation from the start. Most families respect a clear, upfront note.
Can I reschedule a session through Chats?
You can discuss and agree on changes through Chats, but to actually make a booking change, you'll need to do that through your dashboard. Chats doesn't connect to your schedule directly.
What if I'm getting too many notifications?
You can mute individual threads in [Settings > Notifications]. If you'd like more control over notification timing, let us know — we're always looking at ways to give tutors more flexibility.
I can't find my old Notes. What do I do?
Your Notes migrated automatically to Chats. If something is missing, contact support with your account details and what you're looking for, and we'll investigate.