We have had a group for several years meeting in our birthing center that
continues to grow beyond our expectations.  The goal was to help new moms
understand normal newborn behaviors, so with that we named our group
"Baby Chat".  All moms are invited and we ususally have a wide variety of
experiences.  The last half of the group is devoted to breastfeeding
issues, questions etc. Moms love to talk about how breastfeeding is
the "best thing since sliced bread" as one mom put it.  It is interesting
in that lots of the formula feeding mom will stay and soak up all this
information and see normal breastfeeding babies.  I love to see the light
bulb go on.  Many have asked if it is too late for them to try, or that
they plan on breastfeeding with their next baby.  We have started to offer
the group at night and many, many dads are coming.  They are a hoot to
watch. Once they feel comfortable with the other "males" in the group, we
see the most wonderful loving interactions with their babies. We have had
many speakers attend our groups.  We have had topics on finacial planning (
now that that beautiful baby is here, working full-time doesn't always
sound appealing anymore), infant massage, nurturing and bonding with your
baby, infant and toddler nutrition.  We have had professional organizers
come to talk about baby proofing your home and safety in general.  Nurse
practitioner have talked about milestones and immunizations.  We had a day
where we made "home made" things like baby wipes, baby food etc.  We have
had child psychologists address sibling concerns.  We had a librarian talk
about reading to your children.  Can you tell I love this group???  We also
link moms with the toddler group in the area once the babies are 13 months
old.
Advertising was the key for us initially, now it is more by word of mouth.
It had been a great morale booster for the staff to.  Families come in and
see their nurses and love to show off their babies and thank nurses.  Baby
Chat has been a positive all the way around!!

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