Hi, All: Tap into the mothers themselves for topic ideas. The moms in my
group have current or former careers in dental hygiene, the therapies,
psychology, etc. The dental hygiene mom has come during National Dental
Health month (February) and shown the other mothers how to care for their
babies' teeth, gums and tongue and brought each mom a bag of goodies -
baby toothbrush, floss, etc. Another mom who is an OT discussed normal
growth and development, and using her own and other babies present,
demonstrated reflexes, etc. The moms were fascinated with what their even
very young babies are capable of doing. And they really listen to each other!
They've given each other advice on home decorating, buying/selling a house,
buying a new car, and just about any topic under the sun. We also do parties
several times a year. Don't necessarily have to have a reason, but we do an
annual picnic in the summer out by the original farm buildings the hospital has
left standing on their 600 acre campus, most of which is left in its natural
state. We also have a Halloween party with babies and some brave moms in
costume and a Christmas party, during which Santa makes an appearance.
The moms love the opportunity to get a picture of their baby on Santa's lap.
The only thing I don't do during the group time is consults. I also don't bring a
scale down to the group. I emphasize that support group time is the moms'
time to socialize and network with each other. If I see a mom is having
difficulties, I will ask her to stay after group if she can, or I have occasionally
pulled her off to the side for a quick consult. I have run support groups for
over 20 years. It is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job, to see
these breastfed babies (and mothers) thriving and growing in confidence and
self-esteem.
Pam Hirsch, BSN,RN,IBCLC
Clinical Lead, Lactation Services
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
Barrington, IL USA
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