If you can’t find a parenting support group, why not start your own? When I first became a mother I searched high and low for a support group for new moms. I was surprised when I didn’t find one in my immediate area. There were stand-alone parenting seminars but I wasn’t able to find an ongoing support group. When one of the local hospitals added a new women’s center, I was certain they would offer a support group, but they didn’t. Then it dawned on me that maybe I would just see about starting my own. Then Katrina blew in and uprooted the entire city and I forgot all about parenting groups.
When I return to New Orleans in June, maybe I will pick up where I left off? But just how do you go about starting a support group, anyway? I did some research and here’s some tips I was able to find:
(1) Decide the best time of day to hold your meetings.
(2) Locate a convenient place to hold the meetings (you’ll need about two hours), such as at someone’s house, a library, community center, church, etc.
(3) Advertise your group and seek referrals from social workers, churches and community organizations. You can create and post fliers, contact your local radio and television stations or advertise in church bulletins.
(4) Keep the first meeting simple. Use it as a way to get acquainted with potential group members.
(a) At the first meeting you will also decide how long subsequent meetings will last, where they will be held and the length of time for each meeting.
(b) Don’t try to do everything yourself. Ask for volunteers to help you plan and run future meetings.
(c) Choose a name for your group.
(d) Discuss possible activities and speakers you would like to invite.
(e) Exchange telephone numbers.
(f) Decide if you will require any dues or if refreshments will be served.
As you can see, starting a support group is not difficult. It can be as simple as getting together with a small group of parents that share a common thread. In fact, you probably want to start small.
See also:
What You Have To Offer A Support Group
Let’s Talk About Pregnancy Support Groups
Religious Groups Offering More Support to Strengthen Marriage