Getting Patients Connected Outside of Group - Ideas

Hi, thanks for that question. I also find it so important to facilitate the groups lasting connections. One thing I like to do is to get the contact list going right at the beginning, offering it at each session check-in to make sure that everyone gets on the list. I offer options for email and text. I leave it up to them to create a Facebook group themselves. I talk about it throughout the group sessions, reminding parents that they are creating a support network by attending Centering. It plants the idea that they will be staying connected, and that it is a resource they should start using now. I will often say that if they are going to miss a session or have a question about something we discussed they can reach out to one of their peers to see about getting info as an alternative to calling the clinic. (Of course medical questions are always appropriate to ask the provider.) When you feel that everyone had added their info and the group is starting to gel, a few sessions in, I start reminding patients that they should take a photo of the contact sheet with their smart phone. (Or make a copy of the paper if that isn't available to them).

One thing I heard from another Centering Site is that they pair patients up in a buddy system. This is a way to create bonds, keep the individuals accountable to the group, and to getting support from their peer(s). Have them exchange contact info right at the first session. They can text their "buddy" to let the group know if they are running late, or miss a session to get updated on content.

I will periodically send a few emails out to the group myself, from the contact list. I include links to online resources relevant to the upcoming discussion. I have also asked someone to volunteer to start a group email, to get a group discussion going. Hope those ideas help. Did that give you some ideas to try?