Group Helps New Parents Connect

Meaghan Shields was just like any new parent during her pregnancy — excited, anxious and scared.

Sweeney (second adult from left) with parent volunteers who participate in weekly phone calls with first-time parents.

In addition to dealing with the pressures of becoming a new mom, Shields also faced the challenges of being a gay parent, including societal views on gays and lesbians, same-sex relationships and parenting. Luckily she found a support group designed specifically for gay and lesbian parents sponsored by the Parent Connection at BIDMC.

The Parent Connection is a network of experienced parents, carefully selected and trained by BIDMC staff to serve as resources for new parents. Shields’ group, co-sponsored with the Jewish Family and Children’s Service, is just one program for new parents.
“Becoming a parent for the first time is typically an incredible and overwhelming adjustment,” says Christine Sweeney, LICSW, director of the Parent Connection. “We support parents in finding what works for them and their babies.”

In addition to offering town-based support groups, the Parent Connection arranges weekly phone calls between first-time parents who have delivered at BIDMC and an experienced volunteer parent.

“I liked having someone who was not a family member or friend to talk to and ask questions,” says Nicole Pirani, a mother who received the help from the Parent Connection and now volunteers.

For more information about the Parent Connection, contact Sweeney at (66)7-BABY (667-2229.)

— Kathleen Cosgrove