Facilitators of Change

Nutrition/Behavior Counseling

Tennessee Department of Health

Nutrition Services

2003

This manual was written as part of a Fiscal Year 2000 WIC Special
Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and
Nutrition Service. This grant supports the Food and Nutrition Service's
Revitalizing Quality Nutrition Services (RQNS) in the WIC program
initiative

This project has been funded at least in part with Federal funds from
the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, under
Grant number WISP-0047-1. The contents of this publication do not
necessarily reflect the view or policies of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or
organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

**Facilitators of Change**

**Agenda**

**Wednesday, January 8, 2003**

1:00. Opening Remarks/Introductions Jeanece Seals, MS, RD

Nutrition Services Section Chief

Tennessee Department of Health

1:15 -- 3:00 Stages of Change Mary Lou J. Kiel, RD, PhD

Pennsylvania State University

3:00 -- 3:15 Break

3:15 -- 4:00 Stages of Change in Nutrition Mary Lou J. Kiel, RD, PhD

> Counseling

4:00 Adjourn

# Thursday, January 9, 2003 

8:30 -- 10:00 Facilitating Nutrition Education Jane Peacock, MS, RD,
Section Chief

> Jeanne Gallegos, MS, WIC Program Dir.
>
> New Mexico Department of Health, Family,

Food and Nutrition

10:00 -- 10:15 Break

10:15 --11:30 Facilitating Nutrition Education Jane Peacock, MS, RD

Jeanne Gallegos, MS

11:30 -- 12:30 Lunch Wendy Long, MD, MPH

12:30 -- 2:30 Facilitating Group Discussions Jane Peacock, MS, RD

Jeanne Gallegos, MS

2:30 -- 2:45 Break

2:45 -- 4:00 Facilitating Group Discussions Jane Peacock, MS, RD

Jeanne Gallegos, MS

4:00 Adjourn

# Friday, January 10, 2003

8:30 -- 10:00 Facilitating Stages of Change Marsha Davis, PhD Associate
Clinical Professor

Human and Organizational

Development, Vanderbilt University

10:00 --10:15 Break

10:15 -- 11:30 Readiness for Action Peggy Lewis, MHE, RD

WIC/ CSFP/ FMNP Director

Tennessee Department of Health

11:30 Adjourn

Who are Facilitators of Change?

**Welcome to the** **Facilitators of Change Workshop!** You, the WIC
nutrition staff, will have an opportunity to facilitate stages of change
in nutrition counseling -- thus becoming Facilitators of Change. This
workshop has been developed by the Tennessee Department of Health,
Nutrition Services, Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutrition
Program (WIC) and is based on previous successful programs and workbooks
produced by the WIC Programs of New Mexico and Kentucky. (See
acknowledgements in Appendix.) Designed for nutritionists and nutrition
educators, this workbook can be used by all CPA's (Competent
Professional Authority's) to help clients change unhealthy eating
habits.

The stages of change model developed by Prochaska and DiClemente provide
the theoretical framework for helping clients improve their dietary
behaviors. The basic premise is that behavior change is a process and
not an event, and that individuals are at varying level of readiness to
change. You will learn to interpret the five stages (precontemplation,
contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance) that are essential
to long-lasting behavior change. This model for change can allow you to
help clients move through the stages of change and adopt more healthful
diets within a supportive environment.

As nutrition professionals, we strive to promote healthy eating and
physical activity behaviors among the populations we serve. An
understanding of behavior change theory allows us to better understand
the many factors influencing health-related behaviors as well as the
most effective ways of promoting change. The bottom line is that
programs, interventions, and messages that are guided by behavior change
theory have a much greater chance of achieving positive behavior change.

You will also have the opportunity to learn to focus most of your
efforts on developing facilitative counseling methods that target client
needs. Passive forms of learning, such as lectures, have been shown to
be ineffective in producing behavior changes. You will find that
facilitative counseling offers an easy and practical way to help clients
develop their own solutions to their nutrition challenges.

**Facilitators of Change**

**Course Goal and Objectives**

**Goal:**

> Introduce a more client-oriented, behavioral approach to nutrition
> counseling, train nutrition staff to act as facilitators of change.

**Objectives:**

> That by the end of this workshop, 90% of attendees will be able to
> list the five stages of change and match at least one counseling
> technique for each.
>
> That by the end of this workshop, 90% of attendees will be able to
> discuss barriers to change with clients.
>
> That by the end of this workshop, 90% of attendees will be able to
> facilitate nutrition counseling.
>
> That by the end of this workshop, 90% of attendees will intend to use
> these techniques in their clinics in individual and group counseling.

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| **STAGES OF CHANGE**                                         | **p   |
|                                                              | age** |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Guidelines, Concepts, and                                    | # 8   |
| Techniques..................................                 |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Questions & Algorithm to Assign Stages of                    | 10    |
| Change..................                                     |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| State of                                                     | 11    |
| Readine                                                      |       |
| ss.......................................................... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Folic Acid Stages of                                         | 12    |
| Change..............................................         |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Stages of Change                                             | 13    |
| References.............................................      |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
|                                                              |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| **FACILITATING WIC DISCUSSION GROUPS**                       |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Guidelines, Concepts, and                                    | 15    |
| Techniques..................................                 |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Scheduling Nutrition Education                               | 22    |
| Contacts...............................                      |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Icebreaker                                                   | 23    |
| Exerc                                                        |       |
| ises........................................................ |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Sample Icebreakers and                                       | 24    |
| Openers.........................................             |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Documentation..                                              | 28    |
| ............................................................ |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Goal                                                         | 29    |
| Setting.......                                               |       |
| ........................................................\... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Sample Session Outline to                                    | 31    |
| Customize...................................                 |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Sample Discussion Session Outline to                         | 32    |
| Customize.....................                               |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Group Evaluation                                             | 33    |
| Form....................................................     |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
|                                                              |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| **PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSIONS**                             |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-1: Prenatal Nutrition Needs and the Importance of          | 35    |
|                                                              |       |
| Weight Gain -- Discussion                                    |       |
| session..................................                    |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-1: Prenatal Nutrition Needs and the Importance of          | 37    |
|                                                              |       |
| Weight Gain -- Session                                       |       |
| outline....................................\...              |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-1: Prenatal Nutrition Needs and the Importance of          | 40    |
|                                                              |       |
| Weight Gain -- Study                                         |       |
| Guide.......................................\...             |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-2: Individual Consultation -- Discussion                   | 45    |
| session..................\...                                |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-2: Individual Consultation -- Session                      | 46    |
| outline.........................                             |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-3: How Will You Feed Your Little One? -- Discussion        | 50    |
|                                                              |       |
| Session.......                                               |       |
| ........................................................\... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  P-3: H                                                    | 51    |
| ow Will You Feed Your Little One? -- Session outline........ |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-3: How Will You Feed Your Little One? -- Study             | # 56  |
| guide.........\...                                           |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-4: Keeping Your Baby Safe Before It Is Born -- Discussion  | 66    |
|                                                              |       |
| Session.......                                               |       |
| ........................................................\... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-4: Keeping Your Baby Safe Before It Is Born -- Session     | 67    |
|                                                              |       |
| Outline..                                                    |       |
| ....                                                         |       |
| ........................................................\... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| P-4: Keeping Your Baby Safe Before It Is Born -- Study       | 72    |
| Guide.....                                                   |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| **BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSIONS**                        | **p   |
|                                                              | age** |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| B-1: Am I Ready to Breastfeed? Discussion                    | 75    |
| Session...............\...                                   |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| B-1: Am I Ready to Breastfeed? Session                       | 76    |
| Outline....................\...                              |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| B-2: Successful Breastfeeding Discussion                     | 79    |
| Session.....................                                 |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| B-2: Successful Breastfeeding Session                        | 81    |
| Outline.........................                             |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
|                                                              |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| ## POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSIONS                            |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| PP-1 Taking Care of Yourself, After the Baby Discussion      | 89    |
| Session.                                                     |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| PP-1 Taking Care of Yourself, After the Baby Session         | 90    |
| Outline...\...                                               |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| PP-1 Taking Care of Yourself, After the Baby Study           | 93    |
| Guide......\....                                             |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| PP-2 Postpartum Nutrition Needs and the Importance of Folic  | 97    |
|                                                              |       |
| Acid Discussion                                              |       |
| Session............................................          |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| PP-2 Postpartum Nutrition Needs and the Importance of Folic  | 98    |
|                                                              |       |
| Acid Session                                                 |       |
| Outline.................................................     |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| PP-2 Postpartum Nutrition Needs and the Importance of Folic  | 101   |
|                                                              |       |
| Acid Study                                                   |       |
| Guide......\...............................................  |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| ## INFANT DISCUSSION SESSIONS                                |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| I-1 Talking About Your Baby Discussion                       | 104   |
| Session..................\...                                |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| I-1 Talking About Your Baby Session                          | 105   |
| Outline.......................\...                           |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| I-1 Talking About Your Baby Specific Infant Discussion       | 107   |
| Topics...                                                    |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
|                                                              |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| **CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSIONS**                            |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-1 Fe                                                    | 116   |
| eling Good by Eating Right Discussion Session............... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-1 Fee                                                   | 118   |
| ling Good by Eating Right Session Outline................... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-2 Dev                                                   | 124   |
| elopmental Stages Discussion Session........................ |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-2 Devel                                                 | 125   |
| opmental Stages Session Outline............................. |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-3 Tooth or Consequences -- A Healthy Mouth Discussion   | 128   |
|                                                              |       |
| #  Session......                                             |       |
| ............................................................ |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-3 T                                                     | 129   |
| ooth or Consequences -- A Healthy Mouth Session Outline \... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| #  C-3                                                       | 132   |
|  Tooth or Consequences -- A Healthy Mouth Study Guide....... |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| ## APPENDICES                                                |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Acknowledgements                                             | 135   |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Overview                                                     | 136   |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| Nutrition Education and Outreach Materials available from    | 138   |
|                                                              |       |
| the Tennessee Department of Health                           |       |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+-------+

**STAGES OF CHANGE**

# GUIDELINES, CONCEPTS AND TECHNIQUES

"The stages of Change Model was developed by Prochaska and DiClemente
and evolved from work with smoking cessation and the treatment of drug
and alcohol addiction and has recently been applied to a variety of
other health behaviors. The basic premise is that behavior change is a
process and not an event, and that individuals are at varying levels of
readiness to change." (1)

"The health education literature suggests that "one size fits all"
programs fail to motivate large segments of the population who are at
different stages of change. Thus, interventions should be tailored to
the needs and concerns of individuals at each stage of the change
process." (1,2)

According to the Stages of Change approach, individuals can be
categorized according to their readiness to change. It is important to
note that this is a circular, not a linear model, and people can enter
and exit at any point. For instance, individuals may progress to action
but then relapse and go through some of the stages several times before
achieving maintenance. (2) The stages include:

-   Pre-contemplation -- no intention of taking action in the
    foreseeable future, usually measured in next 6 months.

-   Contemplation -- thinking about changing, usually within 6 months

-   Preparation --intends to take action within the next month -- have a
    plan of action

-   Action -- has made changes within the past 6 months

-   Maintenance -- has maintained new behavior for at least 6 months and
    is working to prevent relapse.

Behavior change strategies will likely be more effective when they are
designed to match an individual's stage in the change process. Example:
If an individual has a low fruit and vegetable intake, there is no point
in providing detailed information and recipes. It would be more
appropriate to focus the nutrition message on increasing the
individual's awareness of the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables
before suggesting action-oriented strategies.

Stages of Change is an approach which can be used to assist WIC
participants in changing behaviors associated with nutrition issues.
What is unique about this

approach is that counselors engage in a dialogue with participants to
move participants from the stage they are in to the next stage. Data
indicate that the five stages are indeed quite distinct in behavioral
habits and attitudes and thus analysis of their unique characteristics
are vital (3).

The dialogue, at first, can be a set of questions and algorithms (see
example in this section) which is used to assess the stage of readiness
to change. As the counselor becomes more proficient, the stage is easier
to identify. Strategies can be developed for helping participants move
to the next level (See example in this section). Examples of counseling
can even be developed for specific nutrition topics (See example, folic
acid).

Nutrition professionals strive to promote healthy eating and physical
activity behaviors. An understanding of behavior change theory helps to
better understand the many factors influencing health-related behaviors
and the most effective ways of promoting change. The bottom line is that
programs, interventions, and messages that are guided by behavior change
theory have a much greater chance of achieving positive behavior change.

1.  Glanz K, Rimer BK. Theory at a Glance: A Guide for Health Promotion
    Practice. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
    Health Service, National Institutes of Health; July 1996.

2.  Owen AL, Splett PL, Owen GM. Nutrition in the Community: The Art and
    Science of Delivering Services, Boston, MA: WCB/McGraw-Hill; 1999.

3.  McDonell G, Roberts D, Lee C. Stages of Change and Reduction of
    Dietary Fat: Effect of Knowledge and Attitudes in an Australian
    University Population. Society for Nutrition Education: 1998, 37-44.

S-2

**QUESTIONS AND ALGORITHM USED TO ASSIGN STAGES OF CHANGE FOR A LOW-FAT
DIET**

1.  **How high is your overall diet in fat? Is it...**

Low

Very low

In the middle

High

Very high

Don't know

2.  **In the past 6 months, have you tried to eat less fat?**

YES

NO

3.  **Are you seriously thinking about eating less fat over the next 6
    months?**

YES

4.  **Do you plan to continue trying to eat less fat over the next 6
    months?**

YES

5.  **How confident are you that you can change your diet to eat less
    fat? Would you say...**

Very confident OR

Not very confident OR

Don't Know

Kristal A, Glanz K, Curry S, Patterson R. How can stages of change be
best used in dietary interventions? *J Am Diet Assoc. 1999; 99:
679-678*.

+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+
| # State of | **Key      | **Counseling do's   | **Counseling       |
|  readiness | strategies | at this stage**     | don'ts at this     |
|            | for moving |                     | stage**            |
|            | to next    |                     |                    |
|            | stage**    |                     |                    |
+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+
| Precon     | Increased  | -   Provide         | Don't assume       |
| templation | i          |     personalized    | client has         |
|            | nformation |     information     | knowledge or       |
|            | and        |                     | expect that        |
|            | awareness, | -   Allow client to | providing          |
|            | emotional  |     express         | information will   |
|            | acceptance |     emotions about  | automatically lead |
|            |            |     his or her      | to behavior        |
|            |            |     disease or      | change.            |
|            |            |     about the need  |                    |
|            |            |     to make dietary | Don't ignore       |
|            |            |     changes         | client's emotional |
|            |            |                     | adjustment to the  |
|            |            |                     | need for dietary   |
|            |            |                     | change, which      |
|            |            |                     | could override     |
|            |            |                     | ability to process |
|            |            |                     | relevant           |
|            |            |                     | information.       |
+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+
| Con        | Increased  | -   Discuss and     | Don't ignore the   |
| templation | confidence |     resolve         | potential impact   |
|            | in one's   |     barriers to     | of family members  |
|            | ability to |     dietary change. | and others on      |
|            | adopt      |                     | client's ability   |
|            | r          | -   Encourage       | to comply.         |
|            | ecommended |     support         |                    |
|            | behaviors  |     networks.       | Don't be alarmed   |
|            |            |                     | or critical of a   |
|            |            | -   Give positive   | client's           |
|            |            |     feedback about  | ambivalence.       |
|            |            |     a client's      |                    |
|            |            |     abilities.      |                    |
|            |            |                     |                    |
|            |            | ```{=html}          |                    |
|            |            | <!-- -->            |                    |
|            |            | ```                 |                    |
|            |            | -   Help to clarify |                    |
|            |            |     ambivalence     |                    |
|            |            |     about adopting  |                    |
|            |            |     behavior and    |                    |
|            |            |     emphasize       |                    |
|            |            |     expected        |                    |
|            |            |     benefits.       |                    |
+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+
| P          | Resolution | -   Encourage       | Don't recommend    |
| reparation | of         |     client to set   | general behavior   |
|            | am         |     specific,       | changes (Eat less  |
|            | bivalence, |     achievable      | fat.)              |
|            | firm       |     goals.          |                    |
|            | c          |                     | Don't refer to     |
|            | ommitment, | ```{=html}          | small changes as   |
|            | and        | <!-- -->            | "not good enough." |
|            | specific   | ```                 |                    |
|            | action     | -   Reinforce small |                    |
|            | plan       |     changes that    |                    |
|            |            |     client may have |                    |
|            |            |     already         |                    |
|            |            |     achieved.       |                    |
+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+
| Action     | Behavioral | -   Refer to        | Don't refer        |
|            | skill      |     education       | clients to         |
|            | training   |     program for     | information-only   |
|            | and social |     self-management | classes.           |
|            | support    |     skills.         |                    |
|            |            |                     |                    |
|            |            | ```{=html}          |                    |
|            |            | <!-- -->            |                    |
|            |            | ```                 |                    |
|            |            | -   Provide         |                    |
|            |            |     self-help       |                    |
|            |            |     materials       |                    |
+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+
| M          | Probl      | -   Encourage       | Don't assume that  |
| aintenance | em-solving |     client to       | initial action     |
|            | skills and |     anticipate and  | means permanent    |
|            | social and |     plan for        | change.            |
|            | env        |     potential       |                    |
|            | ironmental |     difficulties.   | Don't be           |
|            | support    |                     | discouraged or     |
|            |            | -   Collect         | judgmental about a |
|            |            |     information     | lapse or relapse.  |
|            |            |     about local     |                    |
|            |            |     resources.      |                    |
|            |            |                     |                    |
|            |            | -   Encourage       |                    |
|            |            |     client to       |                    |
|            |            |     "recycle" if he |                    |
|            |            |     or she has a    |                    |
|            |            |     lapse or        |                    |
|            |            |     relapse.        |                    |
|            |            |                     |                    |
|            |            | ```{=html}          |                    |
|            |            | <!-- -->            |                    |
|            |            | ```                 |                    |
|            |            | -   Recommend more  |                    |
|            |            |     dietary changes |                    |
|            |            |     of client is    |                    |
|            |            |     motivated.      |                    |
+------------+------------+---------------------+--------------------+

Story M, Holt K, Sofka, D. Bright Futures in Practice: Nutrition, US
Dept of Health and Human Services. 2002;257.

Folic Acid

Stages of Change

+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+
| **Stage**    | **C              | **Strategies** | **Folic Acid     |
|              | haracteristics** |                | Counseling**     |
+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+
| Pre-c        | -                | -   Provide    | -   Discuss      |
| ontemplation | Unable/unwilling |     n          |     benefits of  |
|              |     to change    | on-threatening |     folic acid   |
|              |                  |                |                  |
|              | -   Not          |    information | -   Distribute   |
|              |     interested   |                |     educational  |
|              |     in changing  | -   Raise      |     materials,   |
|              |                  |     awareness  |     including    |
|              | -   Denial       |                |     brochures    |
+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+
| C            | -   Ambivalent   | -   Translate  | -   Give recipes |
| ontemplation |     about change |     thinking   |     for foods    |
|              |                  |     into doing |     high in      |
|              | -   Substitute   |                |     folate       |
|              |     thinking for | -   Give       |                  |
|              |     action       |                | -   Distribute   |
|              |                  |    alternative |     \"Advantages |
|              |                  |     choices    |     and          |
|              |                  |                |                  |
|              |                  |                |    Disadvantages |
|              |                  |                |     of Folic     |
|              |                  |                |     Acid\" chart |
+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+
| Preparation  | -   Show need    | -   Small      | -   Encourage to |
|              |     and desire   |     steps for  |     buy          |
|              |     for          |     change     |                  |
|              |     assistance   |                |   multivitamins, |
|              |     to change    | -   Focus on   |     supplements, |
|              |                  |                |     and foods    |
|              | -   Don\'t know  |  interventions |     high in      |
|              |     how to       |                |     folate       |
|              |     change       | -   Find out   |                  |
|              |                  |     what works | -   Give out     |
|              |                  |     for them   |     samples of   |
|              |                  |                |                  |
|              |                  |                |    multivitamins |
|              |                  |                |     or           |
|              |                  |                |     supplements  |
|              |                  |                |     if available |
|              |                  |                |                  |
|              |                  |                | -   Refer to WIC |
|              |                  |                |     or Food      |
|              |                  |                |     Stamps       |
|              |                  |                |                  |
|              |                  |                | -   Refer to     |
|              |                  |                |     prenatal     |
|              |                  |                |     care to      |
|              |                  |                |     obtain       |
|              |                  |                |     prenatal     |
|              |                  |                |     vitamins     |
+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+
| Action       | -   Experiencing | -   Reinforce  | -   Praise and   |
|              |     success in   |     successes  |     encourage    |
|              |     change       |     with       |     the small    |
|              |                  |     change     |     successes    |
|              | -   Relapse is   |                |     (i.e.        |
|              |     common       | -   Build      |     purchasing   |
|              |                  |     confidence |     vitamins,    |
|              |                  |                |     consuming    |
|              |                  |                |     more fruits  |
|              |                  |                |     and          |
|              |                  |                |     vegetables,  |
|              |                  |                |     going to     |
|              |                  |                |     prenatal     |
|              |                  |                |     visits)      |
+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+
| Maintenance  | -   Low risk for | -   Encourage  | -   Include      |
|              |     relapse      |     continued  |     folic acid   |
|              |                  |     behavior   |     message on   |
|              | -   Temptation   |     change     |     annual exam  |
|              |     low          |                |     reminder     |
|              |                  | -   Build upon |     postcards    |
|              |                  |     successes  |                  |
|              |                  |     they have  |                  |
|              |                  |                |                  |
|              |                  |    experienced |                  |
+--------------+------------------+----------------+------------------+

Source: www.folicacid.net

**Stages of Change References**

1.  Greene G, Rossi S, Rossi J, Velicer W, Fava J, Prochaska J. Dietary
    applications of the Stages of Change Model. J Am Diet Assoc: 1999,
    673-677.

2.  Horachek T, White A, Betts N, Hoerr S, Georgiou C, Nitzke S, Ma J,
    Greene G. Self-efficacy, perceived benefits, and weight satisfaction
    discriminate among stages of change for fruit and vegetable intakes
    for young men and women. J Am Diet Assoc: 2002, 1466-1470.

3.  Shannon, Christine, MPH,RD. "Promoting Behavior Change: Behavior
    Change Models for Motivating People to Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle,"
    The Digest, Public Health Community Nutrition Practice Group,
    Winter, 2002.

4.  Owen AL, Splett PL, Owen GM. Nutrition in the Community: The Art and
    Science of Delivering Services, Boston, MA: WCB/McGraw-Hill; 1999.

5.  Glanz K, Rimer BK. Theory at a Glance: A Guide for Health Promotion
    Practice. U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
    Service, National Institutes of Health; July 1996.

6.  Boyle MA, Morris DH, Community Nutrition in Action, Minneapolis/St.
    Paul, MN: West Publishing Company; 1994.

7.  Perry CL, Bishop DB, Taylor G, Murray DM, Mays RW, Dudovitz BS,
    Smyth M, Story M. Changing fruit and vegetable consumption among
    children: The 5-a-Day Power Plus Program in St. Paul, Minnesota. Am
    J Public Health. 1998; 88(4):603-609.

8.  Samuels SE. Project LEAN -- Lessons learned from a national social
    marketing campaign. Public Health Reports. 1993; 108(1):45-53.

9.  McDonell G, Roberts D, Lee C. Stages of Change and Reduction of
    Dietary Fat: Effect of Knowledge and Attitudes in an Australian
    University Population. Society for Nutrition Education: 1998, 37-44.

10. Kristal A, Glanz K, Curry S, Patterson R. How can stages of change
    be best used in dietary interventions? *J Am Diet Assoc. 1999; 99:
    679-678*.

11. Hargreaves M, Schlundt D, Buchowski M, Hardy R, Rossi S, Rossi J.
    Stage of change and the intake of dietary fat in African-American
    women: Improving stage assignment using the Eating Styles
    Questionnaire. J Am Diet Assoc.1999;99:1392-1399.

12. Rosal M, Ebbeling C, Lofgren I, Ockene J, Ockene I, Hebert J.
    Facilitating dietary change: The patient-centered counseling model.
    *J Am Diet Assoc.* 2001;101:332-338,341.

13. Greene G, Rossi S. Stages of change for reducing dietary fat intake
    over 18 months *J Am Diet Assoc.* 1998;98:529-534.

14. Tucker m, Reicks M. Exercise as a Gateway Behavior for Healthful
    Eating among Older Adults: An Exploratory Study. Journal of
    Nutrition Education and Behavior;34:S14-19.

**FACILITATING WIC DISCUSSION GROUPS**

# GUIDELINES, CONCEPTS AND TECHNIQUES

Providing discussion sessions for WIC participants is an attempt to
provide them with a more meaningful nutrition education experience that
involves interactive learning. As the certifying professional, you will
be the facilitator and moderate a group conversation-style discussion.

The WIC participants take on an active role in this learning process by
letting you know what information they need at this stage of their life
(or their children's), and by sharing with you and other members of the
group what they have experienced. Learning becomes more effective when
they learn from each other as well as from the information you can share
with them, especially since it is information that is relevant to their
needs. Sessions will vary in content and style, depending on the session
objective(s), the specific topics that the participants bring up, and
the personalities of the participants involved.

Here are some specific guidelines and techniques to help facilitation of
WIC Discussion Group:

**\* Build Your Group From Within.**

Assure the members that this is their group, and that it will be
structured to fit their needs and concerns.

**\* Establish Group Norms or "Ground Rules".**

> For example: set the time, agenda, and length of sessions; establish
> rules on confidentiality and sharing of group responsibilities; and
> clarify procedural issues, especially listening to others and
> respecting ideas or comments of others. Allow the group to establish
> its own norms, which need to be acceptable to all members of the
> group.

**\* Begin Each Session with a Check-in.**

This is not a rigid rule, but often useful in many groups. For example,
this could involve an "icebreaker" where every member of the group
shares -- perhaps a brief statement of who you are, the child's name and
age, any special needs of the child, and anything new that has happened
over the last month. The main objective is to help participants feel
comfortable and safe in expressing their concerns.

**\* Delivering the Opening Question.**

Silence and hesitancy are normal in the early stages of a discussion.
Before or after delivering your first open-ended question (see below),
you can prepare the group for this usual period of silence by telling
them it's okay to take a moment to think of their response. If the
silence continues past what you would consider to be normal, you can ask
or guess aloud about what it may mean. Also, you can voice the fact that
"it's sometimes hard to be the first to respond," or pick someone you
know will be comfortable answering the question.

**\* Ask Open-ended Questions.**

This is a skill that gets people involved in describing their own
experiences as they relate to the session objective(s). A conversation
should then develop that flows naturally and spontaneously. Asking
open-ended questions is the most direct way to find out what it is that
these particular WIC participants need to talk about. These questions
must be worded so that people do not feel they are being interrogated,
yet should enable you to find out important and specific information.

An open-ended question is one which cannot be answered by a "yes" or
"no" which would only give you a minimum of information and close the
conversation. There are no right or wrong answers to open-ended
questions. Open-ended questions require more informative answers and are
the same questions a good new reporter asks: Who, What, When, Where,
Why, How, How Much, How Often.

In asking open-ended questions, you must take care not to pose too many
questions in sequence which can make people feel they are being
interrogated. If you set up a friendly atmosphere from the beginning,
this will encourage participants to talk on a conversational level
rather than just answering a series of questions. Also, balance your use
of open-ended questions with the other facilitating skills such as
clarifying or focusing.

**\* Guide the Discussion.**

To facilitate means to allow things to happen and to make them easy. The
facilitator is a moderator, allowing others to speak and then gently
bringing

topics to a conclusion. At the same time, you must stay in control of
the discussion and avoid it becoming a "free for all". If that happens,
the quieter people will not have the opportunity to be heard, and no one
will learn anything. Here are some specific points to bear in mind when
guiding the discussion:

-   Guide the discussion by throwing out topics to be discussed, so that
    it doesn't lose momentum, and keep the topic focused on the
    session's objective(s).

-   Actively encourage participants to give more information and better
    define their situations, as well as focus on specific concerns. The
    conversation will need to be "directed" in order to better pinpoint
    issues and feelings on which the participants would like to
    concentrate.

-   Recognize fears, prejudices, and disagreement, and bring them out
    into the open.

-   Look for feedback -- yawns, stretching and other feedback that
    indicate whether or not people are listening.

-   Avoid letting group members monopolize "air time". To someone
    dominating the discussion, you can say "your points are really
    interesting, but we also need to discuss some other issues. Why
    don't you catch me after this session, or call me tomorrow, and we
    can talk some more" -- or however you can say this without
    embarrassing the person.

-   Avoid strong agreement or disagreement over a subject that leaves
    the impression that there's no sense discussing it.

-   Find ways to limit continual complaining or blaming of others.

**\* Encourage Participation.**

Ways to reinforce the importance of each participant's contribution and

encourage them to take part are:

## 

-   Focus on the person who is speaking; pay close attention to her (or
    him).

-   If someone speaks too softly, repeat their question and/or comments
    to the group before replying.

-   Give positive reinforcement and feedback to every person who speaks;
    a nod of the head or word of praise will encourage that person to
    speak again.

-   Watch for non-verbal signs that may indicate someone else's desire
    to respond or ask a question.

-   Use words that everyone is familiar with; avoid technical or medical
    terms.

-   Check the seating arrangement to make sure the circle will include
    everyone.

**\* Focus On Topics.**

Focusing emphasizes a particular subject that you think would be helpful
for the group to explore (or rather, the group has made it obvious to
you that they want it to be further explored). Commonly, a specific
topic (or topic area) repeatedly surfaces in the flow of the
conversation, in which case it may seem natural to further discuss and
clarify it. This may happen spontaneously, or as the facilitator, you
may need to ask more open-ended questions relating to the specific
issue. The purpose of focusing the conversation in this case would be to
help everyone better understand and further express their feelings about
an issue that they have shown is relevant to them.

Another reason to focus the discussion would be to help make sense of a
conversation that has ended up rambling, jumping from topic to topic
without any sense of clarification, or has become unrelated to the
session's objective(s). When the conversation seems to have confused
both you and the participants, it is time to get things back in focus.
To do this, you could select one particular point to repeat or condense
a number of points into a selective summary in order to concentrate on
how the participants are feeling, how their babies or children have been
acting, etc.

**\* Focus On Feelings.**

> Place primary emphasis on the feelings or experiences of each group
> member. Avoid debating ideas; this is a place for support and
> information sharing.

**\* Practice Active Listening.**

Some people tend to speak more than listen. Listening is a technique
that can be developed beyond the everyday practice we are all familiar
with. It means that you must be silent and allow the participants to
talk. We are all guilty of sometimes listening with half an ear to the
speaker while busily figuring out what to say next, or how to change the
subject to something we would rather talk about. However, in order to
help someone, you must listen carefully to what they are saying and
avoid the temptation to intervene with your own thoughts and interests.
Many times someone has mixed feelings or several concerns, and may need
more time to talk before you can be sure of how they really feel.
Listening skills can give you this time. Encourage group members to
listen to and understand what other group members are saying.\* Clarify.

This simply means making a point clear. To do this, you will first need
to use your listening skills to help gather enough information about
what a person has said to clearly understand their message and to
restate what you heard. This involves becoming an "active" listener,
encouraging people to respond to your interpretation of their statements
and then showing acceptance of what they have said.

**\* Stay With the Speaker.**

> When one person is speaking, stay with that person until they are
> finished, rather than allowing other members to interrupt or take the
> floor.

**\* Accept People as They Are.**

Effective learning and comfortable communication can only occur when
there is an atmosphere of acceptance. The trick here is to learn to
accept and respect someone's feelings without necessarily agreeing with
their point of view. Respond to the feelings that are behind the
comments being made; realize that you don't have to "teach" something,
but are here to listen to, talk with and learn something from the
participants and their experiences.

**\* Dealing With Strong Feelings, Doubts and Disagreements.**

Strive to be sensitive to the feelings of others; lead the group to
share their knowledge and experience without telling others what they
should do. Make sure that participants' experiences and solutions to
their own problems are offered to the others as "possibilities and
suggestions" rather than dictating only one way to do it.

**\* Dealing With Erroneous Information.**

When someone's input to the group discussion includes incorrect
information, you can make a statement that emphasizes the worth of their
experience and your respect for their decision, whether you agree with
it or not.

Some possible responses, which avoid embarrassing the person, are:

-   "I'm very glad that worked for you. Other people have found that
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ worked better for them."

\- "I'm very glad that worked for you, but all the references we've seen
do not recommend it."

\- "I'm glad you brought that up. That "used" to be what was generally
recommended, but now new research has found that ..."

-   "You've brought up a really interesting issue. Let's look it up in
    (a specific reference) and see what they say about it."

-   "That's too bad. What could you have done differently if you had the
    information we have talked about today?"

**\* Summarize the Discussion.**

As much as possible, bring ideas together, highlight certain
conversations or repeat relevant information, and complete one topic
before going on to another. Some groups find it helpful to end the
session with each participant sharing what the session has meant to
them, and what they learned or discovered during the session. This way,
the group can see that their input and shared experiences helped
everyone to learn something (it can be particularly valuable for them to
realize that they even helped you, the facilitator, learn something
new).

**\* Assist Members in Gaining Resources.**

> Provide sources of additional information such as pamphlets, videos,
> or referrals.

**\* Above All -- Have Fun!**

Remember that it takes time for a group to grow and develop trust. Be
patient and never define success by the number of people attending the
session. Enjoy yourself and the group members, and encourage them to do
the same.

**SCHEDULING OF NUTRITION EDUCATION FOLLOW-UP CONTACTS**

1.  WIC participants/caregivers should be given choices in being
    involved in designing their own nutrition education plan for a
    number of reasons:

> \*The WIC Program is advancing nutrition education by encouraging
> participants to be partners in facilitated group discussions.
>
> \*Allowing choices is fundamental to effective adult learning.

\*Just as children can be offered healthy food, but not forced to eat,
people can be given opportunities to learn, but not forced to
participate.

2.  In devising individual nutrition education plans, the following
    guidelines should be used:

\*At certification, each WIC participant/caregiver will be given a list
of all discussion sessions and encouraged to select a group session to
attend as a follow-up visit based on the individualized nutrition plan.

\*If the participant/caregiver is hesitant or needs more information,
the certifying health professional will describe the session topics in a
positive way and reinforce the importance of attending, the benefits to
the participant, and the benefits to the whole group when the
participant/caregiver participates.

**ICEBREAKER EXERCISES**

##### Introduction

What are icebreakers? How do they differ from openers? Both are starter
activities \-- activities that help you "warm up" your clients and get
them used to the idea of actively participating in the class.

**\*Icebreakers:**

These are exercises that are not related to the topic of the session.
For example, if your discussion session is focusing on the importance of
breastfeeding, an icebreaker exercise might be one client interviewing
another about her favorite colors and why. The two would then switch the
roles of interviewer and interviewee. Both will then share with the
class what they've discovered about the other person. Icebreakers are
useful when clients don't know each other. They get shy people involved,
and help clients overcome feelings of isolation or loneliness by getting
to know another person.

**\*Openers:**

These are similar to icebreakers, but they are activities related to the
session topic. For example, if the discussion session is about the
importance of breastfeeding, you might have clients interview each other
about their opinions on breastfeeding. If you have your clients share
their opinions as you list the issues on the blackboard, you can then
use the list to begin talking about the importance of breastfeeding.
Like icebreakers, openers help people get to know something unique about
each other and get people involved in participating.

Using an icebreaker or opener sends the message that the clients will
play an active role in your sessions -- that this is not another
"lecture" or "just sit and listen" class. Some icebreakers/openers also
help the instructor feel less nervous! However, you should choose the
icebreakers/openers that you feel comfortable doing.

The following pages include descriptions of various icebreakers/openers.
You can use these, but feel free to develop your own icebreaker/opener
by adapting any of the ones listed.

#### SAMPLE ICEBREAKERS AND OPENERS

##### \*Introductions via Interviewing One Another

\- Have clients find a partner.

-   Have them take turns interviewing the other person. Interview
    questions can include name, number of children, hobbies, where
    they're from, where they work or have worked, etc.

\- An interesting interview topic could be their given names.

> Does the client like their name?
>
> Why or why not?
>
> Is it a family tradition?
>
> Would you trade it for another name?
>
> Will it/did it affect what you will name your children?

#####  The facilitator should interview/be interviewed as well!

-   After 5 minutes, have them share with the class what they learned

> about that person.

Note: If the class is large and sharing their findings with the class
would take too long, divide clients into groups of four and have them
take turns interviewing each other within the group. Omit the final step
(above).

This activity could also serve as a useful opener for different topics.
For example, in the interview, they could ask one another about their
opinions on breastfeeding, how their pregnancy is going so far, what
eating habits they've changed or kept the same during their pregnancy,
how they feed their infant and why, what questions they have about
feeding children, what successes/problems have they had in feeding their
child, etc. Responses to these questions could be listed on a blackboard
or flipchart and serve as the basis for initiating session discussion.

\***Going Around the Room to Introduce Yourself**

Have clients give first names and a bit of information about themselves.
Information could be unrelated to the topic of the class (for example:
baby's due date, number of kids, what kind of day they're having,
favorite food, funniest thing their kid has said or done, etc.). Or, the
topic could be related directly to the discussion session (best thing
about breastfeeding, what kind of advice you would give to another
mother about what to feed their child, how your eating has changed now
that you're pregnant, etc.). This strategy is useful when there is a
small group or limited time.

**\*Working As a Group to Define Goals**

\- Divide clients into groups of three or four.

\- Have clients introduce themselves to the other people in their group.

-   Within each group, have clients discuss what they hope to get out of

> this session.

-   Have clients make a list of what they want to get out of the
    session.

> The facilitator should list goals on flipchart or blackboard.

-   Goals can be used to determine topics for the group to cover in the

> session.

This activity can also be used as an opener. For example, in a session
for pregnant women discussing breastfeeding, have each group come up
with a list of advantages and disadvantages on breastfeeding. Have
groups share their lists with other groups in the session. The lists can
be used as a starting point for the discussion session. Other group
topics could include questions such as:

-   "What advice would you give to a mother who wants to know about

> feeding infants?"

\- "What should you eat during pregnancy?"

\- "What about feeding children?"

\- "What about making baby food?"

\- "What about breastfeeding?"

**\*Me and My Food**

-   Have clients, on their own, answer the following questions by
    writing

> or drawing pictures. Give them a few minutes to complete the
>
> questions.

\- Have them find a partner and share their answers.

**ME AND MY FOOD**

1)  My favorite food is
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

2)  My favorite food when I'm sick is
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

3)  My favorite food when I was a child was
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

4)  My favorite vegetable is
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

5)  My favorite snack food is
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

6)  The food I dislike the most is
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

(Make this into a handout to make the exercise easier for the client.
Provide pens or pencils if possible.)

**\* Telephone Game**

This is the same game you might have played as a kid in which one person
whispers a message to another person, and that person then whispers it
to the next person in line, and so on down the line. The fun part is
seeing if the message makes it all the way down the line correctly.

The facilitator gives the message. This should be a nutritional
statement relating to the class topic. For example:

-   "Babies should never be put to bed with a bottle because it causes

> tooth decay."

\- "Breastfeeding moms should drink plenty of liquids in a day."

The message can be used to initiate the topic for the class.

**DOCUMENTATION FOR A NUTRITION EDUCATION VISIT**

**AS A GROUP SESSION**

Documentation of low risk group sessions (second contact) should include
the session title, names of the participants, and a summary of the group
discussion. This documentation should be kept in a master file.

When low risk participants are certified, they should be scheduled for
group nutrition education sessions. The certifier should note this in
the participant's medical record at the time of the certification. On
the day of the group session, enter a Y (yes) on the participant WIC
encounter (received education today) and the correct PTBMIS procedure
code.

**GOAL SETTING**

A goal is a particular kind of decision -- an action decision with a
plan. To accomplish goals we need to believe that we have the ability to
affect change. It helps to anticipate possible barriers, so these can be
factored in for realistic success. The object of goal-setting is to be
successful, and change in small steps that over time will be monumental.
By affecting health behaviors, we're hoping all our clients and their
families live to be a hundred!

**\* Goals Need To Be Specific and Measurable**

If your client is unsure what they would like to do to improve their
health-

related lifestyle, have them describe, as thoroughly as possible, an
area they

wish to improve. This description will probably allow them many

possibilities for small goals. They then need only pick the one or two
they

wish to try first.

**\* Be Realistic, Not Perfectionistic**

###### When goals are unrealistic, they often set the stage for failure. One may 

think the goal isn't dramatic enough, so why bother. The small successes
set

us up for bigger and bigger successes. Since change is a lifelong
process,

these small successes set the stage for continued growth. We build self-

confidence and self-esteem if we succeed even in the small things. Help

your clients set themselves up for success.

**\* Choose Small Steps That Focus On Behavior**

Behaving in a consistent, persistent manner will produce the change that
is

desired. There may be a big goal at the end, but many, many small goals
get

us there.

**\* Be Flexible and Reset Goals If Necessary**

The American way is to bite off more than we can chew. When this

happens, our clients need to give themselves permission to reset the
goal.

**\* Plan the Reward -- Even If It's a Compliment We Give Ourselv**es

Our clients need to congratulate themselves when a goal has been
achieved.

> Doing this on a daily basis, each time an action has been completed
> correctly, offers positive reinforcement and helps assure that good
> behavior continues. Some class time can be spent having the clients
> share their goal for change as it helps to firm up that goal in their
> minds. By sharing it, they also tend to feel more committed to
> achieving it -- their word is on the line. If a client does not wish
> to share a goal, remember they have the option of passing and being
> respected for that decision.

**\* Suggestions From the Experts**

\- Write the goal on a card.

\- Read the statement in the morning and before retiring at night.

-   Visualize the accomplishment of the goal being as detailed as

> possible.

\- Feel the great feeling of having accomplished your goal.

Sources: "See You at the Top", Z. Zigler.

"How To Put More Time In Your Life", D. Scott.

"Seeds of Greatness", D. Waitley.

**SAMPLE SESSION OUTLINE TO CUSTOMIZE FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL USE.**

**SESSION OUTLINE:**

1)  Opening the Session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. (First
    names only is acceptable)

-   Icebreaker Exercise (Optional -- see earlier section on
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups)

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up and focus
    the discussion:

3)  Continue the discussion by focusing on a topic.

4)  Closing the Session

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

**SAMPLE DISCUSSION SESSION OUTLINE TO CUSTOMIZE FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL
USE.**

**(TITLE) DISCUSSION SESSION**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

**OBJECTIVE:**

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

**METHOD:**

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

**EVALUATION OF FACILITATED NUTRITION EDUCATION SESSIONS**

1.  Were all participants scheduled for appropriate program category?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

2.  Did the facilitator introduce him/herself?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

3.  Did participants have an opportunity to introduce themselves?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

4.  Did the facilitator use an ice breaker exercise at the beginning of
    the session?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

5.  Did the facilitator use general open-ended questions to lead the
    discussion?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

6.  Did the facilitator assure that information exchanged was accurate
    and correct?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NA\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

7.  Were all appropriate topics covered that were brought up by
    participants?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

8.  Was the room setting:

> Conducive to group interaction? YES NO EXPLAIN
> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> Comfortable? YES NO EXPLAIN\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
>
> Clear from distractions? YES NO EXPLAIN\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

9.  Did the facilitator summarize the key points discussed at the end of
    the session?

YES\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_NO\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_EXPLAIN:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

10. Comments:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-1

PRENATAL NUTRITION NEEDS AND IMPORTANCE OF WEIGHT GAIN

**PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION: P-1**

**PRENATAL NUTRITION NEEDS AND IMPORTANCE OF WEIGHT GAIN**

**Eating for two?**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLE:**

"So What Should I Eat Now That I'm Pregnant?"

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants will discuss the importance of proper nutrition as it
relates to weight gain during pregnancy.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Study Guide (follows)

2.  C.W. Suitor: *Maternal Weight Gain: A Report of an Expert Work
    Group*.: National Center for Education in Maternal and Child Health,
    Arlington, VA, 1997.

3.  Committee on Nutritional Status During Pregnancy and Lactation, Food
    and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine, National Academy of
    Sciences: *"Nutrition during Pregnancy and Lactation: An
    Implementation Guide*", National Academy Press, Washington, D.C.,
    1992.

4.  E.S. Weigley, D.H. Mueller, and C.H. Robinson: *Robinson's Basic
    Nutrition and Diet Therapy,* 8^th^ edition, Prentice-Hall, Inc.,
    1997.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Food Guide Pyramid, USDA

2.  Food for a Healthy Mother and Baby

3.  Why Every Woman Needs Folic Acid

4.  Relief from Common Pregnancy Discomforts

5.  The Strength of Iron

6.  Milk Recipe Booklet

7.  Cheese Recipe Booklet

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

1.  Weight Gain

2.  Nutrition Needs in Pregnancy

3.  Specific Issues such as:

-   Lactose or Milk Intolerance

-   High Empty Calories

-   Common Discomforts of Pregnancy -- Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation,
    Heartburn

-   Iron and Prenatal Supplements

# PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-1

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their name and their due date, or other information you think
    of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups".

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    session and focus the discussion on the following topics:

**Weight gain:**

-   *"What have you heard about how much weight a woman should gain in
    her pregnancy?"*

-   *"What might happen if you do not gain enough weight?"*

-   *"What might happen if you gain too much weight?"*

-   *"What do you think of your weight gain so far?"*

-   *"What other things can affect weight gain besides the food you eat
    in pregnancy?"*

**Nutritional Needs in Pregnancy:**

-   *"What have you heard about what pregnant women should/should not
    eat?"*

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-   *"What have you heard about dieting while pregnant?"*

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-   *"What changes have you made in your eating habits now that you're
    pregnant?"*

-   *"What happens to you and your baby if your diet is inadequate
    during your pregnancy?"*

-   *"Share some ideas about nutritious foods that are easy to fix and
    fit well into your schedule and budget."*

-   *"Why is it important to drink water?"*

-   *"Are there any foods you do not eat?"*

3)  If necessary, help refocus the discussion on a topic area or
    specific issue:

**Milk intolerance/dislike:**

-   *"How do you feel about drinking milk?"*

-   *"How do you use the milk and cheese you get on your WIC voucher?"*

**High Empty Calories:**

-   *"What affects will excess fat, sugar, and salt have on your
    pregnancy?"*

**Common Discomforts of Pregnancy:**

-   *"What discomforts are you experiencing with your pregnancy and how
    are you dealing with them?"*

**Prenatal Supplements:**

-   *"What have you heard about taking vitamin supplements while you are
    pregnant?"\
    *

**Other General Questions:**

-   *"What have you read or heard about pregnancy that was interesting
    to* *you?"*

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-   *"Have you heard anything about pregnancy that you've been
    wondering*

*or worrying about?"*

-   *"What conflicting or confusing advice have you received now that
    you're pregnant?*

-   *"What old wives tales or myths have you heard about pregnancy?"*

4)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Closing questions:

-   *"What do you feel are your good food habits?"*

-   *"What is one thing you will do to improve your eating habits?"*

**PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-1**

**PRENATAL NUTRITION NEEDS AND IMPORTANCE OF WEIGHT GAIN**

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION: P-1

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

# WEIGHT GAIN DURING PREGNANCY

Optimal birth outcome is defined as a healthy infant weighing from 6.6
through 8.8 pounds. Recommendations are based on this goal and take into
account postpartum fat retention.

# Assessment of Pregnancy Size

A large body of evidence suggests that weight gain during pregnancy
(especially during the second and third trimesters) is an important
determinant of fetal growth, although the effect is modified by the
mother's pre-pregnancy weight to height ratio. The correlation between
gain and growth is greatest in thin women and weakest in obese women.

# Height

Height should be measured as soon as possible during pregnancy to
eliminate confounding associated with postural changes (beginning at
approximately 20 weeks).

# Pre-pregnancy Weight

The WIC program relies on self-reporting of pre-pregnancy weight,
although it may not be reliable as weight is often underreported, and
height is often overestimated. If pre-pregnancy weight cannot be
reasonably determined, the recommendation is to identify gestational age
and focus on rate of weight gain.

# Target Range for Weight Gain

The recommended amount of weight gain during pregnancy varies according
to the woman's pre-pregnancy weight. Once this has been established as
underweight, normal, overweight, or very overweight, appropriate weight
gain ranges can be targeted and current weight gain status can be
assessed.

These weight gain recommendations are general, meaning that there are
wide variations in weight gain among women having optimal birth
outcomes. These recommendations are assumptions based on average women
having average gains and delivering average size infants weighing from
6.6 to 8.8 pounds. These recommendations may not apply to women at the
extremes of pre-pregnancy weight.

The encouraged weight gain ranges for pregnancy are as follows:

+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+
| [Status]{.underline}  | [BMI]        | [Recommended]{.underline}     |
|                       | {.underline} |                               |
|                       |              | [Weight Gain]{.underline}     |
+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+
| Underweight           | \<19.8       | 28-40 pounds                  |
+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+
| Normal                | 19.8-26.0    | 25-35 pounds                  |
+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+
| Twins                 |              | 35-45 pounds                  |
+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+
| Overweight            | 26.0-29.0    | 15-25 pounds                  |
+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+
| Obese                 | 29.1         | 15 pounds                     |
+-----------------------+--------------+-------------------------------+

Extremely obese women should be encouraged to gain within the lower
range limit, and should never follow a weight reduction diet during
pregnancy. These women should be encouraged to eat moderate amounts of
nutritious food in order to consume sufficient quantities of essential
nutrients.

**Monitoring Weight Gain during Pregnancy**

A desired pattern of weight gain is a progressive increase in weight
that approximates the recommended rate, following a steady curve.

Monitoring weight gain over time requires accurate procedures and
correctly operated equipment. Any abrupt or inconsistent changes should
first be examined to see if they reflect errors in equipment or methods.

Special concerns to monitor include:

-   Obese woman who gains less than 1# per month after the first
    trimester

-   Normal weight woman who gains less than 2# per month after the first
    trimester

-   After 20 weeks gestation, a gain of more than 6.5# pounds per month

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION: P-1

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

# PRENATAL SUPPLEMENTS AND IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

During pregnancy, iron deficiency anemia may occur due to heightened
nutrient requirements that exceed the dietary intake, or because of
diluted blood volume. Excessive nutrient losses or increased metabolic
requirements may contribute to the condition. Pregnant women are
generally instructed by their physician to supplement with some form of
iron to avoid iron deficiency anemia.

# Affects and Symptoms

During pregnancy, mild iron deficiency is associated with:

-   Premature delivery

-   Low birth weight

-   Placental insufficiency

The following are associated with iron deficiency:

-   Defects in cellular immunity

-   Reduction of white blood cell bacterial destruction

-   Pale dry skin

-   Feeling weak or tired

-   Shortness of breath

-   Loss of appetite

-   Headache

-   Dizziness

**Factors Influencing**

> A simple test called hemoglobin or hematocrit is used to determine an
> individual's iron status. The following factors can influence the
> value:

-   Altitude

-   Age

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-   Cigarette smoking (actually increases values)

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-2

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTATION

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION: P-2

**INDIVIDUAL CONSULTATION**

**A Chance to Ask Questions and Talk with the Nutritionist**

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants/caregivers will receive individualized counseling based
on the clients special needs, questions, or problems.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

All sources listed in prenatal discussion may be relevant.

**METHOD:**

The nutritionist will use active listening skills to address the
participant in a one-on-one discussion that targets particular concerns
of each individual on WIC. The nutritionist will review client
information, note possible areas of need and provide information, and
follow-up scheduling as necessary.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

Appropriate handouts and pamphlets as deemed necessary; based on the
clients special needs, questions, or problems.

**PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-2**

**Session Outline:**

1.  Opening the session.

-   Introduce yourself with individual eye contact (if culturally
    appropriate) and confirmation of client's gestational status. This
    is a good neutral ground to start the discussion and can be an
    opening to assess the client's awareness and knowledge base of
    pregnancy. Comments referring to the fetal development like "The
    baby weighs about a pound now" or referring to the number of
    weeks/months to go, and general questions about other pregnancies,
    if appropriate, can help the client feel more comfortable and
    provide an opportunity for the nutritionist TO LISTEN to the
    participant.

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-   Quickly review records and notes for any identified risks needing
    intervention or reassessment. Along with those concerns voiced by
    the woman at the meeting, these factors will determine the direction
    of that discussion.

2.  Go through question format relating to health care history and
    current needs defined by the client. Make notes if needed and listen
    to responses for leading the inquiry.

-   Clarify need for information to support breastfeeding, adequate
    weight gain, healthy choices, and taking care of self and family.
    Utilize materials as indicated.

> **Possible Discussion Topics:**

**\*Risk factors identified at time of certification.**

> **\*Inappropriate Weight Gain Pattern:**

-   *"How have you been feeling?"*

-   *"What has your doctor said?"*

-   *"What have other people told you?"*

-   *"What do you think about your weight gain?"*

-   *"What are some reasons to gain weight? How much?"*

-   *"What do you think would be most helpful?"*

> See Prenatal Discussion Session P-1 for additional questions relating
> to weight gain.

**\*Nutrition/Metabolic Concerns such as Diabetes Mellitus**

-   *"How have you been feeling?"*

-   *"When was your blood sugar last checked?"*

-   *"How is management of your blood sugar going?"*

-   *"Who is helping you with management of your diet and blood sugar?"*

-   *"What do you know about risks to you and the baby related to your
    diabetes?"*

-   *"What has your doctor said?"*

**\* Prenatal Care**

> \*Ask the client if she is receiving prenatal care. If she is not,
> make an immediate referral.
>
> \*If she is receiving prenatal care, suggested topics include:

-   *"Where?"*

-   *"When?"*

-   *"For how long?"*

-   *"Any questions about what the doctor or nurse has said?"*

-   *"Tell me about finding:*

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-   *a doctor*

-   *a place to deliver*

-   *pre-admission*

-   *a pediatrician*

-   *child care"*

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-   *"What do you think about:*

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-   *childbirth classes?" (if available)*

-   *parenting classes?" (if available)*

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-   *"Where will you:*

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-   *get your postpartum check up?"*

-   *take the baby for well child check-ups and immunizations?"*

**\* Breastfeeding**

-   *"What have you thought about breastfeeding?"*

> See session P-3 for additional suggestions for helping clients to make
> informed choices about infant feeding.
>
> \*If the client is interested in breastfeeding, guide her with
> possible strategies for support:

-   *"Who would you call if you needed help with breastfeeding?"*

> *(Know your local breastfeeding advocates)*

-   *"Who can help you with breastfeeding now and after the baby is
    born?'*

-   *"What are your plans for after the baby's birth?" (job/school)*

-   *"What have you heard about giving the baby a bottle?"*

-   *"What have you heard about expressing your milk from your breasts
    now or after the baby is born?"*

> \*If the client is definitely opposed to breastfeeding, offer positive
> statements that leave a neutral and open-ended situation:

-   *"It is a decision only you can make. Some mothers go ahead and try
    it for awhile before they decide for sure."*

-   *"You are always welcome to talk about it here or with\_\_\_."*

-   *"We recommend breastfeeding and can help you with that choice."*

-   *"We like to support it as the best choice for mother and baby."*

4.  Closing the Session

-   Summarize the topics discussed

-   Confirm that strategies are still agreeable.

-   Identify if there are any more questions or need for referrals.

-   Reinforce that the nutritionist is available when future needs
    arise.

-   Thank the participant for her time.

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-3

HOW WILL YOU FEED YOUR LITTLE ONE?

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION: P-3

**HOW WILL YOU FEED YOUR NEW LITTLE ONE?**

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants will be able to make an informed decision about how
they will feed their baby, through addressing the advantages, as well as
their concerns and fears, about breastfeeding.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

The Best Start Training Program which reviews:

1.  The 3-Step Counseling Approach

2.  The 5 Major Barriers to Breastfeeding

3.  The Motivational Factors in Breastfeeding

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Baby Doll

2.  Appropriate "Best Start" Breastfeeding pamphlets

3.  Breastfeeding is the Best fact sheet

4.  Breastfeeding -- Baby's Best Start pamphlet

5.  Breast models, examples of breast shells, bras, nursing pads, pumps,
    and other breastfeeding aids.

6.  Video: Breastfeeding: Another Way of Saying "I Love You",
    Mississippi WIC Program

7.  Video: "For all the Right Reasons"

# PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-3

**Session Outline:**

1.  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their name and their due date, or other information you think
    of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups".

2.  Optional -- Show the video (or parts of it): Breastfeeding: Another
    Way of Saying "I Love You"

3.  Encourage participants to explore their concerns about
    breastfeeding; acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that
    they're normal; and as a group, address the concerns or fears that
    arise. Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up
    the session and focus the discussion on any of the following topics:

**General Questions and Lack of Confidence Issues:**

-   *"What have you read or heard about breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What do you think of when you hear the word breastfeed?"*

-   *"What seems to concern you the most about the idea of breastfeeding
    your baby?"*

-   *"Does anyone have any fears or doubts they'd like to share about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What do you think about breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Why do you think some women choose not to breastfeed?"*

-   *"Is there anything you think you might not like about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Has anyone heard any confusing or conflicting advice about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What do you think would be the most difficult thing for you if you
    breastfed?"*

-   *"What type of women do you think breastfeed their babies?"*

-   *"What have other people told you about breastfeeding?"\
    *

**Embarrassment:**

-   *"Many women would be embarrassed to breastfeed in public because
    their breasts may be seen. How do you feel about this?"*

-   *"Have you thought about whether you would feel comfortable
    breastfeeding around other people?"*

-   *"How do you feel about women who breastfeed in public?"*

-   *"Would anyone like to share how they feel about breastfeeding in
    front of other people?"*

-   *"Have you seen other mothers breastfeeding in public places? What
    did you think?"*

-   *"How do you feel about the breast being seen traditionally as a
    sexual object?"*

-   *"Have you thought about what you would do if your breasts leaked
    through your clothing? How would you feel?"*

**Loss of Freedom:**

-   *"Would anyone like to share their plans for after the baby is born?
    What do you think your schedule will be like?"*

-   *"Does anyone plan to go to work or school after the baby is born?
    How are you planning to handle it?"*

-   *"How do you feel about leaving your baby with a sitter?"*

-   *"Have you ever heard that if you breastfeed, your baby will be
    overly attached, clingy, or spoiled?"*

-   *"Is there anything in your life that you feel you'll be giving up
    in order to breastfeed your baby?" Can you share some of these?"*

**Dietary and Health Practices:**

-   *"What are some things you've heard about breastfeeding and...*

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-   *not being able to eat certain foods (junk food, spicy foods,
    etc.)?"*

-   *having to follow a specific diet?"*

-   *drinking enough milk?"*

-   *drinking wine, beer, or cocktails?"*

-   *smoking?"*

-   *taking drugs?"*

-   *having to get lots of sleep?"*

-   *needing to be calm and relaxed?"*

-   *taking medications for colds, headaches, allergies, etc.?"*

**Influence of Family and Friends**

-   *"What do your family and friends think about breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What kinds of things have they told you about?"*

-   *"What kind of advice or support have you gotten about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"How do you think your husband, family, and friends can help you?"*

-   *"What are some ways that a father can play an important role with
    the new baby? Or a grandmother?"*

-   *"What do you think you would do if someone wants to give the baby
    some formula? Or if someone thinks the baby isn't getting enough?"*

4.  Encourage participants to share the reasons and factors that attract
    women to breastfeeding, focusing on the advantages. Ask general,
    non-specific, open-ended questions to focus the discussion on the
    perceived advantages of breastfeeding, such as:

**Infant Health**

-   *"How do you think breastfeeding helps babies?"*

-   *"What are some of the health benefits of breastfeeding that you've
    heard of?"*

-   *"How have the breastfed babies you've known been healthier?"*

-   *"Can you describe some of the ways that breastfed babies seem
    healthier to you?"*

**Mother/Infant Bond**

-   *"What have you heard (or experienced) concerning a special
    closeness between a breastfed baby and mother?"*

-   *"Why do you think breastfeeding might create a special bond?"*

-   *"Can you describe what kind of relationship you think breastfeeding
    creates for a mother and her baby?"*

**Benefits for Mother:**

-   *"Would any of you who have breastfed before describe how it made
    you feel? Or describe what you have heard other mothers talk about
    how they feel about it?"*

-   *"What have you heard about how breastfeeding can make motherhood so
    worthwhile?"*

-   *"What do you think breastfeeding does that specifically helps a new
    mother?"*

5.  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Close the meeting and thank everyone for coming and sharing with the
    group.

**PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-3**

**HOW WILL YOU FEED YOUR LITTLE ONE?**

**Study Guide**

**The Best Start Training Program**

1.  **The Barriers**

> The Best Start Program is a research and breastfeeding promotion
> project that has studied the reasons why some WIC clients, despite the
> fact that they know breastfeeding is the best way to feed babies,
> choose to bottle feed. Through many interview sessions with WIC
> clients, Best Start has determined that there are five major barriers
> to breastfeeding:

-   Lack of Confidence

-   Embarrassment to Breastfeed in Public

-   Loss of Freedom

-   Concerns about Dietary and Health Practices (Lifestyle Restrictions)

-   Influence of Family or Friends

> Solicit from the participants the various reasons they've heard why
> some women don't breastfeed, and determine whether or not they fit
> under one of these five barrier categories.

2.  **The Counseling Strategy**

> Each client and each problem requires a unique response. However,
> there are three initial steps that work with all of them because they
> are designed to counteract the lack of confidence and lack of
> knowledge that are at the root of these women's fears and doubts.
> These three basic steps are:

**\*Step 1: Listen to Mother's Concerns**

> Many women need help in sorting out their feelings, and we can help by
> making them feel as comfortable as possible in sharing their concerns
> with us. That's why it's extremely important to begin by asking
> open-ended questions that encourage women to explore their views on
> breastfeeding.

**\*Step 2: Acknowledge Her Feelings**

> Once we know the real sources of a woman's reluctance to breastfeed,
> we need to acknowledge her fears, and reassure her that these feelings
> are normal and not uncommon. Showing her you appreciate and understand
> her concerns will help her to trust you and feel safe talking with
> you.

**\*Step 3: Educate**

> Now that you have identified her feelings and expressed your
> acceptance and approval, you're ready to educate by giving her
> accurate information that deals with her fears and misconceptions.
> Knowledge is power. It will enable her to ignore the misinformation
> she's received from other sources and trust what you tell her.
> However, be especially careful not to present too much new information
> too quickly; it could actually reinforce her fears or make
> breastfeeding look difficult or complicated.

3.  **Using the Counseling Strategy to Address the Barriers**

# Lack of Confidence

\*Mothers might say:

-   *"My breasts are too small."*

-   *"My breasts are too large."*

-   *"My milk looks too thin."*

-   *"The nurse said to offer formula after feeding."*

-   *"It seems so complicated. I don't think I can do it right."*

-   *"My diet isn't good enough."*

-   *"I smoke/I drink/ I'm taking medicine."*

-   *"Everytime my baby cries, someone tells me to give him a*
    *bottle."*

\*Mothers may have these concerns:

-   Many women do not understand how the breasts make milk.

-   Some women use formula because they are afraid they cannot make
    enough milk. Using a bottle means the baby spends less time at the
    breast, so the breast makes less milk. Suddenly, the woman's fears
    come true.

-   Lack of confidence makes women vulnerable to myths and old-wives
    tales about other's negative experiences. We have to be careful not
    to make it sound hard or imply that the mother can "do it wrong."

-   A few women believe that breastfeeding requires skills that are
    complicated and difficult to learn.

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-   Most promotional materials from formula companies use wealthy women
    to illustrate breastfeeding and stress the importance of being
    healthy and relaxed when lactating. These messages reinforce poorer
    women's fears that their lives may be too complicated, and their
    diets too inadequate to breastfeed.

-   During the first few months of breastfeeding, many women or their
    relatives misinterpret a baby's cries as a sign that they don't have
    enough milk.

\*To help acknowledge a mother's concerns, consider:

-   Aren't we all afraid of something we've never done before? Weren't
    we all afraid the first time we were pregnant and gave birth?

-   A can of formula has all the ingredients and nutritional values
    listed right on the can. There are no such reassuring labels on the
    breast.

-   A bottle of formula shows exactly how many ounces a baby is getting.
    Unfortunately, breasts are not marked in ounces and we cannot see
    how much the baby is getting.

-   Doesn't it only seem logical that large breasts would produce more
    milk than small breasts?

\*Mothers may appreciate hearing the following information:

-   Women have been breastfeeding for centuries. The human race wouldn't
    have survived if women weren't capable of producing the perfect food
    for their babies.

-   If your body can produce such a perfect, beautiful baby, it can
    produce lots of perfect breastmilk.

-   There is a terrific sense of accomplishment in succeeding in doing
    something you thought you might not be able to.

-   Milk production is not related to breast size. Size is determined by
    fatty tissue. Milk production is possible as long as you have milk
    glands.

# Embarrassment

\*Mothers might say:

-   *"My husband doesn't want his friends to watch."*

-   *"My mother says I look like a cow when I nurse."*

-   *"What if I'm in the grocery store or mall?"*

-   *"What if I start leaking all over the place?"*

\*Mothers may have these concerns:

-   Breasts are seen as sexual objects and women worry that
    breastfeeding in public will:

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-   Arouse men

-   Make their husbands jealous

-   Make other women jealous

-   Look "gross" or "disgusting"

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-   Most women resent having to go into a restroom and having to hide in
    their cars or bedrooms in order to feel comfortable nursing their
    child.

-   Women differ in how uncomfortable they feel about breastfeeding in
    front of others:

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-   Some women would feel uncomfortable even in front of relatives and
    friends unless they were sure that their breasts were not exposed.

-   Others would feel apprehensive even if seen breastfeeding discreetly

-   Many women who would feel self-conscious in a public setting would
    be comfortable breastfeeding in private.

-   A small proportion of women could not consider breastfeeding. For
    them, breasts are strictly for sex, and the idea of putting their
    baby's mouth on the breast is disgusting.

-   Many women would feel embarrassed if their breasts leaked, leaving a
    milk stain that others could see.

\*Demonstrate how to nurse discreetly in public.

> Use cloth diapers, receiving blankets, loose clothing, etc. Practice
> with sweaters or T-shirts that can be pulled up from the bottom,
> rather than clothes that must be unbuttoned from the top down.

## C. Loss of Freedom

\*Mothers might say:

-   *"I still want to be able to go out and have a good time."*

-   *"I want to be able to go back to school."*

-   *"I need to get a job."*

-   *"I don't want to mix nursing and bottlefeeding, so I'll just
    bottlefeed."*

\*Mothers may have these concerns:

-   Breastfeeding is seen as incompatible with an active social life.
    Younger mothers are especially concerned that breastfeeding will
    prevent them from having time for themselves or their friends.

-   Some women are fearful of the bonding they are told accompanies
    breastfeeding because it will further decrease their freedom. They
    mistakenly believe:

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-   the breastfed child will cry if its mother is not nearby.

-   breastfeeding makes it hard to leave the child with a sitter.

-   the breastfed child will be spoiled.

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-   Many women do not understand how to mix breastfeeding and formula
    supplements.

-   Some women view pumping as messy, painful or a "hassle."

-   A first-time mother often hears, "This will change your life
    forever," or "Nothing will ever be the same."

-   Those who do not have children may see mothers as burdened with
    babies who cry when the mother is away or who hang on to the mother
    and do not want to go to a pushy relative.

-   TV programs and movies glorify the independent woman; the one with
    the career, family and active social life. There is little that
    shows a woman at home with her children, creating a warm family
    life.

-   Many pictures of breastfeeding women show them at home in expensive
    nightgowns. Many WIC mothers must work to support children. They
    will see this as incompatible with breastfeeding.

\*Mothers may appreciate hearing the following information:

-   While the mother was pregnant, the baby was in a warm, secure
    environment; the baby's body was constantly being massaged by the
    uterus, and their mom's heartbeat was always heard. After birth, the
    baby still needs lots of touch and cuddling. Studies show that
    babies deprived of a loving touch do not grow well, even with plenty
    of food.

-   The baby whose needs are met and is loved comes to trust their world
    and believes they are a lovable person. As he gets older he will
    feel secure enough to be independent. We believe that the baby who
    is allowed to be "attached to mother" will feel good enough about
    themselves to be independent of their mother at their own pace.

-   Reconsider how "convenient" bottlefeeding really is. Feeding in the
    middle of the night, taking enough bottles when you go out, keeping
    bottles from spoiling in hot weather, mixing, washing, losing parts,
    running out...

-   Breastfed babies tend to be healthier. People are more willing to
    watch your healthy baby than a sickly one. Healthy babies are easier
    and more fun to take care of.

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-   Mother can breastfeed and bottlefeed the baby. Start out
    breastfeeding for the first few weeks at home, then switch to a
    bottle when mother needs to be away. Mother can still breastfeed
    when they're together.

-   It's nice to be needed, to have a special job that no one else can
    do for the baby. The breastfed baby will have absolutely no doubt
    about who the mother is.

-   Remember that a baby is little for only a few short months. Compared
    to the rest of their life (75 to 80 years on average), breastfeeding
    doesn't last long. The truth is, before very long, your baby will be
    all grown up and independent, and you will miss that very brief
    period when the baby needed you so much.

#  Concerns about Dietary and Health Practices

\*Mothers might say:

-   *"I drink. I smoke. I'm taking medicine."*

-   *"I don't want to have to watch what I eat."*

-   *"They say you can't eat onions, garlic, jalapenos...My life is too
    complicated."*

\*Mothers may have these concerns:

-   Many women feel that breastfeeding will require them to change many
    dietary or health practices. They are unwilling or unsure of their
    ability to:

-   give up smoking

-   give up drinking alcohol

-   drink enough milk

-   give up junk food and/or spicy food

-   get enough sleep

-   be relaxed

\*Mothers might appreciate hearing the following information:

-   A long time ago, there were no nutritionists telling people what to
    eat, and everybody breastfed just fine.

-   Women in other countries often have very poor diets, yet they
    breastfeed their babies for two, three, or more years.

-   There are no foods that you need to avoid in order to breastfeed.
    Think of women in Mexico or India. They eat very spicy foods and
    still breastfeed. Don't listen to what everyone says about chocolate
    or cabbage or pizza.

-   It is important for all of us to eat healthy foods all through our
    lives. If you eat right, you'll look and feel better, but what you
    eat doesn't have much to do with your ability to breastfeed.

-   It is not good to smoke whether you breastfeed or bottlefeed.
    Second-hand smoke causes many health problems in babies and
    children.

-   Women who tend to be tense and "hyper" can breastfeed just fine. In
    fact, the hormones your body makes help you relax and feel calm and
    peaceful.

-   If breastfeeding were as difficult and involved as many restrictions
    as some people think, nobody would do it.

-   Your doctor can usually find a type or prescription drug or
    recommend a medicine that you can take that will not interfere with
    breastfeeding.

## E. Influence of Family and Friends

\*Mothers might say:

-   "I've never seen anyone breastfeed."

-   "My mother couldn't breastfeed."

-   "My boyfriend doesn't want me to breastfeed."

\*Mothers may have these concerns:

-   Many women, especially young women who are pregnant for the first
    time, rely on their own mothers for advice and support with child
    care, including infant feeding.

-   In many families, the mother's husband or her boyfriend has a strong
    influence on her choice. His opinions are especially important when
    he lives in the same household or has regular contact with the
    mother.

-   Because bottlefeeding was the norm for many years, relatives and
    friends are more likely to advise women to bottlefeed than
    breastfeed.

\*Mothers may appreciate hearing the following information:

-   It is positive for mothers to talk to other mothers who are
    breastfeeding or who have breastfed their babies. This includes La
    Leche League meetings, women's church groups or perhaps other
    mothers from the WIC Clinic. Mothers need reassurance of knowing
    someone else who has succeeded at breastfeeding before them.

-   Many fathers are really proud of their baby's mother for providing
    "his" baby with the best. You have a powerful ally if you can win
    over the father.

-   Invite grandmothers and fathers to clinic for the discussion
    sessions. Expose them to other fathers and grandmothers who have
    positive points of view.

-   Remind the mothers that she probably hasn't always done everything
    her mother told her to do. This might be another of those decisions
    she needs to make for herself.

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-   Back when most of us were born, hardly anyone breastfed their babies
    and nobody was around to help. Things are different now. Sometimes
    our mothers think that if we decide to breastfeed, we are telling
    them we think they didn't do a good job of raising us. It is
    important to acknowledge that we know those mothers who bottlefed
    did what they thought was best for their babies. Twenty to thirty
    years ago, doctors thought bottlefeeding was best, but now they know
    breastfeeding is best.

-   There are lots of things to do with babies besides feeding. The
    baby's father or grandmother could be the one who bathes or plays
    with the baby when they get fussy. Sometimes, breastfed babies are
    more playful with their dads than their moms because they associate
    mom with eating. When dad has them, they know something different,
    something fun is coming.

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-4

KEEPING YOUR BABY SAFE BEFORE IT IS BORN

PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION: P-4

**KEEPING YOUR BABY SAFE BEFORE IT IS BORN**

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants will be made aware of avoidable prenatal hazards and of
helpful resources in the community for avoiding those hazards.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Study Guide (follows)

2.  B.S. Worthington-Roberts and S.R. Williams: *Nutrition in Pregnancy
    and Lactation,* 6^th^ edition.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Local community referral list.

2.  Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco: No Friends of the Family

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

Session outline follows.

## PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-4

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Since these topics can make people feel uncomfortable, it is
    not necessary for participants to give their names. Due dates,
    number and ages of other children can be shared instead.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups"

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    session

-   *"How is your pregnancy going?"*

-   *"What are some physical changes you've experienced now that you are
    pregnant?"*

-   *"What do you like best about being pregnant?"*

Questions to increase participant's comfort level with discussing
avoidable hazards:

-   *"What advice have you received about medicines or drugs and
    pregnancy?"*

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-   *"Have you made any changes in your activities now that you are
    pregnant?"*

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-   *"What activities are most appealing to you now that you are
    pregnant?"*

-   *"What activities do you think are good for you and your baby?"*

-   *"What help concerning pregnancy do you need the most?"*

-   *"What do you not like about being pregnant?"*

-   *"Have you heard anything about pregnancy you have been wondering or
    worrying about?"*

-   *"Is there anything about being pregnant you wish was different?"*

-   *"What conflicting or confusing advice have you received about being
    pregnant?"*

-   *"What old wives' tales have you heard about medicines or drugs and
    pregnancy?"*

3)  Specific Topics:

**Knowledge of Harm**

-   *"What have you heard about what a pregnant woman can do that might
    be harmful to her baby before it is born?"*

-   *"What have you heard about:*

-   *drugs (cocaine, speed, heroin, etc.)*

-   *alcohol*

-   *marijuana*

-   *nicotine*

-   *caffeine*

-   *artificial sweeteners*

-   *over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"What have you heard about what pregnant women should do about
    these things?"*

-   *"What have you heard about what pregnant women should not do?"*

-   *"What have you heard about what might happen to the baby when a
    pregnant woman uses:*

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-   *drugs (cocaine, speed, heroin, etc.)*

-   *alcohol*

-   *marijuana*

-   *nicotine*

-   *caffeine*

-   *artificial sweeteners*

-   *over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"What happens to a person's appetite when using:*

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-   *drugs (cocaine, speed, heroin, etc.)*

-   *alcohol*

-   *marijuana*

-   *nicotine*

-   *caffeine*

-   *artificial sweeteners*

-   *over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"How is appetite important to a pregnant woman?"*

**Behavior Change**

-   *"What are some ways that it might be very hard to stop using:*

-   *drugs (cocaine, speed, heroin, etc.)*

-   *alcohol*

-   *marijuana*

-   *nicotine*

-   *caffeine*

-   *artificial sweeteners*

-   *over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"How is it that we can know we are taking a risk but we chose to do
    so anyway?"*

-   *"Can you think of anyone who was pregnant and had problems with the
    baby because of:*

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-   *drugs (cocaine, speed, heroin, etc.)*

-   *alcohol*

-   *marijuana*

-   *nicotine*

-   *caffeine*

-   *artificial sweeteners*

-   *over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"How is it that it can be so easy to give other people advice but
    hard to change ourselves?"*

# Safe Resources for Information for Support and Change

-   *"What can one of us do if she has questions about:*

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-   *drugs (cocaine, speed, heroin, etc.)*

-   *alcohol*

-   *marijuana*

-   *nicotine*

-   *caffeine*

-   *artificial sweeteners*

-   *over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"What have you heard about (local community agencies)?"*

-   *"What have you heard about what can happen to the children of a
    pregnant woman who is having problems with illegal drugs?"*

4)  **Closing the session.**

    -   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

    -   Close the session and thank everyone for coming and sharing with
        the group.

**PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-4**

**KEEPING YOUR ABBY SAFE BEFORE IT IS BORN**

**Study Guide**

# PRENATAL DISCUSSION SESSION P-4

## BACKGROUND INFORMATION

# 

# Smoking Cessation Review

# 

# Risks of Prenatal Smoking...

-   Noenatal death

-   Sudden infant death syndrome (tripled risk)

-   Miscarriage

-   Low birth weight

-   Premature birth

-   Smaller stature

-   Respiratory distress

-   Impaired physical and intellectual development

-   Pneumonia

-   Bronchitis

-   Childhood or adult cancer

-   Ear infections

-   Upper respiratory infections

-   Decrease in lung function

-   Asthma

### Why Quit...

-   Money 1ppd=\$1,000 a year

-   Look and feel healthier

-   Whiter teeth

-   Smell better

-   Premature wrinkles with smoking

-   More energy, easier to breathe

-   Food will smell and taste better

-   Lower risk of heart disease, stroke, chronic bronchitis, emphysema,
    cancer

-   Won't have constant cravings controlling you...where you will go
    smoke

-   Reduce risk of illness -- better able to fight off colds and flu

-   In 1 year, risk of smoking related heart disease is cut in half

-   In 10 years the risk of heart disease and lung cancer is equal to
    that of a non smoker

### Second hand smoke (SIDS)...

-   More harmful to children because lungs and bodies are not fully
    developed

-   Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome, asthma, sinus, ear
    infections, allergies, bronchitis, croup, pneumonia

-   A child will have 2x risk of lung cancer than an adult

\*\*When a cigarette is lit, only 15% is inhaled by the smoker, the
other 85% becomes second hand smoke

### Quitting...

-   Takes an average of 7 quit attempts to stay quit

### First day quit...

-   Cold hands and feet begin to warm up

-   Blood pressure and pulse rate slow down

-   Heart and lungs begin to heal

-   May feel sleepier, more irritable (it will pass)

-   Cravings are common

-   Taste and smell improve in a few days

**BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSION B-1**

**AM I READY TO BREASTFEED?**

**BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSION: B-1**

**AM I READY TO BREASTFEED?**

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC Participants will receive information on how to breastfeed.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Best Start Training Manual Study Guide (Session P-3 study guide)

2.  J. Lauwers, D. Shinskie: *Counseling the Nursing Mother,* 3rd
    edition, Jones & Bartlett, Massachusetts, 2000.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Baby Doll

2.  Appropriate "Best Start" Breastfeeding pamphlets

3.  Breastfeeding is the Best fact sheet

4.  Breast models, examples of breast shells, bras, nursing pads, pumps,
    and other breastfeeding aids.

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

Session outline follows.

**BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSION B-1**

**Session Outline:**

5)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their names, their children's names and ages, their due date if
    pregnant, or other information you think of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups."

6)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    discussion and to elicit clients' concerns, as well as strategies
    for addressing their concerns during the discussion:

> **\*Successful Breastfeeding**

-   *"What do you feel is successful breastfeeding?"*

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-   *"How do you think breastfeeding makes the mother feel?"*

-   *"How does breastfeeding keep your baby healthy?"*

-   *"How long do you think a woman should breastfeed?"*

> **\*Concerns of Breastfeeding the First Few Weeks**

-   *"What are some ways to position or hold your baby while feeding?"*

-   *"How often do you think you should nurse a newborn?"*

-   *"How do you know your baby is hungry?"*

-   *"How do you know your baby is satisfied or full?"*

-   *"When would you not want to give supplements?"*

-   *"What reason other than hunger would your baby want to nurse?"*

-   *"Do you know anyone who had sore nipples?"*

-   *"How can you avoid sore nipples?"*

-   *"What if you had to leave the baby for a short time?"*

-   *"What if you have a c-section?"*

-   *"What if you need medication?"*

-   *"What have you heard about birth control while breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What birth control methods have been recommended to you while
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What do you expect it to be like when you first start to
    breastfeed?"*

-   *"How long do you think it will take for you and your baby to learn
    to breastfeed?"*

-   *"Who are the people that are going to be around you when you
    breastfeed?"*

-   *"What do they think now about your breastfeeding?"*

-   *"How do you think they'll act when you're breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What would you like them to do? How can they help you?"*

> **\*Issues Concerning Doctors, Midwives, Nurses, and Hospitals**

-   *"What have you discussed with your doctor or midwife about
    breastfeeding your baby?"*

-   *"What if you decide to breastfeed and the nurses at the hospital
    give your baby a bottle?"*

-   *"What do you think happens when you decide to "top the baby off"
    with a bottle after breastfeeding?"*

> **\*Prenatal Breast Exam**

-   *"What have you heard about breastfeeding and breast size?"*

-   *"What are some things you have heard that will help prevent sore
    nipples?"*

-   *"Does anyone have (or know someone who has) flat or inverted
    nipples?"*

-   *"What can you do if you have inverted nipples?"*

-   *"How do your breasts feel now that you are pregnant?"*

# \*Closing Questions

-   *"What other information do you need to start breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Who would you call if you had questions or concerns about
    breastfeeding?"*

7)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

**BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSION B-2**

**SUCCESSFUL BREASTFEEDING**

**BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSION: B-2**

**SUCCESSFUL BREASTFEEDING**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

-   "Answers for your New Questions about Breastfeeding"

-   "Sharing your Thoughts and Experiences about Breastfeeding with
    other Mothers"

-   "Update on Breastfeeding"

-   "So, How's it Going? Discussion on How you're Doing with
    Breastfeeding"

-   "Sharing Breastfeeding Joys and Solving Breastfeeding Problems"

**SUMMARY:**

So you've breastfed your baby. Good for you! Many new mothers find that
they have more questions about breastfeeding at this time. Some other
mothers want to share their positive experiences about breastfeeding or
get help from other mothers in solving breastfeeding problems. This
session serves as a discussion group for these concerns and a way for
breastfeeding moms to get support in facing the challenges of
breastfeeding.

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC Participants will receive breastfeeding information and support
through a group discussion.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Best Start Training Manual Study Guide (Session p-3 study guide)

2.  J. Lauwers, D. Shinskie: *Counseling the Nursing Mother,* 3rd
    edition, Jones & Bartlett, Massachusetts, 2000.

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1.  N. Mohrbacher, J. Stock: *The Breastfeeding Answer Book,* revised
    edition, La La Leche League International, Schaumburg, Illinois,
    1997.

2.  R. Lawrence: *Breastfeeding: A Guide for the Medical Profession*,
    5^th^ edition, Mosby, St. Louis, 1999.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Baby Doll

2.  Appropriate "Best Start" Breastfeeding pamphlets

3.  Breastfeeding - Baby's Best Start pamphlet

4.  Breast models, examples of breast shells, bras, nursing pads, pumps,
    and other breastfeeding aids.

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

Session outline follows.

# BREASTFEEDING DISCUSSION SESSION B-2

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their name, their children's names and ages, or any other
    information you can think of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional. Pair-up each participant with a
    partner. Give each partner 3 or 4 minutes of time to talk to the
    other partner about whatever they are thinking, feeling, or
    experiencing about breastfeeding; while one partner talks, the other
    "just" listens and cannot interrupt or respond back verbally. The
    listening partner gives all their attention to listening and
    focusing on what the person talking is saying. Have the partners
    switch their roles, so that each experiences the 3 or 4 minutes as
    both the speaker and the listener.

Then have everyone join back into the group, and ask how they felt about
it, what it was like to be the speaker or the listener, what kinds of
things they talked about and/or what they may have learned from it.

> You can vary this exercise by giving the partners different topics to
> talk about (For example, an abbreviated version of their life story or
> a more specific issue about breastfeeding, etc.) or let them talk
> about anything they want to.

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    session and focus the discussion:

> **\*Neutral Approach**

-   *"How is breastfeeding going?"*

-   *"What did you expect about breastfeeding, and what actually
    happened?"*

-   *"What did you think life would be like with your baby, and what is
    it really like?"*

-   *"How do you feel about breastfeeding so far?"*

-   *"What new breastfeeding experience/occurrence have you had in the
    last month?"*

-   *"What advice have you been given about feeding your baby?"*

> **\*Addressing Positives:** (especially good to use if pregnant women
> attend)

-   *"What made you want to breastfeed?"*

-   *"What are some reasons you think women chose to breastfeed?"*

-   *"What do you think are some ways breastfeeding is good for your
    baby and for you?"*

-   *"What are some good things that are happening with you because
    you're breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What do you like best or enjoy most about breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Can you think of some pleasant surprise you've discovered about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Do you think a mother would really miss something if she decided
    not to nurse?"*

-   *"How has breastfeeding influenced the way you parent your baby?"*

-   *"How does breastfeeding help you understand your baby's needs?"*

-   *"Describe a situation where you were especially glad you were
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What do you as a mother get out of breastfeeding, and how does
    this affect the rest of the family?"*

-   *"How has breastfeeding saved you money?"*

> **\*Addressing Worries or Concerns:**

-   *"What help concerning breastfeeding do you need the most?"*

-   *"Is there anything you don't like about breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Have you heard anything about breastfeeding you have been
    wondering or worrying about?"*

-   *"Is there anything that is concerning or worrying you about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What are some of the reasons some mothers decide not to
    breastfeed?"*

-   *"Is there anything about breastfeeding that you wish you would have
    done differently?"*

-   *"What conflicting or confusing advice have you received on caring
    for your baby?"*

-   *"What old wives tales or myths have you heard about
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What breastfeeding difficulties did you think you might have, and
    what did you do to avoid them?"*

-   *"What is the worst advice you received about breastfeeding?"*

3)  Examples of open-ended questions that can help focus the group
    discussion on a topic area or specific issue:

> **\*Early Breastfeeding:**

-   *"How often do you breastfeed?"*

-   *"How can you tell that your baby is getting enough milk?"*

-   *"What are some of the ways your baby lets you know he/she is
    getting enough?"*

-   *"How have you handled leaking?"*

-   *"How do you hold your baby to breastfeed?"*

-   *"Have you tried other breastfeeding positions?"*

-   *"How does let-down feel to you? What helps to let your milk let
    down?"*

-   *"What was the best piece of advice someone gave you for the early
    weeks of breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What have you done or are doing to help breastfeeding get off to a
    good start?"*

-   *"What made you anxious about breastfeeding in the early days?"*

-   *"Who gave you support when you were nursing for the very first
    time? What did they do or say that helped?"*

-   *"What have you heard about breastfeeding a baby that is
    jaundiced?"*

-   *"What special needs did you and your baby have at first?"*

-   *"How many had a less-than-perfect beginning to breastfeeding that
    turned out all right in the end? Could you please share this with
    us?"*

-   *"Is there something you did while you were pregnant that helped
    make the early weeks of breastfeeding easier?"*

-   *"How have you or others you've talked to handled baby's growth
    spurts?"*

-   *"At what ages has your baby had a growth spurt?"*

> **\*Breast Care/Sore Nipples:**

-   *"How do your breasts feel when you're nursing?"*

-   *"What have you heard about breastfeeding and breast size?"*

-   *"What do you feel is the best way to take care of your breasts
    while pregnant and breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What have you heard about:*

-   *putting ointments or lotions on your nipples?*

-   *putting soap on your nipples?*

-   *"preparing" your nipples?*

-   *drying out, or exposing nipples to sunlight?"*

-   *"Has anyone used breast pads? How did this help you? Can you
    suggest certain types to use?"*

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-   *"Has anyone experienced sore nipples? Can you tell us about it and
    what you found to be helpful?"*

-   *"What are some things that will help prevent sore nipples?"*

-   *"How about breast engorgement? What helps prevent and relieve it?"*

-   *"Does anyone have (or know someone who has) inverted or flat
    nipples? If so,:*

-   *how and when did you know your nipples were this way?*

-   *what kinds of things can help make breastfeeding easier?"*

-   *"What have you heard about breast infections?"*

> **\*Emotional/Family-Oriented Issues:**

-   *"What kind of things can a new mother do to pamper/take care of
    herself?"*

-   *"What are some ways for a new mother to relax?"*

-   *"What do you do when you get really worn out and tired?"*

-   *"Can you share a way to simplify a household task, such as the
    cooking, laundry, shopping or cleaning?"*

-   *"Have you had any problems nursing with others around?"*

-   *"How does your family feel about your breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What kinds of support for breastfeeding are you getting at home?"*

-   *"What does your family expect of the new baby? and of you?"*

-   *"How does your family want to feed the baby?"*

-   *"Has anyone encouraged you to give your baby formula or baby food?
    How have you handled that?"*

-   *"How has your family (or husband) helped make breastfeeding easier
    for you?"*

-   *"How do you (and your husband) feel about having the baby in bed
    with you?"*

> **\*Miscellaneous Management Issues:**

-   *"How does your baby let you know he/she is hungry?"*

-   *"What are some reasons why babies cry?"*

-   *"What happens when your baby cries?"*

-   *"What are some techniques you've used or heard about to soothe a
    fussy or colicky baby?"*

-   *"What have you heard about using birth control while
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What birth control methods have been recommended to you to use
    while you are still breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Has anyone heard that you can't get pregnant as long as you're
    breastfeeding? What do you think about that?"*

-   *"If you've had problems with breastfeeding, how have you handled
    them?"*

-   *"If anyone has had a problem such as a plugged duct, breast
    infection, an illness, etc., can you share how you handled it?"*

> **\*Alternate Feedings/Expressing Breastmilk:**

-   *"What do breastfeeding mothers do when they're going to be away
    from the baby during a time when the baby will need to be fed?"*

-   *"In what kind of situations might mothers need to express their
    milk?"*

-   *"How do you feel about leaving your baby with someone else (such as
    a caregiver, husband, grandmother, etc.)? What do you think will
    happen?"*

-   *"What do you do when you want (or need) to leave your baby
    behind?"*

-   *"What are some ways of expressing breastmilk?"*

-   *"What have you heard about:*

-   *hand-expressing breastmilk?*

-   *breastpumps?*

-   *using formula?*

-   *giving the baby a bottle?"*

-   *"Which method of expressing milk has worked best for you or someone
    you know?"*

-   *"Where have you been able to find breastpumps? How much do they
    cost?"*

-   *"If you have ever expressed milk, about how much were you able to
    express at one time?"*

-   *"Can anyone describe what frozen breastmilk looks like?"*

-   *"How long can breastmilk be stored in the refrigerator? In the
    freezer?"*

-   *"What are some ways to thaw out frozen breastmilk?"*

**\*Substance Use/Abuse**

-   *"What are some of the things you've heard that get passed into
    breastmilk?"*

-   *"What are the effects of (discuss substances such as cocaine,
    crack, speed, heroin, alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, caffeine, and
    over-the-counter medicines) on babies who are breastfed?"*

-   *"What have you heard about using drugs while breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What kinds of things would you consider to be drugs?"*

-   *""What have you heard about mothers who:*

-   *drink beer?*

-   *wine?*

-   *hard liquor?"*

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-   *"How do you feel about mothers who:*

-   *smoke cigarettes?*

-   *smoke marijuana?*

-   *take pills?*

-   *use cocaine or crack?*

-   *use other drugs?*

-   *take prescribed or over-the-counter medicines?"*

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-   *"What about breastfeeding mothers who do these things?"*

-   *"What is a safe amount of: beer? wine? hard liquor?" (and so on, as
    above...)*

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-   *"What have you heard you should do if you get sick? What kinds of
    medicines do you think are okay to take while breastfeeding?"*

> **\*Breastfeeding Older Infants:**

-   *"When do you think you might stop breastfeeding? What are your
    reasons?"*

-   *"When do you feel is a good time to wean a baby?"*

-   *"When is a child too old to be breastfed? Reasons?"*

-   *"What do you know about what others have done (family, friends,
    neighbors...)?"*

-   *"Does anyone have any suggestions about weaning?"*

-   *"What have you heard are some of the differences between weaning
    from a bottle and from the breast?"*

-   *"How do you handle nursing in public?"*

-   *"What have you found to be advantages/drawbacks about nursing an
    older infant?"*

-   *"What happens when a nursing baby gets teeth?"*

-   *"Has anyone here ever tandem nursed (nursing both an infant and the
    older sibling) or known anyone who has? What can you tell us about
    it?"*

> **\*Mother's Nutritional Needs:**

-   *"What have you heard about:*

-   *what breastfeeding mothers must eat?*

-   *what breastfeeding mothers cannot eat?"*

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-   *"What have you heard are good foods for breastfeeding moms?"*

-   *"How does the food a mother eats affect her milk supply?"*

-   *"How do you feel about what you are while you were pregnant?"*

-   *"How do you feel about what you're eating now; what you'd like to
    eat?"*

-   *"What happens to you if you're not eating right? How does it affect
    your baby?"*

-   *"Has anyone heard of certain food you're not supposed to eat while
    breastfeeding?"*

-   *"Can anyone share some nutritious types of foods that are easy to
    fix and fit well into your schedule?"*

-   *"How do you handle it if your baby seems fussy after eating? Do you
    think something you ate might have caused this?"*

-   *"How much...*

-   *milk*

-   *fruits and vegetables*

-   *meat/protein*

-   *grains*

> *...should you eat?"*

-   *"How do you feel about drinking milk?"*

-   *"What have you heard about dieting while breastfeeding?"*

4)  Closing the Session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion

-   Close the meeting and thank everyone for coming and sharing with the
    group

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION PP-1**

**TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF, AFTER THE BABY**

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION: PP-1**

**TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF, AFTER THE BABY IS BORN**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

"The New Me"

"Body Beautiful"

**OBJECTIVE:**

The client will set a goal to take care of herself and to manage the
change in her life as a result of the new baby.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Study Guide (follows)

2.  R.L. Duyff: *The American Dietetic Association's Complete Food and
    Nutrition Guide*", Chronimed Publishing, Minneapolis, 1996.

3.  Eisenberg, Hathaway, and Merckoff: *What to Expect the First Year*,
    Workman, New York, 1989.

**METHOD:**

Involves participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Foods for You After You Deliver

2.  The Healthy Weigh

3.  Suggestions from Nutrition Services Tennessee Department of Health
    To Decrease Fat Intake

4.  Why Every Woman Needs Folic Acid

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

Session outline follows.

# POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION PP-1

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    also share with the group their baby's age, or gender.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups.

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    session and focus the discussion:

-   *"What has been one tough situation you've had since the baby was
    born?"*

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-   *"What is one change that has happened as a result of becoming a
    mom?"*

-   *"What is one thing that you have done for yourself since the baby
    was born?"*

-   *'What activities have you attempted while holding the baby?"*

-   *"What do you think is the difference between dieting and healthy
    eating?"*

> Team off and talk for one minute about yourselves and then introduce
> your partner to the group.

3)  Continue the discussion by focusing on any of the following topics:

-   Weight management: selecting a weight control program

-   Food for stress management

-   Getting a good night's rest

-   Beauty and the Beast: food and self-esteem

-   Food for the blues

-   Food on the run: returning back to work or school

-   Exercising with the baby

-   Family planning and your diet

4)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION PP-1**

**TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF, AFTER THE BABY**

**Study Guide**

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION: PP-1**

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION**

### A Good Night's Rest

Naps taken at the same time baby naps will become important. Getting
enough rest ensures a better milk supply for breastfeeding. Remind moms
that night feedings are important and a common pattern for babies. Night
feedings do not mean that the baby is not getting enough to eat or that
cereal needs to be introduced.

Take the opportunity to rest while the baby is breastfeeding or
bottle-feeding. Not only does this provide an opportunity to rest, but
also for bonding. Allow others to help with nighttime feedings, like
going to get the baby.

# Self Esteem and Postpartum Blues

With the birth of the baby the focus switches from the mom to the baby.
This frequently causes the mom to experience feelings such as being part
of the background, feelings of inadequacy, feelings of guilt, mourning
for the "old you", unhappiness over your appearance, and lack of
support. Things for them to do include:

-   Getting out of the house.

-   Asking for help with the house.

-   Asking for help with the baby or other children.

-   Talking about their feelings of not being appreciated.

-   Looking their best so they can feel their best.

-   Getting active.

-   Making some time for themselves.

-   Getting together with other new moms they know and comparing their
    new "way of life".

**Exercising After the Birth of a Baby**

If a woman had a normal delivery and is in good health, they can usually
follow a simple exercise program. If they have any concerns, recommend
they ask their physician.

Babies are great for exercising. Most babies love lying on mommy's chest
during calisthenics sessions; snuggling in a baby carrier while she
pedals a stationary bike, works a rowing machine, skiing machine, or
treadmill; and being pushed in a stroller or carriage while mommy walks
or jogs. Infants should not be bounced while you jog or propped up on a
bike if the baby can't sit independently.

Guidelines for safe and sane exercise:

-   Stick to a schedule.

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-   Don't rush.

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-   Start slowly.

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-   Avoid competitive sports.

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-   Do muscle toning exercises.

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-   Do five minutes of warm ups.

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-   Cool down at the end of the sessions.

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-   Be careful not to get up too quickly because of possible dizziness.

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-   Avoid vigorous exercise in hot weather or when you have a fever.

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-   Drink plenty of fluids before and after (water is best).

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-   Stop exercising immediately and notify your doctor if you experience
    any of the following symptoms:

+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   pain               | -   faintness                               |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   dizziness          | -   blurred vision                          |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   pubic pain         | -   difficulty walking                      |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   nausea             | -   shortness of breath                     |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   back pain          |                                             |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   palpitations (your |                                             |
|     heart seems to     |                                             |
|     tremble, flutter,  |                                             |
|     or race)           |                                             |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+
| -   Sudden increase in |                                             |
|     vaginal bleeding   |                                             |
|     (if brown or pink  |                                             |
|     lochia turns red   |                                             |
|     after exercise,    |                                             |
|     you are over doing |                                             |
|     it).               |                                             |
+------------------------+---------------------------------------------+

**Family Planning**

Ask a Nurse or Nurse Practitioner to help with this session, if
possible. One of the most important things for new moms to think about
is that they can get pregnant before they have a period. The body needs
to recover from a pregnancy before starting another one. There are many
adjustments a woman must go through when a baby enters the world, and
time for this is important. Teenager's bodies usually need longer for
recovery because they are still growing and need adequate quantities of
nutrients.

Some methods of birth control could affect nutritional status. Please
check with Nurse Practitioners for any updated information.

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION PP-2**

**POSTPARTUM NUTRITION NEEDS AND**

**THE IMPORTANCE OF FOLIC ACID**

POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION: PP-2

**POSTPARTUM NUTRITION NEEDS AND**

**THE IMPORTANCE OF FOLIC ACID**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

"What is Folic Acid and Why is it Important?"

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants will discuss the importance of folic acid and how it
relates to positive birth outcomes. The participants will discuss food
sources of folic acid.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Study Guide (follows)

2.  MMWR, September 13, 2002 (10 year progress report since the 1992 PHS
    recommendation regarding folic acid and prevention of birth
    defects.)

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Why Every Woman Needs Folic Acid Pamphlet

2.  Folic Acid Everyday -- Make it a Habit bookmark

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

Session outline follows.

# POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION PP-2

**Session Outline:**

8)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups."

9)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    session and focus the discussion:

-   *"What do you know about folic acid?"*

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-   *"Do you currently take any vitamin or mineral supplements? Which
    ones? How often?"*

-   *"What happens when you don't get enough folic acid?"*

-   *"Who needs folic acid? And when?"*

-   *"Why is it so important for women to take folic acid before getting
    pregnant?"*

-   *"How do you know how much folic acid is in different foods? Or in
    vitamin pills?"*

-   *"If you eat breakfast, what do you usually have to eat?"*

-   *"Which of the WIC approved breakfast cereals have 100% of the daily
    value for folic acid that you need?"*

-   *"Can you suggest different ways to get enough folic acid
    everyday?"*

-   *"Can anyone suggest some foods that are good sources of folic
    acid?"*

-   *"Does anyone have any quick and easy ideas for using folic acid
    rich foods at mealtime and/or for snacks?"*

-   *"Can you suggest foods or snacks that you like that are also good
    sources of folic acid?"*

-   *"What kinds of things help you remember to take a vitamin pill
    every day? Or eat a breakfast cereal with 100% daily value for folic
    acid every day?"*

-   *"What happened before most people knew they needed more folic acid
    than they get from diet alone?"*

-   *"Why do some people say they won't take vitamin pills?"*

10) Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION PP-2**

**POSTPARTUM NUTRITION NEEDS AND**

**THE IMPORTANCE OF FOLIC ACID**

**Study Guide**

**POSTPARTUM DISCUSSION SESSION: PP-2**

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION**

**What Is Folic Acid and Why Is It Important?**

Folic Acid is a B vitamin necessary for DNA production and cell
division. It is known to help prevent certain birth defects, known as
neural tube defects (NTDs). Spina bifida and anencephaly are the two
most common types of NTDs.

Folic acid is sometimes called Folate. Technically, folic acid refers to
the synthetic form of the vitamin and folate refers to the form found
naturally in food. Folic acid has greater bioavailability.

Folic acid also assists blood cell production --important during normal
health as well as in pregnancy to avoid anemia, and it may help with
normal placental function and fetal growth. Recently, the contribution
which folic acid makes towards health maintenance has been recognized in
research demonstrating a possible role in preventing heart disease,
stroke, and certain cancers.

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends that all women of
reproductive age consume 400 mcg of synthetic folic acid daily, in
addition to eating a healthy diet.

The recommendation is for **all** women of childbearing age because:

-   NTDs usually occur in the baby before the mother even knows she is
    pregnant.

-   Many pregnancies are unplanned.

-   It is difficult to get adequate folic acid from diet alone.

**Where? Oh! Where is Folic Acid?**

Women should eat foods naturally rich in folate, such as dark green
leafy vegetables, orange juice, dried peas, beans, and lentils; however,
taking a daily dietary supplement (a multivitamin or pill containing 400
mcg folic acid) is an easy and effective way to enrich the diet.
Additionally, many WIC approved cereals are fortified with 100% of the
recommended daily value of folic acid, providing an excellent option to
supplements.

#  In A Nutshell.........To Help Prevent Birth Defects

**Who?** All women who can become pregnant, even if they do not plan to!

**What?** 400 mcg of Folic Acid as a vitamin supplement or in a multiple
vitamin every day. Or daily consumption of a breakfast cereal fortified
with 100% folic acid.

**When?** Before becoming pregnant. This is because the neural tube
forms before the end of the 4^th^ week of pregnancy -- before most women
even know they are pregnant.

**Where?** Folic acid can be purchased at drug stores and grocery
stores.

**Why?** To potentially reduce the incidence of neural tube defects
(spina bifida) by 50-70%.

**How?** Taking a daily Folic Acid supplement or eating a breakfast
cereal fortified with 100% folic acid are easy and effective ways to
increase the amount of folic acid in the diet. Research clearly tells us
now that the old teaching of vitamins being "unnecessary" is no longer
true.

**INFANT DISCUSSION SESSION I-1**

**TALKING ABOUT YOUR BABY**

**INFANT DISCUSSION SESSION: I-1**

**TALKING ABOUT YOUR BABY**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

"Development in the First Year"

"Tell Us How Your Baby is Doing"

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants/caregivers will receive information and support on
nutrition and infant development.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  *Ellyn Satter series.*

2.  M. Story, K. Holt, D. Sofka, eds.: *Bright Futures in Practice:
    Nutrition,*

> 2^nd^ edition, National Center for Education in Maternal and Child
> Health, Arlington, VA, 2002.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Feeding your Baby: Birth to 4 Months

2.  Feeding Your Baby: 4 months to 1 year

3.  Video: "A Healthier Baby by Breastfeeding" by Linda Smith, IBCLC

4.  Spoon Feed for a Healthy Start

5.  The ABC's of Teaching Your Baby to Use a Cup

6.  Oral Health for Infants and Children

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

Session outline follows.

## INFANT DISCUSSION SESSION I-1

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups"

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    session. For example:

-   *"What concerns do you have about feeding the baby?"*

-   *"How did your mother feed you?"*

-   *"Should you feed your baby differently than your mother fed you?"*

-   *"What would be the best advice you could give a new mother on
    infant feeding?"*

3)  Possible Infant Discussion Topics (choose any of the following):

> \*This is just a listing of topics. To focus the session, use
> open-ended questions relating to each topic. A list of questions
> follows.

-   Breastfeeding

-   Colic

-   Cow's Milk

-   Cultural Feeding Practices

-   Cup

-   Dental Care (bottle abuse)

-   Economical & Resourceful Food (Shopping) Practices

-   Emotional Development

-   Finger Foods

-   Food Allergies

-   Food Groups

-   Homemade Baby Food

-   Food Intake (Quantity)

-   Food Preparation

-   Food Safety

-   Immunizations

-   Infant Development

-   Infant Instincts & Reflexes

-   Infant States of Sleep & Wakefulness

-   Interpreting & Acknowledging Infant Feeding Cues

-   Mixing & Storage of Formula

-   Overfeeding

-   Parenting and Feeding Behaviors

-   Premature Infants

-   Preventing Illness

-   Safety and Feeding your Child

-   Sick Baby

-   Special Needs Infants

-   Teething

-   Transitional Feeding

-   Water Supply Safety & Fluoride Levels

-   Weight Gain

4)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Close the session and thank everyone for coming and sharing with the
    group.

**Specific Infant Discussion Topics:**

> **\*Breastfeeding:**

-   *"What do you think is the best way to feed your baby?"*

-   *"Are all women able to breastfeed their babies?"*

-   *"What might prevent a woman from breastfeeding?"*

-   *"What kinds of special help do all new mothers and babies need?"*

-   *"How can other family members best help you with the new baby?"*

-   *"How are these needs different for breastfeeding mothers and
    infants as compared to bottlefed mothers and infants?"*

-   *"How are they the same?"*

> **\*Colic:**

-   *"What is colic?"*

-   *"What can be done to help an infant with colic symptoms?"*

-   *"What are some possible causes of colic?"*

> **\*Cow's Milk:**

-   *"What age would you recommend cow's milk and why?"*

-   *"What can happen if a baby is given cow's milk too early?"*

-   *"How does cow's milk differ from breastmilk or formula?"*

> **\*Cultural Feeding Practices:**

-   *"Are there any family traditions that have been passed down from
    one generation to the next concerning feeding your baby?"*

-   *"What are some feeding practices you use with your child that have
    been influenced by your family customs?" (For example: herbal teas
    to relieve an upset stomach.)*

> **\*Cup**

-   *"When should infants start drinking from a cup?"*

-   *"Why do you think it's important that infants learn to drink from a
    cup?"*

-   *"What are some ways parents can encourage babies to switch from a
    bottle to a cup?"*

-   *"How long did it take your baby to become skilled at drinking from
    a cup?"*

-   *"What are the pros and cons of having an older child drinking from
    a bottle?"*

> **\*Dental Care (Bottle Abuse):**

-   *"How many teeth do each of your babies have?"*

-   *"When should care of baby's teeth begin?"*

-   *"How do you clean your baby's teeth and gums?"*

-   *"Give examples of things that should not be put in your baby's
    bottle."*

> **\*Economical & Resourceful Food (Shopping) Practices:**

-   *"What cost more, larger or smaller quantities?"*

-   *"Do convenience foods cost more?"*

-   *"Why should you make a shopping list?"*

-   *"Can you use coupons with your WIC Check?"*

-   *"Are generic brands not as good as other "name" brands?"*

-   *"When is the best time to go shopping?"*

-   *"Do you read food labels? Why or why not?"*

> **\*Emotional Development:**

-   *"What do you think of when you hear the phrase "emotional
    development?"*

-   *"What do you think determines how well your baby develops
    emotionally?"*

-   *"When do you hug, smile, talk or sing to your baby? Why are these
    activities important?"*

-   *"What toys does your baby play with?"*

-   *"When do you read to your baby?"*

-   *"What other persons in your family interact with your baby? How
    does your baby respond to these people?"*

-   *"What is the atmosphere like at meal times in your house? How does
    this atmosphere affect how well your child eats?"*

-   *"What do you say to your child when he/she is doing something
    wrong?"*

-   *"What are some things you do if your child does something real
    good?"*

-   *"When your child feels bad, what do you do to cheer him/her up?"*

-   *"How can you tell when your child is enjoying something?"*

-   *"When you were younger, what did your parent or guardian do that
    make you feel important and special?"*

**\*Finger Foods:**

-   *"When does a baby show readiness for finger foods?"*

-   *"What would you consider a finger food?"*

-   *"Why would you want your baby to eat finger foods?"*

-   *"What would be an example of some good finger foods and some
    not-so-good finger foods?"*

> **\*Food Allergies:**

-   *"When are food allergies most common?"*

-   *"What are some symptoms of food allergies?"*

-   *"How long does it take for a reaction to take place after eating a
    certain food?"*

-   *"What are some of the foods that cause allergies?"*

-   *"How are food allergies diagnosed?"*

-   *"What kind of help do parents need in order to help their infants
    with food allergies?"*

> **\*Food Groups:**

-   *"What are the different food groups?"*

-   *"Why do we need to eat foods from all the different food groups?"*

-   *"What nutrients are found in the bread group? The vegetable group?
    The fruit group? The milk group? The meat group?"*

-   *"What foods in the cereal, meat, dairy, fruit and vegetable groups
    does your baby eat now?"*

-   *"Where do foods like peanut butter, lard, candy, and ketchup fit
    in? Should you give these foods to your baby? Are there other foods
    that shouldn't be given to a baby?"*

-   *"What does your baby eat for snacks?"*

> **\*Home-made Baby Food:**

-   *"What are the advantages and disadvantages of making your own baby
    food?"*

-   *"What are some utensils you need for making baby food?"*

-   *"Why is it important to clean all utensils and your hands before
    preparing foods?"*

-   *"How do you make baby food?" (For example: how do you make the meat
    you and your family are having for dinner into something your infant
    can eat?)*

> **\*Food Intake:**

-   *"How much should an infant eat?"*

-   *"What determines how much an infant should eat?"*

-   *"What is the starting point in determining infant food intake?"*

-   *"What does a baby expend energy on?"*

> **\*Food Preparation:**

-   *"How long can you keep an opened jar of baby food? How should you
    store it?"*

-   *"How do you store homemade baby food? How long can you keep
    homemade baby food in the refrigerator? In the freezer?"*

-   *"If your baby eats directly from the container of baby food
    (instead of eating the food from a clean dish), what should be done
    with any food leftover in the jar? Why?"*

-   *"Should microwave ovens be used to warm baby foods? Why or why
    not?"*

> **\*Food Safety:**

-   *"What do you think of when you hear the phrase "Food Safety?"*

-   *"Why is it important to buy undented cans of food?"*

-   *"How can you safely defrost foods?"*

-   *"Why is it important to sterilize infant bottles and feeding
    utensils?"*

-   *"Why is it important to keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot?"*

-   *"How do you know when fish, chicken, or red meats are cooked
    thoroughly? Why is this important?"*

> **\*Immunizations:**

-   *"Why does your baby need immunizations?"*

-   *"How do you know when your baby needs to be immunized?"*

-   *"What are some side effects (reactions) to immunizations?"*

-   *"What should you do about these side effects?"*

-   *"How painful is the injection to the baby?"*

> **\*Infant Development:**

-   *"What types of skills does a baby develop in his/her first year?"*

-   *"When do these skills develop?"*

-   *"How did you feel when your baby learns new skills?"*

-   *"What can parents do to help their infants develop the appropriate
    skills and at the appropriate pace?"*

> **\*Infant Instincts and Reflexes:**

-   *"What reflexes are babies born with?"*

-   *"What is the rooting reflex?"*

-   *"Can infants focus on objects? On moving objects?"*

-   *"Can infants tell their mother's voice from the voices of other
    women? Have you noticed this with your infant?"*

-   *"Can infants distinguish their mother's smell from that of other
    women?"*

-   *"Can infants tell the difference between salty, sweet, bitter and
    sour tastes? Have you noticed this with your infant?"*

> **\*Infant States of Sleep and Wakefulness:**

-   *"What does your baby look like when asleep? Is his/her breathing
    regular or irregular? Does your baby move a lot?"*

-   *"How long does your baby sleep each day?"*

-   *"How long is your baby awake each day?"*

-   *"Has the time that your baby sleeps and is awake changed as he/she
    has gotten older?"*

> **\*Interpreting & Acknowledging Infant Feeding Cues:**

-   *"How do you communicate with your baby?"*

-   *"How does your baby communicate with you?"*

-   *"How do you know when your baby needs to:*

-   *be changed?*

-   *be fed?*

-   *stop being fed?*

-   *be cuddled?*

-   *sleep?"*

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-   *"What might happen if an infant's messages are ignored?"*

-   *"Why is understanding and responding to your infant's messages
    important?"*

-   *"What does it feel like to be able to know what your baby wants or
    is trying to tell you? What does it feel like when you can't
    understand what your baby is trying to tell you?"*

-   *"How does knowing what your baby is trying to tell you help during
    feeding?"*

-   *"What is a good way to respond to a crying baby?"*

> **\*Mixing & Storage of Formula:**

-   *"What happens if you overfeed your baby?"*

-   *"How can overfeeding happen?"*

-   *"What do you think about your baby's weight? Too fat? Too thin? OK?
    Why?"*

-   *Who can you ask to find out if your baby is too fat or too thin?"*

-   *"What are some things you can do to avoid over or underfeeding your
    baby?"*

-   *"When your baby does not want to eat anymore at feeding time, but
    he's still got some formula or food left, what should you do?"*

> **\*Parenting and Feeding Behaviors:**

-   *"What are some of the enjoyable parts of parenting?"*

-   *"What are some of the difficult parts of parenting?"*

-   *"What do you do to handle the more difficult, or frustrating parts
    of parenting?"*

-   *"What positive or happy experiences have you had feeding your
    baby?"*

-   *"What negative or difficult experiences have you had feeding your
    baby?"*

-   *"What habits, good or bad, do you as a parent feel that you or
    others have that influence your baby's lifelong eating habits?"*

> **\*Premature Infants:**

-   *"What would be some special concerns you have for feeding a
    premature infant?"*

-   *"What are some challenges you've had in feeding your premature
    infant?"*

> **\*Preventing Illness:**

-   *"What are some preventative actions that you can take to keep your
    child from getting sick?"*

-   *"How many immunizations has your child gotten so far? Why are these
    important?"*

-   *"How often do you take your child to the doctor?"*

-   *"How does smoke from others affect your baby? What can you do to
    protect your child from this smoke (passive smoke)?"*

-   *"Why is it important to thoroughly cook meats, especially
    chicken?"*

-   *"How can you tell if chicken is cooked thoroughly?"*

-   *"If you are sick, what are some things you can do to keep your
    child from catching your illness?"*

> **\*Safety and Feeding Your Child:**

-   *"When you were pregnant, what were some things you did to make sure
    your baby had a safe environment inside of you?"*

-   *"Have you baby-proofed your home? If so, how?"*

-   *"What have you learned about infant safety now that you're a
    parent? What safety advice would you give other new parents if you
    could?"*

-   *"Why are car seats necessary every time your infant travels in a
    car?"*

-   *"What kind of car seat do you have? Do you put it in the front or
    back seat? To what age should children ride in car seats?"*

> **\*Sick Baby:**

-   *"How long should you wait before calling a doctor about a fever,
    rash, or bowel abnormality?"*

-   *"When else should you call the doctor?"*

-   *"What is a normal temperature and when is a fever dangerous?"*

-   *"What are some common symptoms of sick infants?"*

> **\*Special Needs Infant:**

-   *"What are some concerns you have about your baby's health and
    feeding?"*

-   *"What are some of the challenges of feeding a special needs
    child?"*

-   *"Where can you get information or help on feeding a special needs
    child?"*

> **\*Teething:**

-   *"What are some signs that your baby is teething?"*

-   *"What have you heard about teething causing fever or other
    infections?"*

-   *"What can you do to make teething less painful for your infant?"*

> **\*Transitional Feeding:**

-   *"What is transitional feeding?"*

-   *"When are babies ready for solid foods? What skills should babies
    have before they should be given sold foods?"*

-   *"What's a good first solid food for babies?"*

-   *"In what order should other foods be given?"*

-   *"What are finger foods? When is a baby ready for finger foods?"*

-   *"What are some examples of finger foods that could cause choking?"*

-   *"What's the best way to introduce new foods to babies?"*

-   *"What are some signs that your child may be allergic to a food?
    What should you do?"*

-   *"What do babies (under 1 year old) need in addition to eating solid
    foods?"*

-   *"Why should babies be given a variety of foods?"*

-   *"Why should you only start 1 new food at a time when introducing
    new foods to your baby?"*

-   *"What are some foods that shouldn't be given to an infant?"*

-   *"What advice would you give to other parents about transitional
    feeding? What worked well for you? What didn't work well?"*

> **\*Water Supply Safety and Fluoride Levels:**

-   *"What is your main source of water?"*

-   *"What does safe water mean to you?"*

-   *"Has anyone had their water tested to determine if it's safe?"*

-   *"How did you go about having it tested?"*

-   *"What minerals does your water contain?"*

-   *"How can you kill bacteria in your water to make it safer?"*

-   *"What happens to minerals when water is boiled?"*

-   *"Is bottled water safe? What is distilled water?"*

-   *"Does your water have fluoride in it? Why do cities add fluoride to
    the water supply?"*

-   *"Why is it important to know if your water is fluoridated?"*

> **\*Weight Gain:**

-   *"What is appropriate weight gain for infants?"*

-   *"What factors will influence birth weight?"*

-   *"What factors will influence infant weight gain?"*

-   *"How can you tell if your baby is gaining enough or too much
    weight*

**CHILD DISCUSSION SESSION C-1**

**FEELING GOOD BY EATING RIGHT**

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION: C-1**

**FEELING GOOD BY EATING RIGHT**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

"Healthy Eating, Ages 2-5"

> "Kid Power"
>
> "Growing Healthy Youngsters"
>
> "Sensible Eating During Childhood"

**OBJECTIVE:**

WIC participants/caregivers will receive information on childhood
feeding issues through a group discussion.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  *Ellyn Satter series.*

2.  M. Story, K. Holt, D. Sofka, eds.: *Bright Futures in Practice:
    Nutrition,*

> 2^nd^ edition, National Center for Education in Maternal and Child
> Health, Arlington, VA, 2002.

**METHOD:**

> Involves participants in a facilitated group discussion. For this
> particular session, several "Alternative Methods" are listed following
> the session outline.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  The Strength of Iron

2.  Foods for Your Child 1-3 Years

3.  Foods for Your Child 4-6 Years

4.  Watching Your Child's Weight

5.  Protect Your Family from Lead

6.  Oral Health for Infants and Children

7.  Helping Your Child Gain Weight

8.  5 A Day\...For Better Health!! NutraNote

9.  Is Your Child A Picky Eater?

10. Food Guide Pyramid

11. Milk Recipe Book

12. Cheese Recipe Book

13. Egg Recipe Book

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

> Session outline follows.

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION C-1**

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their names, their children's names and ages, or other
    information you think of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups."

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    discussion and to elicit clients' concerns, as well as strategies
    for addressing their concerns during the discussion:

-   *"Has anyone heard about the Food Pyramid?"*

-   *"How do you try to work variety into your diet?"*

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-   *"How do the portion sizes you receive in restaurants compare with
    those you usually eat at home?"*

-   *"What are the barriers you see to eating a wider variety of
    foods?"*

-   *"What role does variety play in the diet?"*

-   *"If you could have more time or money to spend on your diet, what
    would you choose and why?"*

-   *"What can you do when you eat away from home to try to follow the
    Food Pyramid?"*

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-   *"What creative ways have you used to work more fruits and
    vegetables into your children's' diets?*

-   *"When you pick a restaurant to go to, what is important?"*

3)  If needed, help refocus the discussion on any of the following topic
    areas or specific issues:

-   **Food Pyramid**

-   Servings sizes

-   Foods within the Pyramid

-   Pyramid review

-   Leader nutrients

-   Variety

-   Barriers to Following the Pyramid

-   Expense

-   Time

-   Cooking Skills

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-   **Points of Purchase**

-   Fast Foods and Restaurants

-   Being away from home

-   Quick, simple recipes

-   Plan your leftovers

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-   **Smart Buying** (See alternative method 1, following)

-   Coupons

-   Brand names

-   Impulse buying

-   Unit pricing

-   Where to shop

-   Reading the ads

-   Nutrition Labels

-   Meal Planning

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-   **Self Esteem Exercise**

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-   Define yourself as a healthy eater.

4)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

ALTERNATIVE METHOD #1 FOR SESSION C-1:

The weekly grocery ad flyer is a great way to plan menus and assist the
client in staying within a budget.

The weekly grocery flyer can be used to present The Food Guide Pyramid
in a practical way. Here are some questions to help guide the discussion
about food groups, planning menus, and family eating goals:

-   *"What are some foods on the grocery sale flyer that are included in
    the bread & cereal group, the milk group, the fruit group, the
    vegetable group, and the meat group?"*

-   *"What foods do you think are an especially good value?"*

-   *"How much do you need to buy to feed your family a serving size?"*

-   *"What are some foods on the Pyramid that your family likes and how
    do you serve them?"*

-   *"How do you normally plan your family menus?"*

-   *"Compare snack food with fruits and vegetables. Show how expensive
    the snack foods are per serving."*

ALTERNATIVE METHOD #2 FOR SESSION C-1:

"Can you help me?"

These case studies are examples of situations our participants find
themselves in. By solving these case studies, they may find possible
solutions to some of their food-related questions.

Note: The following case study may be used or participants may want to
give their own example.

# CASE STUDY 1

My family eats a lot of hamburger and starches because I can't afford to
buy leaner cuts of meat to feed seven people. We also have started
relying on snack foods such as potato chips because it is cheaper than
cheese and Kool-Aid because it is cheaper than apple juice. I don't have
time to analyze menus, make shopping lists and hop from store to store
for special sales. Nor do I have time to prepare elaborate meals. What
can I do?

Topic leading questions:

-   *"What are other meats and high protein foods that are priced about
    the same as hamburger?"*

-   *"What are some recipes that your family prepares with these high
    protein foods?"*

-   *"How can we make hamburger less fatty? How can we reduce the fat
    content when we prepare hamburger and other meats?"*

-   *"What other recipes can be fixed with hamburger for variety?"*

-   *"Are starches such as potatoes, rice, noodles, and tortillas good
    for us? Why or why not?"*

-   *"What are some other snack foods that cost less than potato
    chips?"*

-   *"What are some other beverages that a child could have with
    snacks?"*

# CASE STUDY 2

I want to feed my kids aged 3 and 6 a "power packed" dinner or at least
a balanced one. They eat breakfast and lunch at the baby sitters and
when they get home with me they are starved. I don't have an hour to fix
them something fancy; I need meals that are fast, kid pleasing, and good
for them. Do you have any suggestions?

Topic leading questions:

-   *"What are some examples of prepare-ahead meals that your family
    likes?"*

-   *"Does anyone here have this same situation?" What do you do?"*

-   *"What does a meal need to be balanced?"*

-   *"What fast meals does your family like that include foods from the
    Pyramid?"*

**CHILD DISCUSSION SESSION C-2**

**DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES**

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION: C-2**

**DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

"Feeding the Toddler"

> "Food for the Terrific Twos"
>
> "Your Toddler's Developmental Readiness"

**OBJECTIVE:**

The client will name and discuss ways of offering appropriate foods
based on their child's developmental stage.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  *Ellyn Satter series.*

2.  M. Story, K. Holt, D. Sofka, eds.: *Bright Futures in Practice:
    Nutrition,*

> 2^nd^ edition, National Center for Education in Maternal and Child
> Health, Arlington, VA, 2002.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

1.  Foods for Your Child 1-3 Years

2.  Foods for Your Child 4-6 Years

3.  Is Your Child A Picky Eater?

4.  Milk Recipe Book

5.  Cheese Recipe Book

6.  Egg Recipe Book

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

> Session outline follows.

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION C-2**

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their names, their children's names and ages, or other
    information you think of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups."

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    discussion and to elicit clients' concerns, as well as strategies
    for addressing their concerns during the discussion:

-   *"What is a favorite food that your child eats and enjoys at this
    particular time in his or her life?"*

-   *"What is a food that your child does not eat?"*

-   *"How old are your children and what are their favorite foods to eat
    right now?"*

-   *"What are your child's specific eating habits?"*

-   *"What foods does your child avoid?"*

-   *"Do you fix any certain foods for your child that they eat
    especially well?"*

-   *"What foods do you order for your children in a restaurant and
    why?"*

-   *"Are there any foods you don't think your child should have because
    of his age and what are they?"*

-   *"Do you know any foods that children might choke on?"*

-   *"How do you make meal time more comfortable for your child?"*

-   *"Can your child use one utensil better than another?"*

-   *"What are some things you have learned from others about feeding
    children?"*

-   *"What do you consider your responsibilities at mealtime, and what
    are your child's?"*

-   *"Has anyone had a child who insisted on eating only one thing for a
    long time?" What was it and how long did it last?"*

-   *"How do you try to control what your child eats?"*

-   *"What is something you noticed recently about your child's eating
    skills that might have changed?"*

Ask participants to give ages of their children and describe something
their children do that is funny or even confusing.

3)  If needed, help refocus the discussion on any of the following topic
    areas or specific issues:

-   Food appearance and textures

-   Comfortable physical setting

-   Utensils

-   Cups and plates

-   Being tired and over-stimulated

-   Distractions

-   Experience that fit developmental stages

4)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

**CHILD DISCUSSION SESSION C-3**

**TOOTH OR CONSEQUENCES -- A HEALTHY MOUTH**

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION: C-3**

**TOOTH OR CONSEQUENCES -- A HEALTHY MOUTH**

**ALTERNATIVE TITLES:**

"Taking Care of Your Child's Teeth"

> "Dental Health for Children"

**OBJECTIVE:**

Clients will learn proper techniques for good dental care.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

1.  Study Guide (follows)

2.  Channing I. Bete Co., Inc., *"About Tots and Tooth Care".* Available
    form the Dental Health Program, Cabinet for Health Services,
    Frankfort, KY. Phone: 502-564-3246.

3.  *"Kentucky Smile Curriculum",* Dental Health Program, Cabinet for
    Health Services, Frankfort, KY.

4.  M. Story, K. Holt, D. Sofka, eds.: *Bright Futures in Practice:
    Nutrition,*

> 2^nd^ edition, National Center for Education in Maternal and Child
> Health, Arlington, VA, 2002.

5.  Hamilton, Whitney, Sizer: *Nutrition Concepts and Controversies",
    3^rd^ edition.*

West Publishing, St. Paul, MN, 1988.

**METHOD:**

Involving participants in a facilitated group discussion.

**MATERIALS NEEDED:**

8.  Oral Health for Infants and Children

**DISCUSSION TOPICS:**

> Session outline follows.

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION C-3**

**Session Outline:**

1)  Opening the session.

-   Introductions: Introduce yourself. Give everyone the opportunity to
    know a little about each other, and to practice speaking to the
    group. Begin by having each person introduce themselves. They can
    give their names, their children's names and ages, or other
    information you think of.

-   Icebreaker Exercise -- optional, see earlier section of
    "Facilitating WIC Discussion Groups."

2)  Ask general, non-specific, open-ended questions to open up the
    discussion and focus the discussion on any of the following topics:

-   *"Why is dental care important for children?"*

-   *"What helps to get children to brush their teeth regularly?"*

-   *"What prevents children from brushing their teeth regularly?"*

-   *"Why are primary teeth important?"*

-   *"Why are teeth and gums important?"*

-   *"How do you feel if you forget to clean your teeth?"*

-   *"How do you feel after you clean your teeth?"*

-   *"How would things be different if you had no teeth?"*

-   *"How do you feel when the dentist says you have cavities?"*

-   *"I want to take care of my teeth and gums because...?"*

3)  If needed, help refocus the discussion on any of the following topic
    areas or specific issues:

-   Primary teeth

-   Teeth cleaning

-   Tooth brushing techniques

-   Flossing

-   Nutrition and dental health

-   Dental plaque

-   Dental cavities

-   Gingivitis

-   Fluoride

-   Sealants

4)  Closing the session.

-   Summarize the key points of the discussion.

-   Thank everyone for their participation.

-   Close the meeting.

**CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION C-3**

**TOOTH OR CONSEQUENCES -- A HEALTHY MOUTH**

**Study Guide**

CHILDHOOD DISCUSSION SESSION: C-3

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

# DENTAL HEALTH

### Introduction

Having healthy teeth is an important part of good health. Good dental
care consists of proper cleaning, teaching your children about healthy
food choices, and making regular dental care a habit.

**Primary Teeth**

Primary teeth are important for chewing properly, enjoying food,
speaking clearly, providing space in the jaw for permanent teeth, and
preventing decay. Decay in a baby tooth can lead to decay in permanent
teeth at a later time. Primary teeth begin to come in when a baby is
about 6 months old.

## Teeth Cleaning

Dental care should begin even before an infant's first tooth appears.
Clean the baby's gums with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze at least
once a day after feeding. This will help remove bacteria and plaque, and
will also help the infant get adjusted to having their mouth cleaned.

Begin cleaning primary teeth as soon as they appear. Be sure gums are
also cleaned. A child-sized toothbrush or washcloth should be used.
Tooth brushing is a health habit children need to learn. Have children
brush after all meals and snacks especially before bedtime. It is
important that the parents set an example by brushing their own teeth
after they eat.

**Tooth Brushing Technique**

Brushing the teeth removes plaque from the outer, inner, and chewing
surfaces of the teeth.

1.  Hold the toothbrush beside the teeth, with bristle tips at a
    45-degree angle against the gum line.

2.  Move the brush back and forth with short (half a tooth wide) strokes
    several times, in a gentle scrubbing motion. Brush the outer and
    inner surfaces of all teeth in this manner.

3.  Chewing surfaces should also be brushed vertically and make several
    up and down strokes with the front part of the brush. Brush gently
    with very short strokes and enough pressure so that the bristles are
    felt against the gums.

**Flossing**

Begin by flossing your child's teeth at about age 2 or as soon as their
teeth begin to touch. By age 8, a child can usually floss alone. A
dentist should be consulted on proper techniques to flossing. Incorrect
flossing can harm gums.

**Nursing Bottle Mouth**

This condition results when a baby sleeps with a bottle of milk, juice,
or sweetened liquid, or sleeps all night at the breast. The liquid
collects in the mouth and the sugar in the liquid bathes the teeth,
leading to tooth decay. A baby should not be put to sleep with a bottle
of anything but water. Do not let the baby sleep all night at the
breast.

One should begin teaching your infant to drink from a cup at 6 months of
age. Teeth and gums should be cleaned daily. A child may cry when you
try to take the bottle away. A child may be comforted with music, a
favorite toy, reading to the child, giving the child a back rub or
holding/rocking the child.

**Good Nutrition**

Adequate nutrients are needed to help the mouth and teeth develop
properly, especially protein, calcium, zinc, vitamins A, C and D, and
fluoride. Where local water supplies are not fluoridated, direct
applications of fluoride to the teeth may be necessary. Daily foods and
snacks should be provided from each food group.

**Plaque**

Plaque is a soft, sticky, colorless film that occurs on the teeth.
Plaque is made of harmful bacteria and is the major cause of tooth decay
and gum disease. Plaque can be removed by brushing daily.

**Dental Cavities**

Cavities are a bacterial infection. Cavities occur when there is plaque,
sugars, and starches on teeth that are cavity prone. The bacteria in
plaque produce acids when foods containing sugars or starches are eaten.
These acids can destroy tooth enamel. Plaque promotes the acid that
breaks down the enamel on teeth forming a cavity. Bacteria then invade
the dentin (the body of the tooth) and assists in destroying the entire
tooth.

**Gingivitis**

A most frequent sign of gingivitis is inflamed (red and swollen) gums
that bleed easily, especially when brushing the teeth. The primary cause
of this periodontal disease is plaque. Plaque builds up along the gum
line, irritating the gums and making them tender and likely to bleed.
Daily brushing can help in avoiding gum disease.

**Fluoride**

Fluoride occurs naturally in water supplies, although there is variation
in the amount, depending on the water source and area. Fluoride can be
obtained by using toothpaste containing fluoride, or your dentist may
suggest fluoride applications depending on the condition of the teeth.
Fluoride assists in building strong teeth and makes teeth more resistant
to cavities. However, fluoride can be harmful if excessive amounts are
consumed; teeth can appear spotted with white opaque areas.

**ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS FROM THE TENNESSEE WIC PROGRAM**

This manual is a true example of synergy. Large portions were copied
directly from the New Mexico manual, "Facilitator's Guide for Nutrition
Education -- Listen, Share, Support" and also from Kentucky's adaptation
of New Mexico's manual. In addition, thanks can be given to
professionals here in Tennessee for creating our own adaptation. Jane
Baxter, who served as curriculum consultant, Betsy Haughton, who guided
the evaluation process, Tim Gill, our media creator, and Laurie Stanton
who provided research and writing skills are certainly to be commended.

Joy Almond, Pamela Newton, and Glenda Nanney served as advisors and
offered suggestions not only on the manual but also on the workshop,
"Facilitators of Change," held in Nashville on January 8, 9, and 10,
2003.

In addition to those mentioned above, sincere thanks for creativity,
support, technical assistance and hard work are given to the following:

Barbara Bridges, Ann Hopton, Perrie Hutcherson, Jennifer Isaacson, Abdul
Khoshnaw, Glenda King, Peggy Lewis, Barbara Lucas, Rubelyn Mays, Bill
McCorkle Kay Moore, Sharon Morrow, Jerry Orenstein, Jim Raybeck, Evelyn
Roberts, Sabrina Sasser, Jeanece Seals, Brian Senecal, Barbara Shields,
Charles Smith, Barbara Thompson, and Kathy Vaughan.

**Overview**

The purpose of WIC nutrition education is to share knowledge about
eating for good nutrition and health during pregnancy, infancy, and
early childhood. Ideally, nutrition education through WIC should also
facilitate behavioral changes to help participants eat a more healthful
diet. The Tennessee WIC Program serves a total of 152,809 participants,
including 19,999 pregnant women, 3378 breastfeeding women, 42,386
infants under age 1, and 71,231 children from ages 1-5. Across all age
groups, the most frequent reason for WIC certification is inadequate
diet. Anecdotally, most Tennessee WIC participants consume at least 3-5
"fast-food" meals per week, and their diets lack fruits, vegetables, and
low-fat dairy products. Obesity is a growing problem in the nation and
our state; in 2001, an average of 10.9% of WIC participants in Tennessee
were considered overweight for height. Anemia also continues to afflict
Tennessee WIC participants. In 2001, an average of 10.2% of Tennessee
WIC participants had low hemoglobin levels. WIC does, however, make a
difference. In a participant survey conducted in Tennessee in the fall
of 2001, approximately 46% of participants reported that they had
changed eating habits as a result of WIC nutrition education. These
facts indicate a need for revitalized nutrition education to help WIC
participants in Tennessee continue to improve their knowledge and choose
a more healthful diet.

A more client-based approach to education can be achieved in which
educators act as facilitators of behavioral change. A client-based,
behavioral approach to nutrition education has been proven effective in
facilitating dietary change. Unfortunately, nutrition education is often
educator-based. It is based on the educator's perceptions of the
participant rather than on the participant's actual needs. To facilitate
behavioral change in participants, nutritionists must seek first to
understand eating habits from the participant's paradigm, discover which
stage of change the participant is in, and counsel accordingly. The five
stages of change (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action,
and maintenance) are part of any long-lasting personal behavior change.
This model for behavioral change can be helpful in designing,
delivering, and evaluating interventions to help people adopt more
healthful eating plans.

In 2000, the Tennessee Department of Health received a 3 year WIC
Special Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and
Nutrition Service. This grant supports the Food and Nutrition Service's
Revitalizing Quality Nutrition Services (RQNS) in the WIC program
initiative. The first year of the grant involved training to improve the
WIC clinic environment. During Year 2 of the grant project, training is
offered using the five stages of change to help staff become
facilitators of change rather than simply conveyors of nutrition
information. This training helps educators understand the science of
behavioral counseling and enhances their skills in communication and
effective listening so that they can more effectively provide knowledge
the participant needs to make their own changes to improve their health.

During Year 3 of the project, mentors will be trained to reinforce the
client-based concepts of behavioral change learned during the
facilitator training. Research has shown that continuous reinforcement,
along with participatory, "hands-on" experience, is an effective tool in
adult learning. Additionally, job satisfaction tends to be higher among
those who have had a mentor and/or have been a mentor for another
employee. For this reason, trained mentors will work on-site with staff
to continually reinforce concepts and provide "real-world" guidance.

Nutrition staff state-wide have identified counseling skills and
improving clinic environment as ongoing training needs. This training
project will address both of these issues, thereby helping staff to
strengthen nutrition education in Tennessee at the local clinic level.
Through a series of 3 trainings over the 3-year grant period, this
project will help to improve staff attitudes and self-satisfaction,
improve customer service relationships, increase skills in behavioral
counseling and evaluation, and encourage client-based education, thereby
revitalizing the quality of nutrition services in WIC in Tennessee.

# NUTRITION EDUCATION/ OUTREACH MATERIALS

**Tennessee Department of Health**

**Nutrition Services/WIC**

**January, 2003**

ABC'S OF TEACHING YOUR BABY TO USE A CUP, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0094

ABC'S OF TEACHING YOUR BABY TO USE A CUP (Spanish), PKG/100
715-02-00DH0104

BE SNACK WISE, PK/200 715-02-00DH0100

BE SNACK WISE (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0106

BREASTFEEDING IS BEST (Bilingual), PK/100 715-02-00DH0095

BREASTFEEDING: BABY'S BEST START, PKG/50 715-02-00DH0015

BREASTFEEDING: BABY'S BEST START (Spanish), PKG/50 715-02-00DH0093

DRUGS, ALCOHOL, TOBACCO NO FRIEND (Bilingual), PKG/200 395-51-00DH0038

FEEDING YOUR BABY BIRTH-4 MO., PKG/200 715-02-00DH0024

FEEDING YOUR BABY BIRTH-4 MO. (Spanish), PKG/100 (Central Office)

FEEDING YOUR BABY 4 MO.-1 YR., PKG/100 715-02-00DH0023

FEEDING YOUR BABY 4 MO.-1 YR. (Spanish), PKG/200 (Central Office)

FOLIC ACID EVERY DAY MAKE IT A HABIT BOOKMARK (Central Office)

FOLIC ACID EVERY DAY MAKE IT A HABIT BOOKMARK, (Spanish) (Central
Office)

FOOD FOR A HEALTHY MOTHER AND BABY, PKG/200 715-02-00DH0006

FOOD FOR A HEALTHY MOTHER AND BABY (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0066

FOODS FOR AFTER YOU DELIVER, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0084

FOODS FOR AFTER YOU DELIVER (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0091

FOODS FOR YOUR CHILD 1 - 3 YEARS, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0086

FOODS FOR YOUR CHILD 1 - 3 YEARS (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0092

FOODS FOR YOUR CHILD 4 - 6 YEARS, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0088

FOODS FOR YOUR CHILD 4 - 6 YEARS (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0101

FOOD GUIDE PYRAMID, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0042

FOOD GUIDE PYRAMID, (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0081

HELP YOUR CHILD GAIN WEIGHT, PKG/200 715-02-00DH0008

NUTRANOTES 5-A-DAY FOR BETTER HEALTH, PKG/200 395-51-00DH0063

NUTRANOTES 5-A-DAY FOR BETTER HEALTH (Spanish), PKG/100 395-51-00DH0074

NUTRANOTES CHILD IS A PICKY EATER, PKG/200 395-51-00DH0047

ORAL HEALTH FOR INFANTS AND CHILDREN, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0083

ORAL HEALTH FOR INFANTS AND CHILDREN (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0089

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM LEAD, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0076

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM LEAD (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0080

RECIPE BOOK, CHEESE, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0097

RECIPE BOOK, CHEESE (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0108

RECIPE BOOK, EGGS, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0096

RECIPE BOOK, EGGS, (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0107

RECIPE BOOK, MILK, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0098

RECIPE BOOK, MILK, PKG/100 715-02-00DH0109

RELIEF FOR COMMON PREGNANCY DISCOMFORT (Bilingual), PKG/200
715-02-00DH0017

SHOP AND SAVE (Bilingual), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0068

SPOON FEED FOR A HEALTHY START, PKG/250 715-02-00DH0078

SPOON FEED FOR A HEALTHY START (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0082

STORING BREASTMILK (Bilingual), PKG/200 (Central Office)

10 WAYS TO GET YOUR KIDS TO EAT FRUITS AND VEGETABLES (Bilingual),
PKG/200

715-02-00DH0072

THE HEALTHY WEIGH, A GUIDE TO NUTRITION AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT, PKG/100

715-02-00DH0071

THE HEALTHY WEIGH, A GUIDE TO NUTRITION AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT(Spanish),
PKG/100 715-02-00DH0105

THE STRENGTH OF IRON, PKG/200 715-02-00DH0025

THE STRENGTH OF IRON (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0073

VITAMIN C, PD/50 715-02-00DH0003

WATCHING YOUR CHILD'S WEIGHT, PKG/200 715-02-00DH0067

WATCHING YOUR CHILD'S WEIGHT (Spanish), PKG/200 715-02-00DH0069

WHY EVERY WOMAN NEEDS FOLIC ACID (English) PKG/100 715-02-00DH0070

WHY EVERY WOMAN NEEDS FOLIC ACID (Spanish) PKG/100 715-02-00DH0079

WIC FOOD WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST, PKG/200 715-02-00DH0010

WIC FOOD WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST (Spanish) PKG/200 715-02-00DH0090

WIC: WHAT DOES WIC PROVIDE, PKG/200 715-02-00DH0102

WIC: WHAT DOES WIC PROVIDE (Spanish), PKG/200 715-02-00DH0103

WIC WORKS, LET US HELP (PAMPHLET), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0054

WIC WORKS, LET US HELP (PAMPHLET) (Spanish), PKG/100 715-02-00DH0077