Expecting a baby can be one of the most exciting times of a parent’s life. It can also be riddled with anticipation and uncertainties. The need to hold space and build connection for expectant parents facing increasing stress, anxiety, and isolation as they adjust to life with a baby is even more critical as we navigate a global health pandemic.

This need is demonstrated in a recent Seattle Times article, where Crystal Paul did a beautiful job capturing the perspectives and experiences of expectant parents in her story, "Pregnant during a pandemic — Seattleites share their concerns about birth, delivery, and beyond."

PEPS is excited to be offering a peer-support group designed specifically for expectant parents!

Local expectant and adoptive parents can attend this 6-week online program, solo or with a partner. Each session will be led by a Group Leader trained in inclusive facilitation and will include time to share highs and lows and weekly topics for discussion. Meetings will also include time for informal socializing and connecting with other parents. 

The PEPS curriculum has been adapted and modified for this program. Discussion topics may include: 

• Week 1: Preparing for Baby's Arrival
• Week 2: Work, Child Care & Family Life
• Week 3: Self Care & Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
• Week 4: Parenting Identities & Roles
• Week 5: Building Your Family Culture
• Week 6: The Fourth Trimester

Connecting the Expecting Groups are held virtually. These online groups include families from around the Puget Sound and are not neighborhood based. You will receive details on the Zoom meeting ID & password upon registration confirmation. We recommend that you download Zoom in advance.

Our organization strives to continuously learn, adapt, and enhance the curriculum. Be sure to participate in the pre-and post-program surveys!

Who Attends: One parent can attend solo or with a partner.
Cost*: We offer Flexible Pricing for all programs.
Length: 1.5 hours once a week for 6 weeks.

This program is designed for families in their third trimester (or planning to adopt a baby within the next few months). We recommend families register for a group that best aligns with their baby's due date.

PEPS programs fill quickly — register today to secure your spot!

REGISTER FOR CONNECTING THE EXPECTING

* Cost includes a non-refundable registration fee of 10% of the program fee selected. In the case of changes or cancellations, please visit our FAQs page for the PEPS Cancellation and Refund Policy.

Interested in registering for a PEPS Group once your baby arrives? Learn more about which PEPS Groups might be right for you, along with locations and dates here.

Families of Color Seattle (FOCS) offers virtual parent groups for families with expectant parents, newborns, waddlers, and multi-age affinity groups for families of color. FOCS groups are intentional in creating space for conversations about race and equity and focus on the journey of parenting children of color, centering their narratives. Discussions are facilitated through an anti-bias lens. We encourage families with children of color to also join a FOCS parent group. To learn more and register, visit their Groups information page.

Financial Assistance

PEPS is committed to serving every family who wants to participate in a PEPS Group. Just as everybody’s financial situation is unique, so is the program fee choice that will feel right for your family. Please contact PEPS staff at registration@peps.org for details.

Questions?
Check out our FAQs, call PEPS at (206) 547-8570, or email us at registration@peps.org.