Beyond Jitters

Types of AA Meetings

Child-Friendly: Child-friendly AA meetings allow each member to bring up to one child to the meeting, with the expectation that the discussion will not feature experiences or language that are inappropriate for the child. Formal childcare may not be available, but the member can watch over her child while participating in the discussion.

Discussion: In Minnesota, AA discussion meetings offer the opportunity for all members to share their thoughts and feelings on a specific subject. Leaders usually derive inspiration for the discussion from an AA text, such as the Big Book. They’ll open with their own reflections, and then encourage others to discuss.

Open: In Minnesota, open AA meetings are available to anyone who wants to learn more about the program and the 12 step model of addiction recovery. This may include individuals who need help overcoming alcohol addictions as well as friends, relatives, and loved ones interested in how the organization operates.

Speaker: Motivational speakers are an effective tool to reinforce sobriety among members in Minnesota AA programs. Speakers are usually AA alumni and use raw emotions, spirituality, charm, and humor to inspire their listeners.

Step Meeting: AA programs in Minnesota feature step meetings to assist members’ recovery. In these meetings, members participate in group readings, converse about their experience and relate it to the text, and suggest ways for future improvement.