AbstractThe study sought to determine whether there were social network and demographic differences between short‐term (nonusers) and long‐term (users) participants in an educational support program for parents of very young children. The sample included 55 working‐class and low‐income mothers. Nonusers were found to have less involvement in community affairs, a fewer number of nearby friends and relatives, and received less instrumental help from parents than program users. Nonusers gave more overall in helping relationships but received more help at the time of the child's birth than users. Nonusers also had a fewer number of children than users. There were no significant income differences between nonusers and users. The data suggested that social network attributes may play a role in determining an individual's need and style regarding participation in a formal peer‐oriented program. Implications for program development and future research were