Download Parent and Toddler Information Pack
Parent and Toddler groups are a great place for parents (both mothers & fathers) but also grandparents, guardians, childminders and carers to get together and provide a fun filled environment in which their children, usually under 5, can play. A small charge usually arises for participants, which helps pay for the toys, insurance, craft activities and refreshments. You can attend a Parent & Toddler Group with a new born baby, a baby who has just learnt to sit, a toddler and a pre-schooler, or a combination of the above.
It provides children with a great starting point to get used to a populated setting which can make the transition to pre-school easier. Group activities also help children build their social skills as it gives them the opportunity to interact with other children. For parents these groups can be a great source of support. It provides an opportunity to meet with other parents in your locality and share experiences, tips and information.
Groups can organise speakers to address the parents on issues that interest them e.g. nutrition, child development, speech therapy and the value of play or arrange a meeting with the public health nurse etc.
To find a list of Parent and Toddler Groups in Laois please click on https://www.laoischildcare.ie/directory/ and pick Parent and Toddler from the drop down section at the top of the page
Information on grants available:
Applications for funding under this scheme should only be made by P&T Groups that are organised on a not-for-profit basis and involve the participation of parents/guardians to include recently arrived parents and children from Ukraine and other countries in the community. Grants will normally range from €100 to a total maximum of €1,400. New start up groups may apply for a grant of up to €1,100, existing P&T Groups can apply for up to €800.
As well as grants for existing and new P&T groups, an additional amount of up to €300 is available to provide an additional session. There is also a maximum of €300 available to operate/establish Buggy Walking Groups[1]. Groups are advised to contact their local CCC for further information in respect to these two additional funding options.
Funding will be available for:
Funding will not be available for:
[1] . Buggy Walking Groups are organised social walks for parents, guardians, and their babies and toddlers. They provide a range of benefits including social interaction, physical activity and emotional, peer support. Buggy Walk Groups aim to give support to parents and guardians and their young children, allowing them to chat to each other, get exercise and fresh air and make friends in their local community. Groups are expected to be inclusive of all newcomers, where possible, but some groups may for example only be able concentrate on new and expectant mums and recently arrived parents and children from Ukraine and other countries.
Additional Information:
How to Apply:
Grant applications must be sent back to Sinéad at s.brophy@laoischildcare.ie or posted to
Grants for Parent & Toddler Groups,
Laois County Childcare Committee,
6 Lismard Court,
Portlaoise,
Co. Laois
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