Parent and Toddler Groups
Parent and Toddler Groups provide an informal but rewarding environments for parents and their children. Groups like this can provide valuable play experiences for children and allows parents to connect with and share information with other parents.
There are no specific regulations for Parent and Toddler Groups in Ireland, so as such there are no uniform structures that groups follow. However here you can find some advice on setting up a Parent and Toddler Group in your community.
- you will need to decide how the group is run
- Will your form a committee or just have one organiser? If you decide on a committee you will need to agree the various roles, chairperson, treasurer, etc.
- you can check local community centres, health centres, sports clubs or church halls may be willing to let your group use the space. Approach them and ask!
- Consider toilet and changing facilities, parking, space for play, any hazards for young children. An outdoor area can be invaluable for children.
- Consider waste disposal, particularly for young children still in nappies.
- Keep in mind the benefits of well ventilated spaces when it comes to COVID-19, other respiratory infections and infection control.
- Fees from parents will help you continue to provide the space and environments for parents and their children. Fees will depend on the outgoings and covering snacks, teas and coffees, equipment for the children, insurance, etc.
- Organisers could consider setting up a bank account to manage fees and pay outgoings.
- Funding can be applied for from time to time, check in with your local childcare committee or Early Childhood Ireland for information.
- Parents and their children between birth and school going age can attend. Do you want to target a specific group of parents? Parents in the community, or parents working specific hours?
- Remember to keep a log of who will be joining your groups.
- Parents must remember to be responsible for their own children at all times.
- Consider how you will advertise your group, and what the demand will be like. Your county childcare committee may have some advice on this.
- Our ECI Shop provides important play, administration and cleaning equipment and discounted prices for members.
- Ensure toys and play equipment are age appropriate.
- Ensure you have facilities for changing, for rest and relaxation and for the comfort of parents.
- Each group should have access to a trained first aider at all times. For Early Learning and Care services Tusla recommend First Aid Response, or you can consider Paediatric First Aid.
- Ensure your group has access to a First Aid kit, emergency numbers and that you are aware of any allergies.
- Make sure that all parents know the procedure during a fire and practice a fire drill regularly with parents.
- Keep in mind safety and security of your group by risk assessing access, doors, fire escapes and accessibility.
- Ensure that there are no dangers to young children in areas accessible to your group.
- You can find out more about joining Early Childhood Ireland as a Parent and Toddler Group member here.
- Once you have joined Early Childhood Ireland, you can contact Arachas Insurance for a quote under the group scheme.
Funding for Parent and Toddler Groups
The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCECIY) has announced funding of €325,000, which will be allocated to Parent and Toddler Groups nationwide through local City/County Childcare Committees (CCCs). From today, Friday, 13 May, Parent and Toddler Groups can make an application for funding under this Initiative through their local CCC.
