Press Release: Ten days to go until National Pyjama Day 2023 – Marking 20 years of ‘Children helping Children.’

Pyjamas, slippers and dressing gowns at the ready – the countdown is on for over 60,000 children across the country who will celebrate the 20^th anniversary of Early Childhood Ireland’s National Pyjama Day on Friday, 17^th November.

Early Years and School Age Care settings participating in the annual fundraiser by Early Childhood Ireland, are inviting children to don their cosiest pyjamas for the day to raise funds to support children across Ireland.

To date, National Pyjama Day activities have raised more than €4 million for selected projects and charities. This year, proceeds will go to autism charity AsIAm’s ‘Child and Family Support Programme’ which provides group-based support and advocacy for autistic children and their families.

Funds raised will also go to a new ‘Eco-Emotions’ project for Early Years and School Age Care educators. Developed by Early Childhood Ireland in response to member feedback, the programme will support children to show care for themselves, each other, their communities and their environment.

Teresa Heeney, CEO of Early Childhood Ireland said: “The Eco-Emotions project is something our members have asked for. They’ve pinpointed a way that educators of our youngest citizens can help to shape their sense of place and the need to care about themselves, the people around them and the world around them.

“It will be an empowering project for children across Ireland to learn how they can help others. Exactly as they do on National Pyjama Day when they can enjoy great fun while having a significant impact on the lives of other children.

“In our 20^th year, we’re expecting this to be our biggest National Pyjama Day yet and it wouldn’t be possible without our brilliant members who make the day so special for children with teddy bear picnics, pillow fights, bear hunts and lots more. And we are so grateful to the parents and other family members who generously support this fun and impactful day.”

Early Childhood Ireland members can continue to register for National Pyjama Day until 16 November at: www.earlychildhoodireland.ie.

All participating services receive an event pack including posters, a National Pyjama Day storybook for each child, sponsorship envelopes and stickers.

ENDS