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
Minister Foley launches the 2025 Parent and Toddler Group Grant
Minister Norma Foley – TD is delighted to announce that additional funding of €100,000 has been secured, on top of last year’s allocation of €250,000, to reflect the growth of Parent and Toddler groups in recent years.
The funding can be used for a variety of purposes including children’s toys, equipment and books as well as children’s refreshments and snacks. It can also be used for children’s activities such as arts and crafts and music. Parents can also be supported with parenting courses and courses in first aid for children.
If you are involved with a Parent and Toddler Group in Laois and wish to apply for the 2025 P&T funding please complete the application form and send it back to Laois County Childcare Committee by 28th March 2025.
Please note that you must ALSO submit
- up-to-date bank statements/credit union or post office statements (reflecting the groups closing balance as of 31st December 2024) and
- Forward evidence of insurance with application for existing P&T Groups. For newly formed groups, if insurance is not available, evidence must be submitted within one month of the application being completed.
Please see below Application form and Guidelines to download
Parents Information
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