Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley has welcomed the publication of a new review highlighting the benefits of Government funding for parent and toddler groups.
The Parent and Toddler Group grants support weekly meet-ups for hundreds of parents, guardians, grandparents, childminders and young children across Ireland. In 2024, almost 400 parent and toddler groups received grants averaging €912 to support their activities.
The independent review of the Parent and Toddler Group Initiative found that it provides important social and parenting support for many families and represents significant value for money.
Minister Foley said she was pleased to support the valuable work of parent and toddler groups, noting that the report shows how parents and children make new friends, learn from one another and benefit from welcoming, relaxed, friendly, warm and inclusive environments.
Feedback gathered during the review highlighted the positive impact of the groups. Parents described gaining reassurance from sharing experiences with others, finding support during difficult periods, improving their wellbeing through activities such as buggy walking groups, building confidence within their communities and developing lasting friendships. Grandparents and childminders also reported benefits from having opportunities for children to socialize and play with others.
The review, conducted by Sandra Roe Research on behalf of the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, examined the initiative through face-to-face consultations, surveys and national data analysis. It found that parent and toddler groups play an important role in strengthening community connections and integration while providing accessible, low-cost support during a stage of life when parents and caregivers may feel isolated.
The report concluded that the Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative delivers very good value for money, meets the objectives of the scheme, supports the social and parenting needs of families and serves as an important source of community support.
Although mothers made up the majority of attendees, fathers reported feeling welcome and comfortable participating with their children. Many noted that improved paternity leave arrangements had made attendance easier.
The review also identified challenges facing parent and toddler groups, including rising rent and insurance costs, administrative requirements and difficulties recruiting volunteers to help run the groups.
