Over €22,000 in funding for Parent and Toddler Groups in Mayo

Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD, and Keira Keogh TD have welcomed funding of €22,500 for 22 Parent and Toddler groups across Mayo.

“These groups provide a valuable opportunity for parents and carers with young children to meet up in the community. ‘It is very encouraging to see that more and more parents and their toddlers are taking part in these groups every year. I am pleased that these grants are supporting the growth of buggy walking groups, which were introduced post-COVID to encourage more outdoor activity,” said Minister Dillon.

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.

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Deputy Keira Keogh said: “I am delighted to see 22 Mayo groups included in today’s announcement. These Parent and Toddler Groups are a lifeline for families, especially new parents or those new to our communities, offering vital social support and a chance to build strong early childhood connections in a welcoming, inclusive environment.”

She continued: “It’s heartening to see this scheme grow every year, with more groups forming and expanding. As Chair of the Children’s Committee, I will continue to advocate for community-based supports of this kind as these groups bring people together at a time in life when support really matters. ”

The grants will be used for a wide range of supports including toys, books, snacks, arts and crafts materials, and even training such as paediatric first aid or parenting courses and also buggy walking groups.

This funding is part of a national allocation of €421,618 to support 461 Parent and Toddler Groups under the Parent and Toddler Group Grants Initiative 2025, which falls under the Government’s First 5 Strategy for babies, young children, and their families.