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22 Jan 2026
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22 Jan 2026
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Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn, and Teresa Heeney, CEO of Early Childhood Ireland, prepare for National Pyjama Day. Pic: Marc O’Sullivan
An annual fundraiser will take place on Friday, February 27, promising a day of fun and community spirit for children and families, while raising funds for LauraLynn and Early Childhood Ireland’s Eco-Emotions project.
More than 780 children in Mayo took part in the National Pyjama Day last year, with early years and school-age care services across the county raising over €4,000. Nationally, the event has raised more than €4.5 million since it began in 2003 to support young children’s development and wellbeing.
Teresa Heeney, chief executive of Early Childhood Ireland, said the organisation was proud to partner with LauraLynn for the 2026 event.
“We look forward to a day when children in Mayo and across Ireland come together to enjoy fun, kindness and community, while supporting the delivery of personalised care to children with palliative and complex needs and vital supports for their families,” she said.
A portion of the funds raised will go towards LauraLynn’s Family Support Services, helping families access emotional, therapeutic and practical care when they need it. LauraLynn provides specialist care and builds community supports for children with life-limiting conditions and their families across Ireland.
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Kerry McLaverty, chief executive of LauraLynn, welcomed the partnership, describing National Pyjama Day as a powerful example of children helping children.
“This much-loved event brings together over 65,000 children across 1,300 early years settings each year. The funds raised will help us continue providing specialised care and vital family supports to children with life-limiting conditions across Ireland,” she said.
Alongside supporting LauraLynn, this year’s fundraiser will continue to back Early Childhood Ireland’s Eco-Emotions project, which helps children reconnect with nature and understand their emotions.
National Pyjama Day 2026 takes place on Friday, February 27, with schools, early years services and families invited to take part and donate to support both causes. You can donate to this year’s National Pyjama Day here.
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