Building on the success of the Parent & Toddler Group Initiative in 2007/2008, (a strategic partnership between the Office of the Minister for Children (OMC) under the National Childcare Investment Programme (NICP) 2006-2010) grants were awarded to 837 groups throughout the county.

The Initiative developed a support and information strategy, in collaboration with the City/County Childcare Committees (CCCs), to assist the promotion and expansion of Parent & Toddler Groups.  The grant, recognise that Parent & Toddler Groups are providing informal support to parents, grandparents and childminders, as well as to young children.  These groups are an important source of social contact especially for new parents and families new to an area.

Applications for funding under this scheme should only be made by Parent & Toddler Groups that are organised on a not for profit basis and involve the participation of parents in the community.  Grants will normally range from €100 to €600.

Funds will be available for:

• Toys, equipment and books
• Training for parents, e.g. paediatric first-aid, committee skills, parenting courses
• Children’s activities, e.g. arts & crafts, music
• Limited funding will be available towards insurance, rent, training or minor refurbishment

Funding will not be available for:

• Groups operating out of private homes
• One off events such as outings, parties and trips
• Groups with €4,000 or more income in 2008
• Groups that received KHF funding in 2008 and did not return the Progress Report.

For further details or application forms please contact;

Sinead Rock
Support & Development Officer
Louth County Childcare Committee Ltd.