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
Cathal Ryan Reporter
18:46, 15 Jan 2026
Applications are open for grants of up to €1,000 for parent and toddler groups around the country.
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley announced €350,000 in funding for groups that 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, as well as first aid kits, cleaning supplies, storage for equipment, and training for parents.
Funding available as well to establish and operate buggy walking groups. These buggy walking groups are organised social walks for parents/guardians and young children.
The grant can fund costs such as refreshments, information leaflets and insurance. It is open to any existing or new organisations or groups who wish to offer a minimum of six organised walks within their community.
A parent and toddler group is an informal group within the local community, which provides an opportunity for young children and their parents or carers to meet. While parent and toddler groups are traditionally aimed at parents, they can include children and their childminders, grandparents and other guardians.
The maximum allowable total funding to be granted to new and standalone parent and toddler groups in 2026 is €1,000 and the maximum allowable funding to be granted to new and existing parent and toddler groups that are part of a larger organisation is €800.
Minister Foley said: “I’m delighted to be supporting the remarkable work of the Parent and Toddler groups who provide a valuable opportunity for parents/carers with younger children to meet up in the community. These groups are especially useful for new parents and parents who are new to an area.”
From Thursday, January 15, groups are invited to make an application for funding under this initiative through their local County Childcare Committee. A full list is available here.
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