Parent & Toddler Group Initiative Grants 2026

Applications for the Parent & Toddler Grants 2026 are now CLOSED.

DETAILS LISTED BELOW ARE FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY

FOR MORE INFORAMTION PLEASE CONTACT SIOBHAN ON 057 9135878

Would you like to set up a new Parent & Toddler Group in your locality?

A Grant is available, please see information and documents below.

Introduction

The focus of the 2026 Parent and Toddler grants is to support groups to include all families. Parent and Toddler (“P&T”) Groups provide informal support to parents/guardians, grandparents, and childminders, as well as to young children. These groups are an important source of social contact especially for new parents/guardians etc., and families, new to an area.

The CCCs will work directly with P&TGroups in the administration of the grants in 2026. The grant scheme for P&TGroups will operate on an agreed grant cycle and timeframe, and in accordance with agreed national criteria and an approved assessment process.

Information on Grants Available

This is an opportunity to apply for funding to assist you with starting up.

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/guardians, grandparents, childminders and young children in establishing connections and to promote the inclusion of families from all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures. Grants will normally range from €100 to a total maximum of €1,000. New start up or existing standalone groups may apply for a grant of up to €1,000. New and existing Parent & Toddler Groups that are part of a larger organisation can apply for up to €800.

Funding will be available for:

Toys, equipment, and books for indoor and outdoor activities, including children’s refreshments. All toys should have the CE safety mark.
Children refreshments and snacks. Food allergies should be considered when buying refreshments for the group. No fizzy drinks or sweets. Please promote healthy snacks.
Cleaning supplies, e.g. hand sanitiser, antibacterial wipes/spray, etc.
Storage for equipment
Certified first aid kit
Buggy walking groups
Baby massage classes
Baby yoga classes
Music and sensory classes
Training for parents/guardians, e.g. paediatric first aid, committee skills, parenting courses, and facilitated sessions
Promotional leaflets, including any required translations
Children’s activities, e.g. arts and crafts, music

2026 funding will be available towards insurance and rent, up to a maximum of 50% of the total 2026 funding allocated for existing and new groups that are part of a larger organisation e.g. a Family Resource Centre, etc. The combined spend for insurance and rent cannot exceed the 50% of total funding.

üFunding will be available towards insurance and rent, up to a maximum of 70% of the total 2026 funding allocated for new and existing standalone groups not part of a larger organisation. The combined spend for insurance and rent cannot exceed the 70% of total funding.

If you would like to apply for the grant, please see guidelines and application documents below:

Parent and Toddler Grant 2026 Guidelines

Parent and Toddler Grant 2026 Application Form

Parent and Toddler Grant 2026 Data Protection Form

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20th FEBRUARY 2026 at 1pm

For more information, please contact Siobhán on M: 085 178 3397, E: siobhan@offalychildcare.com (Wednesday’s, Thursday’s and Friday’s)