New education programme for young children in Tullamore

ParentChild+ is a new education programme for children aged 16 months to 3.06 years, which was introduced in Tullamore by Parents First in 2023.

They believe that parents are their child’s first and best teacher, who can benefit from support from their trained Home Visitors. Parents are engaged in non-directive, child-led play with their child during 2 visits per week (30 minutes) over the course of the school year. Families receive books and toys, which they continue to use with their child at home. The vision of ParentChild + is that every child can start school ready to succeed because parents have already made a head start in their own homes.

They would like to thank D & S Hardware, in Axis Business Park for their generous support of the ParentChild+ programme. Stephen and Emer have donated the uniforms, jackets and bags used by the Programme Coordinator and the Home visitors.

This programme adds to the services that Parents First provides which includes a home visiting programme for all parents in the community from pregnancy until their child is 3 years old. It puts parents first, providing them with information, support and building connectivity in the local community. They also offer:

· Baby massage/ First Aid for babies and young children

· Sensory Play sessions

· A Child's Play programme

· A Family Morning Group

· First Time Parents Group

All programmes are free. Parents are welcome to call for more information.

Dolores Wrafter, Manager, Parents First: Phone 086 1959221

Marian Lawless Coordinator ParentChild+ Phone 085 8683168