Childminders urged to apply for childminding grant

CHILDMINDERS across Carlow can avail of a new childminding grant to help with the cost of toys and other equipment.

Eligible childminders can get up to €1,000 from the Childminding Development Grant to put towards the cost of toys, childcare and safety equipment, and equipment supporting STEM learning.

The grant will be available to both registered and unregistered childminders who provide a service in their homes. The grant is also available to those planning on opening a childminding business in 2025.

Three-quarters of this grant is paid in advance to childminders who avail from the grant, allowing them to buy safety equipment straightaway.

Welcoming the grant, minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor said: ”For every parent, the development of their child is of paramount importance. To see them learn and grow is one of life’s privileges, and we as a government want to help aid and invest in that as much as we can.

“The announcement of the Childminding Development Grant by my colleague and minister for children Norma Foley will further enhance the quality of service childminders give to children.” Minister Murnane O’Connor encouraged all childminders to avail of the grant, adding that Fianna Fáil is committed to supporting the childcare sector over the term of this government.

“I would encourage all childminders across Carlow to avail of this grant if they are eligible,” she said.