PRESS RELEASE
20 October 2026
National Childminding Week Highlights the Value of Childminders
Childminders play a vital role in cities, towns, villages and communities across Ireland. They support parents to work, study and train, while giving children enriching early learning experiences in a safe, nurturing home-from-home environment.
As demand for high-quality childcare continues to grow, the contribution of childminders has never been more important.
National Childminding Week is a chance to raise awareness of childminding and to celebrate the dedication childminders show every day. It also promotes childminding as a high-quality childcare option, one that offers flexibility, continuity of care and the comfort of a home setting, with benefits that reach well beyond the family.
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley said:
“Childminders make a real and lasting difference to children and families across Ireland. In homes in every county, they help children learn, play and grow in confidence, become a trusted extension of the families they care for, and give parents the reassurance to work, study and train knowing their children are safe, settled and loved.
National Childminding Week is our opportunity to say thank you. I encourage families and communities everywhere to take a moment this week to celebrate the childminders who mean so much to them.”
Throughout National Childminding Week, a range of local events and activities will take place nationwide. These events will provide opportunities for childminders to connect with one another, share experiences, learn about available supports and celebrate the positive impact they have on the lives of the families they support.
To find out about events and activities taking place in your area during National Childminding Week, visit www.letstalkchildminding.ie.
Local Childcare Committees are available to support any childminder, or anyone thinking of becoming one, visit https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/campaigns/city-and-county-childcare-committees/
ENDS
Notes to Editors
- National Childminding Week takes place from 19 to 23 October 2026.
- The week aims to:
- Celebrate the contribution of childminders to children, families and communities.
- Raise awareness of childminding as a high-quality childcare option.
- Promote understanding of the unique benefits of childminding.
- Provide opportunities for childminders to connect, share experiences and learn about available supports.
- Events and activities will take place nationwide throughout the week.
- Further information is available at www.letstalkchildminding.ie.