Press Release
National Childhood Network & Lifestart Host Groundbreaking ‘Shaping Relationships for Life’ Conference in Monaghan
National Childhood Network (NCN) and Lifestart welcomed early childhood professionals, educators, policymakers and parents to The Hillgrove Hotel, Monaghan, for the highly anticipated conference titled ‘Shaping Relationships for Life’ on Saturday, October 12th 2024. This impactful event provided an essential platform for discussions on the vital role of early childhood relationships in shaping lifelong learning and development.
The conference drew professionals and parents from across the country, eager to explore evidence-based strategies to foster healthy, supportive relationships from the earliest stages of life. The event’s agenda featured a series of keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and panel discussions that emphasized the importance of positive early-life relationships, particularly between children and their caregivers, educators, and peers.
Speaking at the event, Michelle Hart CEO of the National Childhood Network, emphasized the power of early relationships: “The foundation of every child’s ability to succeed is deeply rooted in the relationships they build during their formative years. Conferences like this allow us to collaborate and share knowledge, helping us to better shape those foundational relationships.”
Attendees engaged with leading experts in child development and education, including Dr Lisha O’Sullivan Mary Immaculate College, Limerick and Grainne Mc Kenna, Assistant Professor at Dublin City University. Both speakers delivered inspiring addresses on the role of play and the importance of warm nurturing relationships for young children. Eimear Carron Quality Specialist (Assistant Principal Officer) from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth give an uplifting opening address. The conference also featured hands-on sessions offering practical tools and strategies for educators, professionals and parents to implement in their daily work with children.
NCN and Lifestart partnership in hosting this event underscores their shared commitment to supporting early childhood development in Ireland, ensuring that the nation’s youngest citizens grow up in environments that nurture strong, healthy relationships.
“This conference is a testament to the work being done across Ireland to give children the best possible start in life. Through collaboration and continuous learning, we can equip parents and our early childhood workforce with the knowledge and tools they need to support every child’s potential,” said Mary Walker Callaghan, Regional Manager of Lifestart Services and Chairperson of NCN.
NCN/Lifestart would like to take this opportunity to thank the main sponsors of our conference:- Cavan/Monaghan CYPSC, Child Paths & Enterprising Monaghan. NCN are thrilled to be working in collaboration with so many amazing organisations that help support the lives of children and families. Without your sponsorship this wonderful day could not have happened.
About National Childhood Network (NCN)
The National Childhood Network (NCN) is a leading organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of early childhood education and care across Ireland. NCN provides information, resources, training, and support to early childhood professionals and parents, helping to create positive, inclusive environments for young children to learn and thrive.
About Lifestart
Lifestart works to promote and support the delivery of evidence-based parenting programs that enhance the nurturing environment for children. Lifestart’s mission is to ensure every child receives the best start in life, with a focus on empowering parents and caregivers with the skills and confidence they need to support their children’s development.
For more information on the conference or to speak with an NCN or Lifestart representative, please contact NCN info@ncn.ie or Lifestart Services Mary Walker Callaghan at mary.walkercallaghan@lifestartservices.org
ENDS
