We extend our sincere thanks to all of the organisations and individuals who helped make Childhood Services Week 2026 such a meaningful and vibrant celebration across the island of Ireland.
Our appreciation goes to the Department of Children, Disability and Equality and the Department of Education for their continued support and leadership. We are deeply grateful to our inspiring collaborators: Helen Steele, Dr Rita Melia (ATU), Dr Glenda Walsh (SUC), Helen Blackmore and Sarah Fitzgibbon ( Music Conservatoire, TU Dublin), and Dr Geraldine French.
We also warmly thank our partner organisations: Early Years – The Organisation for Young Children, National Childcare Voluntary Collaborative, Museum of Childhood Ireland, Altram, Libraries Ireland, Creative Youth Monaghan and Cavan, Children’s Books Ireland, Patricia Forde (former Laureate na nÓg), Music Generation, Ceol Connected, the National Gallery of Ireland, Grovelands Childcare, and Cherry Blossom Montessori.
Together, you brought this year’s theme to life in powerful and creative ways, engaging educators through high-quality professional development and inspiring children to explore the arts in all its forms.
We pay special tribute to the dedicated staff and board of the National Childhood Network. Your creativity, commitment, and collaborative spirit were at the heart of everything we achieved this week.
Finally, we thank the childhood settings, educators, children, and families across the island of Ireland who embraced the week with such enthusiasm. Your participation is what truly gives Childhood Services Week its energy, purpose, and impact.
As we look ahead, Childhood Services Week 2027 may evolve under a new banner or name. However, the core principles will remain unchanged: a shared commitment to collaboration, the importance of the arts in children’s lives, and celebrating the essential work of childhood educators across the island of Ireland.
With sincere thanks to you all,
Michelle Hart, CEO