This article was published in The Bridge on October 2009. Author: Iseult O'Donoghue ‘It takes a village to raise a child’, if there is any truth in this old African proverb then the children of Kilcullen are luckier than most.  Raising a family presents challenges no matter where you live, however, Kilcullen, despite its lack of a playground, has some great resources and facilities for parents and children. We are a vibrant community and are fortunate to benefit from the work of voluntary organisations who contribute much to the collective good. In the spirit of this service to the community the ‘Carer and Toddler Group’ has been in existence for over fifteen years, under various titles, in various venues. The first children to have attended Kilcullen Carer and Toddler group are now in their teens and since it was established parents, grandparents and childminders have been gathering every week to chat over a coffee and play with their toddlers. The importance of this service to generations of children in Kilcullen cannot be underestimated. Similarly, our gratitude for the commitment and effort of the volunteers who organised and ran the group over the years cannot be overstated.    The format and purpose of Carer and Toddler groups are very simple: they provide a fun and safe venue for play and interaction away from domestic distractions. Every carer is responsible for her or his toddler(s) and all are encouraged to participate and engage with the group as much as they can. The atmosphere is informal and relaxed and the emphasis is on having fun. The children benefit from having a space outside their homes where they can interact socially with other children and learn new skills while remaining close to the assistance and encouragement of their carer. The group provides an informal support network for the carers and is an invaluable source of advice, cooperation and good humour. Whether from comparing hours of sleep, sharing information and experiences or finding consolation for a toddler’s latest ‘phase’, the adult members of the group also benefit. We would like to encourage and welcome the male carers of Kilcullen to attend the group. Being at home with children can be very isolating, particularly if you’ve been used to working, and in these recessionary times, especially with threatened cuts to families’ income in the next Budget looming, attending the Group can provide a sense of solidarity amongst carers and an economical way to entertain the children! For a suggested voluntary donation of €3 per family, (this funds rent, insurance and resources), the group supplies suitable and safe toys, arts, crafts, jigsaws and other activities and juice and cookies for the toddlers and fairly-traded tea and coffee for the carers. Group activities include toddler yoga and a musical session at the end of every gathering. For our Halloween party we will have face-painting, mask making, costumes and spooky treats. Keep a eye on the website www.kilcullentoddlergroup.com for details of upcoming events and we’d love to hear about your experiences of parenting (past, present and future!) in Kilcullen, please email info@kilcullentoddlergroup.com. All babies and toddlers in the community are welcome – just remember to bring your carer!!!