The importance of peer support for children with dyspraxia was highlighted at the launch of a new holiday club initiative by Minister for Disability and Galway West TD Hildegarde Naughton.

Cairde Club provides children with dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder with a chance to meet their peers and enjoy activities together in an inclusive atmosphere while also allowing parents to meet, and receive support from, other parents whose children may also have Dyspraxia/DCD.

The initiative is part of Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland’s POTTS programme; a new telehealth occupational therapy service aimed at reducing waiting times for children.

The first Cairde Club event was hosted in Glendeer Pet Farm on the Roscommon side of Athlone, where families spent the day got to experience a fun and inclusive event is designed especially for children with DCD.

Minister Naughton said she was thrilled to officially launch this new dyspraxia holiday club, Cairde Club, which she described as ‘a safe, supportive space where children with dyspraxia can connect, have fun, and build confidence among peers who truly understand their experiences’.

“Peer support is incredibly important for children with dyspraxia, helping reduce feelings of isolation and boosting social and emotional development,” she said.

“This initiative is proudly supported by our new pilot telehealth occupational therapy service, POTTS, which I am confident will play a crucial role in reducing waiting times and provide earlier intervention for families in need.”

CEO of Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland, Sharon Lane, spoke of the importance of such events.

“Not alone will our Cairde Cub days allow children with dyspraxia/DCD to enjoy inclusive, fun-filled days centred around their needs but these days also provide a much-needed opportunity to connect with other parents of children with Dyspraxia/DCD in a relaxed and friendly environment,” she said.

She also thanked Minister Naughton and the Department of Children, Disability and Equality for their support to date for the POTTS programme and looked forward to continuing to build on the services offered by Dyspraxia Ireland.

Further information for families wishing to avail of the POTTS programme can be found at: Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland – POTTS / Occupational Therapy Services.

Pictured: Minister Hildegarde Naughton pictured during the recent Cairde Club launch by Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland in Glendeer Pet Farm.