Free Baby and Toddler Events Across Cork and Kerry to Mark Infant Mental Health Awareness Week

Parents and carers across Cork and Kerry can enjoy a week of free activities designed to support their little ones' emotional development, as libraries and health services join forces for Infant Mental Health Awareness Week from 9th to 15th June.

The initiative offers families the chance to participate in talks, playgroups, and storytelling sessions, all focused on helping babies and toddlers build strong emotional foundations during their crucial early years.

Libraries throughout both counties are hosting special story times that demonstrate how reading and play contribute to infant development and strengthen parent-child bonds. The events are open to babies, toddlers, expecting parents, and families at no cost.

Rachel Knox, Child Health Programme Development Officer at HSE South West, explained the science behind the initiative:

"A baby's brain grows quickly in the first three years. By three months old, babies can recognise their parents' emotions. By age three, their brain is 80% of its adult size. Every interaction helps shape their future health and happiness. Relationships in these early years set the groundwork for a baby's ability to regulate emotions, form secure relationships, and explore their environment. Strong parent-infant connections shape emotional resilience."

Ella Lovett, Principal Clinical Psychologist with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service at HSE South West, emphasised the importance of early intervention:

"Infant mental health is about how babies develop socially and emotionally from birth to age three. Every experience shapes their future. Babies and toddlers learn to build relationships, regulate their emotions and explore their world based on the care and support they receive. This Infant Mental Health Awareness Week provides us with the opportunity to highlight the importance of supporting babies' emotional wellbeing. Through partnerships with libraries and local organisations, we're offering events where parents can learn about their baby's developing brain and how to support that, as well as opportunities where parents and babies can play, connect, and build strong relationships."

Local parent Laura Crowley from Charleville welcomed the initiative:

"It's wonderful to see events like these recognising the importance of infant mental health. As a parent, knowing there are spaces where we can connect, learn, and support our little ones' development is incredibly reassuring. These moments shape their future, and it's encouraging to be part of a community that values them."

Emer O'Brien, Cork County Librarian, highlighted the role of libraries in early development:

"Libraries are a gateway to learning and connection, starting from the very first days of life. Through storytelling and shared reading, babies and toddlers build essential emotional and social foundations. We are delighted to be part of Infant Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, highlighting the power of books, play, and shared moments in nurturing young minds."

The full schedule of events is available at https://bit.ly/IMHWeek25