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CDI News Update November 2024
We hope this newsletter finds you well. In this newsletter, we’re excited to share the latest news and updates from the Childhood Development Initiative. Read on to discover how we’re continuing to drive positive change in communities across Ireland.
Shaping Futures: Groundbreaking Results Shared at CDI Conference
CDI, Tusla PPFS, and the Area Based Childhood (ABC) Programme recently co-hosted the “Shaping Futures: Prevention and Early Intervention Conference” on 17th October 2024, held at the Aisling Hotel in Dublin 8. The event coincided with the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, reinforcing the organisations’ commitment to tackling child poverty and creating a brighter future for children in Ireland.
The conference served as a crucial platform to present and discuss the findings of the National ABC Outcomes Framework, which measures the impact of prevention and early intervention strategies across Ireland. Attendees gained valuable evidence and insights on effective early intervention approaches.
Find out more on our website.
Community Safety Partnership: Marian Quinn Appointed as Chair
We are delighted to announce that our CEO, Marian Quinn, has been appointed as Chairperson of the South Dublin Local Community Safety Partnership, as announced by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD. This is an important step towards enhancing safety and well-being in our communities.
Under Marian’s leadership, the partnership will bring together the Local authority, the Gardaí, public services, voluntary groups, and community members to address key issues like anti-social behaviour, improved street lighting, waste management, and access to services. With the backing of the Community Safety Fund, the partnership is poised to make a lasting impact.
Doodle Den: Igniting Literacy in Young Minds
Doodle Den is CDI’s after-school literacy programme for 5–6-year-olds, which empowers children in communities across Ireland. The 90-minute sessions, held three times per week, immerse participants in captivating, fun-filled activities to boost their literacy skills.
Recognising the crucial role of parental engagement, Doodle Den integrates family sessions throughout the academic year. This collaborative approach fosters a supportive environment for children’s learning.
Expanding from its origins in Dublin 24, the programme now reaches children in Dublin 1 and Dublin 7, with 17 groups operating in the 2024/25 school year. Doodle Den’s success lies in its ability to transform young minds, igniting a passion for reading, writing, and creative expression.
The Doodle Den website has many games and activities that any child aged between five and seven can enjoy with the help of a parent or other adult! Visit it and discover Doodle Den Island!
Real Stories, Real Change: Case studies — Restorative Practices in Action
We’re excited to share our latest case studies on the impact of Restorative Practices (RP) in communities, schools, and workplaces. Each case study reveals how RP is being used to transform lives, create safer environments, and build stronger, more connected communities. By using Restorative Practices, individuals are fostering respectful communication, resolving conflicts peacefully, and empowering others to do the same.
Don’t miss out on these powerful stories and many more, including how RP is transforming schools, youth centres, and even creative spaces. Visit our website to access the full collection of case studies.
Welcome to Our New Starters
We are pleased to welcome several new members to the CDI team:
– Miranda Curry joins us as our Data Specialist, who is responsible for researching and evaluating the impact of our programmes.
Candace Santos Sweeney, Chloe Cashman, and Claire Reid have joined our Powerful Parenting team as Parent Carer Facilitators, working across our various initiatives.
You can meet them and the rest of our talented team on our website.
Upskill with Restorative Practices
As the evenings grow darker, it’s the perfect time to invest in new skills. Join our Getting Started with Restorative Practices course to gain proven tools for building stronger relationships and resolving conflicts effectively.
For those looking to deepen their expertise, CDI offers an intensive three-day Restorative Practices Facilitation Skills. This course prepares practitioners to lead restorative circles, facilitate problem-solving meetings, and guide transformative conferences—empowering them to create lasting change in their communities.
Visit our Training Calendar to explore these and other upcoming courses.