Doodle Den
Get involved with Doodle Den, our longest-running and evidence-based literacy programme!
Doodle Den is an after-school literacy programme targeted at children in Senior Infants (aged 5–6 years). The programme focuses on improving children’s literacy through a wide range of fun-filled activities. Part-taking children become immersed in exciting literacy activities three times per week, for 90 minutes, across the academic year. The programme doesn’t stop with the children: engaging parents plays a central role in Doodle Den, which is reflected in parent and family sessions throughout the academic year.
Doodle Den is delivered throughout the academic year in Dublin 24 and nationwide. In addition to Tallaght, the programme has been delivered in Dublin Inner City, Limerick, Carlow, and Wexford.
Is Doodle Den effective?
Yes! We have done extensive research on Doodle Den, including a randomised controlled trial published in 2012, the gold standard for assessing interventions. We found that Doodle Den doesn’t just improve overall literacy; it encourages family library adventures, fuels the love for reading at home, and impacts children’s behaviour and concentration in class.
Doodle Den in Your School
Dublin 24 schools: CDI, through the Area Based Childhood Programme, funds DEIS schools in Dublin 24 to implement Doodle Den. Funding is offered annually, and all DEIS schools in Dublin 24 are informed about Doodle Den provision via email.
Greater Dublin and Nationwide: Schools outside of Dublin 24 can implement Doodle Den with support from CDI. We offer training, a comprehensive programme manual, ongoing quality support, and a dedicated online portal. A funding source should be identified before committing to implementing Doodle Den. Doodle Den costs up to €5,000 per annum, excluding staff salaries, to cover programme materials and to support related activities, e.g., snacks, family day costs, and operating costs.
Please contact Denise Lakes, Literacy and STEAM Coordinator, for further details and information on bringing Doodle Den to your school.
Doodle Den Website
Doodle Den doesn’t have to be offered at school for children to get in on the action. 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!
Denise Lakes: Literacy and STEAM Co-ordinator
Tel: +353 1 414 7362 denise.lakes@cdi.ie