Ballymun

“What you sow you reap. If you put resources (not just money) into young children and parenting you develop confident, capable parents and adults better able to deal with life’s ups and downs."  (Professional)

Strabane

“Parents need support in their role as parents, I think it is underestimated the work, and the support that’s needed to do it. It is an underrated job. That's why I think Lifestart's needed.” (Parent)

Mid-Ards

“The programme has helped me to be more patient with my child, and to realise that most parents experience the same difficulties with their children.” (Parent)

Enniskillen

“Different approach to discipline and communication, it makes me think before I act instead of reacting to a situation.” (Parent)

Cherry Orchard

“I think that it is a great programme because I now understand what my child is doing and why he is doing it”. (Parent)

Limavady

“Money spent on Lifestart is an investment. It is an investment for the future – for a future generation of adults who have had the opportunity from birth to be part of a programme which will enhance their development and enable them to realise their full potential.”(Professional)

Derry/Strabane

“Before it was looking for the easiest way to get the day over and done with, but now.... I spend time with them and it's easier for them and for me.” (Parent)

Drogheda

“Having house calls once a month to discuss the programme makes you feel you’re doing an important job and my Lifestart visitor gives me and my children great encouragement." (Parent)

Limavady

“Lifestart is a brilliant service. I would be totally lost without it. It has definitely helped with stimulating my child for School. I'm sure that if it weren't for Lifestart that we would not be so motivated and would be constantly worrying about my child's development. The issues are always relevant to my child at each stage. It's almost as if it were designed around him." (Parent)

Edenderry

“Lifestart is user friendly. It takes place in the home. It is not centre-based and this is a big plus for many families. It is not invasive. It is a very supportive service offering a systematic approach for parents.” (Professional)

Lifford/Letterkenny

“I am convinced that money spent on Lifestart is money well spent.If there is not early stimulation and good parenting of children at this very early, crucial stage, children will come to school disadvantaged and the cycle of disadvantage will never be broken.” (Professional)