Child Paths, Ireland’s leading provider of childcare management software, was founded to give parents a greater insight into their child’s learning and development.

The service allows childcare providers to send updates to parents throughout the day while keeping files and paperwork on one system.

This year, to recognise the work being provided by childcare services and workers across Ireland, Child Paths organised the Giving Back campaign which culminated in an awards ceremony before Christmas.

The overall winner was awarded to Dún Beag Crèche in Reddington, Co Galway in recognition of its exceptional dedication to quality early education and care. The award honours the incredible work of the team, who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing environment for children and their families.

With 20 staff and 120 children attending, Dún Beag owner Phyllis Reddington says the award is a great recognition for the work they do.

“Childcare gets a lot of bad press but so many providers go above and beyond,” says Phyllis

In January 2022, a child joined the crèche after their family moved from Brazil. At 13 months of age, the child’s mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She fought a hard battle before passing away in August this year.

With his father torn between spending time with his dying wife in hospital and looking after his son in Dunmore, the crèche staff stepped in to make sure this child’s needs were met in every single way. They looked after this little boy during the crèche hours, and outside of the facility too.

“My sister Janet who is the manager along with five other local women started a rota and brought him home every day. The Child Paths facility was fantastic as it meant his mum could log on and see everything he was doing while she was in hospital,” says Phyllis.

Cork took home two prizes with Tigers Childcare in Douglas, scooping second place, while Highcare Childcare in Ballincollig, was awarded third place.

“The teams we honoured inspire and shape young minds daily. This campaign is more than a recognition, it’s a tribute to their creativity, commitment, and the positive impact they make on children’s lives,” says Ciaran Flynn, CEO of Child Paths.

See childpaths.ie