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Exciting new programme for parents and children in Agherton Parish

Thursday February 20th 2025

New mum Laura and baby Reuben with Naomi Jennings, right, Pioneer Family Wellbeing Coordinator and leader of the Lifestart Growing Child programme at Agherton Parish Church.

Agherton Parish, Portstewart, has launched the Lifestart Growing Child programme, offering a month-by-month curriculum designed to support parents and children from birth to five years old.

Backed by the Church of Ireland Board for Ministry with Children & Families, this evidence-based programme will be available free of charge to parents in the community in which Agherton Parish is based.

The programme will be delivered by Pioneer Family Wellbeing Coordinator Naomi Jennings – you can read Naomi’s story in the spring issue of the Connor diocesan magazine, Connor Connections. Naomi has recently completed her Lifestart training, and will provide practical information, engaging activities, and expert guidance to help parents nurture their child’s physical, intellectual, emotional, and social growth.

The programme is proven to reduce parental stress, strengthen parent-child bonds, and support understanding in areas such as speech, language, problem-solving, self-esteem, and school readiness.

To kick off this exciting new initiative, Agherton Parish will host a Pancake Party on Shrove Tuesday, March 4, at 5pm. This fun community event invites everyone to come together and decorate and enjoy homemade pancakes. It’s an opportunity to connect with other families, learn more about the Lifestart programme, and discover valuable family resources available through Lifestart.

Naomi shared her excitement about the programme and event: “We’re thrilled to partner with Lifestart, an organisation that has truly made a difference for families across Ireland,” she said. “I can’t wait to meet new parents and children and make a positive impact on our community. The pancake party will be a fantastic chance to share more about this programme while having some fun together.”

Through this partnership, Agherton Parish is committed to supporting parents and helping children reach their fullest potential.

For more information or to register your interest, please contact Naomi at aghertonfamily@gmail.com or call 07386 933 959.

For further details about the Lifestart Foundation, visit www.lifestartfoundation.org.

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