About the Initiative

A Unique Community Initiative

“It Takes a Village” is a community-wide initiative dedicated to the well-being of primary school children in Greystones and Delgany. Launched in response to genuine concerns raised by teachers and parents about increasing anxiety levels among children, the initiative quickly gained support and now operates in collaboration with all eight primary schools in the Greystones and Delgany communities, along with support from principals of three local secondary schools and a dedicated team of community volunteers.

Through collaboration and community engagement, “It Takes a Village” seeks to create a nurturing environment for children, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to thrive in today's challenging landscape. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our young students, fostering resilience and well-being in our community.

Mission and Goals
The mission of “It Takes a Village” is to provide children, parents, guardians, and teachers with key skills for well-being and digital awareness. A key goal is to secure two community play therapists who will offer support to primary school children, their families, and educators across participating schools. Additionally, we offer practical support by organizing seminars and parent talks in partnership with child well-being and digital awareness experts. We are also developing a digital passport pilot project for 6th-class students to promote internet safety.

Community Engagement
The initiative strives to foster a strong sense of community, focusing on the healthy development and well-being of children in the area. Part of the initiative is the implementation of the ‘Voluntary No Mobile Device Code’, which has been adopted by all participating primary schools. This initiative has attracted attention from parent associations both nationally and internationally, generating media coverage from various countries around the world including the UK, North America, Europe, India, and Australia. “It Takes a Village” is an independent initiative that operates under the umbrella of Greystones Town Team CLG.

Recognition and Support
"It Takes a Village" has received local and national recognition from government officials including Taoiseach Simon Harris, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, Minister for Education Norma Foley, and Minister of State at the Department of Health Mary Butler.

 

Additionally, local political representatives such as Jennifer Whitmore TD and Wicklow councillors, have expressed their support for the initiative.