The National Healthy Childhood Programme

Updated booklet: Safe sleep for your baby - reduce the risk of cot death

The popular Safe sleep for your baby - reduce the risk of cot death booklet has been updated and reprinted. You can download a copy here, or order print copies through healthpromotion.ie

Introduction

Over 63,000 babies are born in the State every year and, as children (under 18 years) account for 25% of the Irish population, we have the youngest population in the EU.

The Health Service Executive, through the delivery of The National Healthy Childhood Programme, has a key role in supporting families so these babies can fully realise their potential into adulthood.

From birth to their 14th birthday each child will have had at least 22 contacts with the health service as part of the Programme – that is 1.5 million opportunities to “Make Every Contact Count”

Making every contact count is important - investment in the early years of life, starting from conception, creates the best outcomes for children, providing the foundations for health over their lifetime.  Early intervention and prevention has a positive impact on children's health, social and educational development and offers the best chance of living a happy and fulfilled life.

Our Work

Winter Illness resources

Publications and child health information

Newsletters (twice-yearly)

Some of the child health information available on www.hse.ie