Your go-to guide to preparing your kids for An Gaeltacht
Make sure you check emails/ letters that the Gaeltacht College would have sent, as some may send a list of activities they have planned to do. This will give you an insight into what type of clothing or shoes your child may need.
Below, we've put together a list of, perhaps obvious, but essential things that your kids will definitely need while they're away!
Checklist Below
Clothing
- Raincoat/windbreaker (Many Gaeltachts bring groups on walks up mountains/hills/forests and day trips - you never know with Irish weather when it will rain or let the sunshine)
- Sportswear
- Runners (an extra pair is advised)
- Pyjamas
- Themed outfits for the céilís (Themes: black and white, multi-coloured, county colours. A small pack of face paints will go a long way)
- Jeans, tops, shoes etc.
- Towels (Microlight towels are great for saving space while packing - we recommend checking out Decathalon online, as they have a good range)
- Swimming togs (Whether the Gaeltacht is near a beach or not - some colleges that are further inland, may still participate in water activities)
- Slippers
- Face masks
Miscellaneous
- Gumshield
- High visibility jacket
- Netted laundry bag
- Toilet bag and toiletries
- Writing materials- copybook, dictionary, pens etc.
- Hand sanitiser
- Wetsuit (If the College has said they will do water sports)
- Lunch box and drink bottle
- Toothbrush
- Backpack for school supplies
- Sunscreen (Water-resistant sunscreen products are great even when your kids are not in the water but sweating a lot from playing sports!) Check out our sunscreen range here!
- Money (Many Gaeltachts have ways to keep their money safe and they often have tuck shops or a shop nearby to allow kids to grab something every now and then)
- Football boots
- Musical Instruments
Last Checks
- Make sure the course balance has been paid prior to their departure.
- Do they require any health checks/declaration forms to be signed?
- Travel arrangements booked - are they getting on a bus organised by the college to get there or do you have to make your own arrangements?
- Make sure you have contacts (phone numbers/emails) of an Fír/Bean an Tí and of the college too.
- Does your child need any medication to be brought with them (even if it is antihistamines, paid killers, sprays, etc.)?
Most of all, make sure your child is excited and looking forward to their trip! This is a great opportunity for them to make new friends, make great memories, have fun, and especially for you to get a rest for a few weeks! Enjoy it!
