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It’s the biggest dilemma facing many working parents at this time of year.
Bridging the after-school care gap was a problem Mia Shepherd knew well when she tried balancing a career with becoming a new mum.
After experiencing the challenges of juggling childcare, career, and the need for social support, the Wicklow mum realised there was no simple, trusted way for parents to connect, share resources, and build local communities themselves.
Driven by her own experience and her passion for community, Mia decided to find her own solution.
She launched PlayDayz four months ago with the goal of making childcare more affordable, accessible, and social. The service is described as Ireland’s first app for parent meet-ups, playdates, and shared childcare.
Mia says that PlayDayz is now thriving, with hundreds of downloads and parents across the country quickly getting the hang of the platform.
“What began as a simple idea to make childcare more community-driven has already blossomed into a supportive network of families helping one another,” the company’s website says.
“Developed in partnership with an award-winning Irish software firm, PlayDayz was created to make childcare more accessible, affordable, and connected.
“Since going live earlier this year, adoption has been strong, with parents turning to PlayDayz not just for practical childcare solutions but also for building friendships.”
PlayDayz helps parents to meet, connect, and share childcare in these safe and simple ways:
Local Playdates
Parents can set up a playdate in seconds by popping details into the app – whether it’s a trip to the park, a coffee morning, or a group play session.
Nearby parents instantly receive a notification with the details and can choose to join. This feature has already led to many successful playdates spread across Ireland, helping children make friends and parents feel more connected.
Childcare Swap (Private Friend Community)
Parents can add trusted friends to a private community and use a turn-based swap system for short-term childcare.
When childcare is needed, a parent inputs the request, which is then sent only to their trusted private group. Friends in the group can choose to accept the request.
For every two childcare requests made, the parent must accept one in return, ensuring balance and encouraging everyone to participate.
Parents also build up childcare credits by accepting requests, which can be used later when they need help.
School Holiday Day-Care Share (Premium)
Designed for school breaks when childcare can be toughest, this feature helps groups of parents in the same locality plan ahead, and enjoy a free childcare solution.
Two weeks before the holidays, an agenda is finalised and shared with parents taking part. A group chat opens, so parents can communicate, swap details, and even meet in advance to ensure everyone feels comfortable.
Care is shared fairly across participating families, giving children more time with friends while easing pressure on parents.
Mia says: “What started as a solution for busy parents like me is already becoming a true community.
“I’m thrilled to see how quickly our communities are growing, and I’m so thankful to every parent who has given our ethos a try.”
The cost of joining after an initial 30-day trial is set at 99c a month with a premium membership costing €1.99 per month.
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