Parents asked to focus on kids today

Today is National Children’s Day and parents are being urged to put the spotlight on children.

A number of special events are taking place around the country with the largest crowd expected in St Stephen's Green in Dublin where a party for children of all ages is being held.

Sally Keaveney, managing director of National Children's Day is urging people to take part in the celebrations and spend time with their kids in whatever way they can.

She said: "Sometimes Sundays are the days that we use for catching up or housework or doing whatever.

"We're just asking for this one Sunday, National Children's Day, to get out of the house and come down to Stephen's Green or to your local area, wherever the activities are happening, or even have a party in your own house if you cant make it out.

"But stop everything, down tools, and concentrate and focus on the children for one day," she added.