Government initiatives and early years support groups

Aistear

Aistear is the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework in Ireland that emphasizes early childhood as a crucial phase of being, where children enjoy and learn from their experiences. It establishes foundational principles for lifelong learning.

Aistear celebrates early childhood

Aistear positions early childhood as a vital time for children to discover, engage with, and learn from their surroundings, acknowledging their need for exploration and meaningful experiences.

Home

Refers to the child's primary environment, where learning and interactions begin.

Government Initiatives and Early Years Support Agencies

Programs established by the government and other organizations to promote and support quality care and education in early childhood settings.

Aistear: the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework

A framework that provides a structured approach to early learning in Ireland, focusing on the holistic development of young children and guiding educators in practice.

The first group concerning children and their lives in early childhood

This group highlights essential aspects of children's identities and their experiences during early childhood.

the child's uniqueness

Recognizes each child's individual strengths, interests, and learning styles.

equality and diversity

Promotes the importance of recognizing and respecting differences among children, including cultural and personal diversity.

children as citizens

Empowers children to understand their role and significance within their families, communities, and society.

The second group concerning children's connections with others

Focuses on the relationships that children build with family, peers, and educators, which are vital for their social development.

relationships

The bonds and interactions children form with others, crucial for their emotional and social growth.

parents, family, and community

Acknowledges the influence of family dynamics and community interactions on a child's learning and development.

the adult's role

Describes the responsibilities of parents and educators in supporting children's growth, engagement, and learning.

The third group concerning how children learn and develop

Examines the processes and experiences that foster children's learning and growth.

holistic learning and development

Emphasizes the interconnectedness of various aspects of development—social, emotional, physical, and cognitive.

active learning

Learning that involves hands-on participation and exploration, allowing children to engage fully with their environment.

play and hands-on experiences

Highlights the significance of play as a central component of learning, fostering creativity and problem-solving.

relevant and meaningful experiences

Stresses the importance of learning activities that connect to children's real-life contexts and interests.

communication and language

Focuses on developing children's abilities to express themselves and understand others, essential for cognitive and social development.

the learning environment

Refers to the physical and emotional contexts in which children learn, including the settings, resources, and interactions that influence their experience.

Well-being

The overall state of health, happiness, and emotional stability in children, fundamental to their learning and development.

Identity and Belonging

The sense of self and connection children feel towards their communities and families, integral to their development.

Communicating

The process through which children share ideas, emotions, and experiences, crucial for their linguistic development.

Exploring and Thinking

Encourages curiosity and critical thinking, allowing children to ask questions and seek answers about the world around them.

Aistear framework document

The official guide that outlines the principles, themes, and implementation strategies of Aistear.

Síolta

Síolta is the National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education in Ireland, focused on ensuring high standards in early learning and care.

Full and Part-time Daycare

Types of childcare services that offer varying hours of care for children to support working parents.

Childminding

Care provided by individuals in their own homes, offering personalized attention for children.

Sessional services

Early childhood programs that operate for limited hours each day.

Infant classes in primary schools

Classes designed primarily for younger children, typically before they enter full primary education.

Síolta Principles, Standards and Components of Quality

The framework's guidelines and benchmarks that define quality in early years education and how to achieve it.

Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures

A comprehensive national policy framework aimed at improving the lives of children, young people, and families in Ireland.

First 5

A ten-year government strategy designed to enhance early childhood experiences and support for families.

National Childcare Scheme

A government initiative providing financial support to help families with childcare costs, ensuring accessibility and affordability.

Together for Better

A funding model that integrates multiple early childhood services and seeks to foster partnerships between providers and the government.