Early Childhood Education
Aistear: the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework is published here. Click on the Aistear logo below or on any page to access the curriculum framework.
Introduction
Aistear is the new curriculum framework for all children from birth to six years across the range of early childhood settings in Ireland. It provides information, ideas and suggestions to help you support children's learning and development in these early years.
Aistear has four elements:
- Principles and Themes describes children's learning and development
- Guidelines for Good Practice focuses on partnerships with parents, interactions, play and assessment
- User Guide gives practical information about using the Framework
- Key Messages summarises important points from research used in developing Aistear.
Aistear was developed in partnership with the early childhood sector and supports many other developments including Síolta, The National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education (2006), the Child Care (Pre-School) Regulations (2006) and the Primary School Curriculum (1999).
Where can I get a copy of Aistear?
Aistear is not available in hard copy.
Click on the Aistear logo above to access the curriculum framework.
Aistear is also published on CD ROM. If you are working in an early childhood setting and would like a copy of the CD, see the details below of how and where you can get a copy.
| Practitioner participating in the Pre-School Year Initiative | Your setting will receive a copy of the Aistear CD between November '09 and January '10 as part of a mailing from the Childcare Directorate (OMCYA). |
| Practitioner not participating in the Pre-School Year Initiative | Your setting can pick up a copy of the Aistear CD when you visit your local City/County Childcare Committee. |
| Childminder | Your setting can pick up a copy of the Aistear CD when you visit your local City/County Childcare Committee. |
| Primary school teacher working with junior and/or senior infants | Your school can pick up a copy of the Aistear CD when you visit your local Education Centre. |
| Parents and others | You can take a look at Aistear on a CD when you visit your nearest main county library. |
Related links
Childcare (Pre-School) Regulations
Department of Education and Science
Free Pre-school Year Initiative
Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs
Primary School Curriculum
Primary Curriculum Review
Síolta, the National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education
Diversity and equality guidelines for childcare providers