The Aistear Framework is a vital component of early childhood education in Ireland, designed to support children’s learning and development from birth to six years. For parents, understanding this framework is essential as it underpins the approach we take to foster holistic growth—socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically.
Aistear emphasizes that early education is a crucial part of a child's learning journey. We endeavour to create a rich, play-based learning environment in each of our infant classrooms where children can explore, discover, and learn at their own pace. This child-centered approach recognises that young children learn best through active engagement with their world, especially through play, conversations, and interactions with others.
The framework is built around four key themes:
Wellbeing - Supporting children's happiness, confidence, and sense of belonging.
Identity and Belonging - Helping children develop a strong sense of self, family, and community.
Communicating - Enhancing children's language, literacy, and social skills.
Exploring and Thinking - Encouraging curiosity, problem-solving, and understanding of the world.
By integrating Aistear into the curriculum, we aim to provide a foundation that nurtures children's natural curiosity and sets the stage for lifelong learning. For parents, knowing that Aistear guides your child's early school experience can provide reassurance that their individual needs, interests, and well-being are at the heart of their education.