Aistear is the curriculum framework for children from birth to six years in Ireland. It describes learning and
development through the four interconnected themes of Well-being, Identity and Belonging, Communicating, and Exploring and Thinking.
Four sets of guidelines, focusing on different aspects of pedagogy, describe how
the adult can support children’s learning and development across these themes.
These guidelines focus on:
■ Building partnerships between parents and practitioners
■ Learning and developing through interactions
■ Learning and developing through play
■ Supporting learning and development through assessment
Aistear is not a stand-alone subject. It is currently being revised as a programme, with the vision to include it throughout the infant day, as a valuable teaching methodology. Aistear is child-led, focusing on their interests and their natural curiosities. The use of structured play activities, open-ended play and skills development activities, ensure the children are actively learning. The teachers become facilitators, allowing the children to guide their learning. We offer support and lead questioning throughout Aistear, but instead of directing the play and activity, we support the children in their natural inquisition and interest.
Each month, there will be a new theme to explore. Aistear themes have no bounds - there can be play, music, drama, role-play, art, construction, science, ICT, literacy, numeracy and much more. Check back regularly with the Junior Room to hear all about our themes. We would be delighted to include families in our themes through visits from relevant professionals, visitors to share their hobbies/crafts, and a whole school collection of resources and props to further support the learning.
