Aistear Literature Review
Aistear, the Irish word for ‘journey’ marks the beginning of children’s lifelong learning journey. This Early Childhood Curriculum Framework has played a critical role in improving Early Childhood Education and Care [ECEC] settings in Ireland since its introduction in 2009. It is the first curriculum framework in Ireland to support children’s learning experiences from birth to six years of age.
Aistear celebrates early childhood as a time of being, and of enjoying and learning from experiences as they unfold. It is underpinned by 12 principles presented in 3 groups:
- Children and their lives in early childhood
- Children’s connections with others
- How children learn and develop
This Literature Review forms one part of the process that contributes to updating Aistear. Consultations with the sector, stakeholders, and critically children from birth to six years forms the other part of updating this literature review for the curriculum.
Literature review to support the updating of Aistear, the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework.
Read more about the principal author: Dr. Geraldine French, School of Language, Literacy and Early Childhood Education, DCU Institute of Education