Aistear is the early childhood curriculum framework for all children from birth to 6 years in Ireland. The framework uses four interconnected themes to describe children’s learning and development: Well-being; Identity and Belonging; Communicating; and Exploring and Thinking.
What is aistear based on?Aistear is based on the premise that children learn in various environments: the home, pre-school, primary school and within the community (French, 2007; NCCA, 2009a. (2009a). Aistear: The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework, principle and themes.
What is aistear play?Aistear’s principle on play and hands-on experiences says, Much of children’s early learning and development takes place through play and hands-on experiences. … These interactions with, for example, other children, adults, materials, events and ideas are key to the child’s well-being, development and learning.
Below are some samples of how Aistear looks in the classroom – you will note many, many smiles
September/October 2023
Aistear: The Construction Site!
The current building work has captured the curiosity and imagination of jnr and snr infants and they are exploring The Construction Site in Aistear. Some future quantity surveyors in our midst! Only a few weeks until we move in to our new rooms!
The Weather! February 2023
Check out the pure joy in junior infants’ faces!! Making snow and clouds! This topic was a hit!
ARCTIC AISTEAR!
Hallowe’en Aistear!
Who doesn’t love this time of year? Teachers and students alike love it as it is thematically so rich with so much scope for meaningful teaching and learning
Aistear Theme: Autumn
Senior infants have an autumn market in their dramatic play area selling pumpkin soups, hot chocolate, and warm clothes to keep them warm!
Their junk art area is being used to make birds nests
The construction area is being used to create shelter for the animals in the colder months
The sensory tray has been filled with soil, gardening tools, and lots of materials found in the garden.
Aistear Theme: School
We definitely have some budding teachers, SNAs and principals in junior infants!
THE CAMPSITE
How much fun is this Aistear theme? Toasting marshmallows and contemplating life over the campfire! Great fun with the bug hunt also!
AISTEAR – FUN WITH PLANTING!
Lucky senior infants and 1st class had great fun learning with Carmel this week as they sewed peas and cornflower seeds! They love the feel of soil in their hands and are looking forward to seeing them grow!
Fun learning about the doctors’ surgery! 
Water and pirates! 
Water and pirates!
Aistear in December is so much fun with role play at Santa’s workshop, Lego construction, cutting and play dough for fine motor skills and Jaggo blocks for gross motor skills!