Aistear: Effective Short-Term Planning
Section 1: Understanding Aistear: The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework Aistear, the national curriculum framework for children from birth to six years in Ireland, is a pioneering approach to early childhood education. It emphasises the crucial role of play, relationships, and communication in children’s learning and development. Aistear’s framework is designed to support children’s well-being, identity […]
Anti-Bias Education is Who We Are: Fostering REAL Diversity in your Classroom
Understanding the Importance of Anti-Bias Education Though our world is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, languages, and beliefs, interconnected by the threads of shared human experience, it is also a place marked by disparities and prejudices. Anti-bias education is an essential tool to combat these issues head-on, fostering a more harmonious, inclusive, and just society. But what exactly […]
The Power of Silence in Child-Led Learning: A Guide for Early Childhood Educators
The Benefits of Silence in Child-Led Learning When we consider education, often what leaps to mind is an animated teacher guiding lessons, lively class discussions, or interactive group activities. Yet, one fundamental, but commonly overlooked, element is silence. Far from being a sign of boredom or disinterest, quietude can be a potent tool in child-led learning, fostering […]
Early Childhood Curriculum: Froboel, Montessori, HighScope, Forest Schools, Te Whāriki and the Curiosity Approach Explained
This article focuses on early childhood curriculum (diverse curricula in early childhood education and care). We discuss the key contributions of the following curricula and approaches to early childhood education and care: Frobel Montessori HighScope Forest Schools Te Whāriki The Curiosity Approach Early childhood curriculum and pedagogy refer to the principles, theories, and practices that […]
How to Talk to Children About Difficult Topics: Quick + Effective Tips
Discussing challenging subjects with children can feel uncomfortable, given their innocence and stage of development. However, it is a crucial aspect of their emotional development, allowing them to grow into well-rounded individuals. This article provides educators with a series of tips and practical examples for addressing difficult topics with in children an effective and sensitive […]
How to Teach Socially Responsible Children
The Importance of Social Responsibility Social responsibility, although a significant concept in many advanced societies, can be overlooked within the home and in educational settings, although, these conversations are becoming more commonplace. Still, raising socially responsible children contributes to children’s personal development and for the betterment of society. Parents are in the perfect position to […]
Understanding Your Parenting Style
You may not know it, but your parenting style can have a profound influence on your child’s development, bearing implications which can last into a child’s adulthood. There are primarily four key parenting styles, each with its unique characteristics and potential implications on a child’s behaviour and development. These styles include authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and […]
Strategies to Foster Independent Learning in Early Years
The Importance of Independent Learning in Early Childhood Education Recognising independent learning as a key ingredient in early childhood education is the first step towards fostering an environment conducive to growth and development. Independent learning is when children take the responsibility for at least some of their learning experiences and education, setting their own goals, determining […]
Promoting Early Literacy: A Guide for Early Childhood Teachers
The Importance of Early Literacy Early literacy is more than just being able to read; it’s a multifaceted skill that sets the foundation for a child’s overall academic and personal development. When children are introduced to literacy concepts from a young age, they stand to gain advantages that extend well beyond knowing alphabets and simple words. In the […]
