Inclusion in the Early Years

Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Charter and Guidelines for Early Childhood Care & Education

All children have rights, no matter who they are, where they live, what their parents do, what language they speak, what their religion is, whether they are a boy or girl, what their culture is, whether they have a disability, whether they are rich or poor. No child should be treated unfairly on any basis.

High-quality childcare is a vital factor in a child’s early experiences and holistic development. Participation in inclusive high-quality early childhood settings enhances all children’s early learning experiences. In an inclusive setting there is an awareness and respect for each child’s individual strengths and areas of difficulty. Inclusive settings engage in meaningful collaboration with parents and other professionals to ensure access, equality and full participation for all children.

With the introduction of the updated Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Guidelines and the Access and Inclusion Model for Children with Disabilities, early childhood care and education services are being asked to sign up to a National Inclusion Charter. This Charter has been developed in line with international best practice and has drawn on the experiences of Europe and the USA, as well as Canada and Australia.

https://assets.gov.ie/38186/c9e90d89d94b41d3bf00201c98b2ef6a.pdf

The Access and Inclusion Model – Creating an Inclusive Environment in Preschools:

AIM is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with disabilities can access the Free pre-school (ECCE) programme. AIM is a child-centred model, providing levels of progressive support based on the needs of the child and the pre-school setting.

Resources for Supporting Ukrainian Children & Families

Clare CCC has put together a padlet, which is updated regularly with relevant resources for supporting Ukrainian children & their families now living in Ireland:
Supporting Ukrainian Children & Families in Early Learning & Care and School Age Care, Clare County Childcare Committee Padlet:

https://padlet.com/Clare_CCC/wtq3nsoj9rgssbvz

Supporting your Child to Become Bilingual

Please click on the link below for information for parents on how to support their child to become bilingual.

https://www.aistearsiolta.ie/en/nurturing-and-extending-interactions/resources-for-sharing/supporting-your-child-to-become-bilingual.pdf

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Dear Parents ...

To all the new parents embarking on this incredible journey, remember that you are not alone. Parenthood can be both exhilarating and challenging.

Seek guidance from trusted sources, lean on your support network, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. You've got this—and you're doing an amazing job.

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