In recent years there has been an increase in the interest in play and the influence it has on learning: Masters in Primary Education Dissertation, HC, Ireland

In recent years, there has been an increase in the interest in play and the influence it has on learning (Holmes, Gardner, Kohm, Bant, Ciminello, Moedt, & Romeo, 2017). Research has been carried out on the relationship between play and learning. Theorists such as Piaget, Vygotsky, Froebel, and Montessori have developed theories emphasizing the importance of play in Early Childhood Education (ECE) as a developmentally appropriate stimulus for learning and education (Rogers & Evans, 2008).

The term Aistear is taken from the Irish language and translates to ‘journey’. Aistear helps early educators to guide children’s learning and development. The Framework outlines the important learning experiences for the children and gives suggestions and ideas on how an adult, whether a parent or teacher, can nurture these experiences. Aistear explores many areas of early childhood education including what and how children should learn, the importance of making connections during learning, the necessity of teacher and parent relationship and communication, the need to develop curriculum and materials for the child’s learning, and how learning occurs in various settings and times in a child’s life (NCCA, 2009).

Aistear can be used in a range of different settings including childminding settings, full and part-time daycare settings, and infant classes in Primary school, and in the child’s home. The aim is to help the child “grow and develop as competent and confident learners An area of learning that is believed to be significantly developed by play is language.