Key philosophers and educational pioneers: Comenius, Locke, Rousseau, Pestalozzi, Froebal, Steiner, Susan Isaacs, Margaret and Rachel McMillan, Montessori, Malaguzzi. Influences on contemporary practice

Influence of European ideas since 17th century on Irish Early Childhood provision. Changing constructions of the child and childhoods; debates and different curricular approaches for young children; evolution of early childhood education and care and influences on contemporary practice.

Early children’s rights pioneers - Janusz Korczac, Ellen Key, Eglantyne Jebb. History of children’s rights movement in 20th century. Key principles and provisions of the UNCRC, influence on Irish law and policy, child-rights based approach in early childhood education and care contexts, models of child participation-Shier, Lansdown, Lundy, Lancaster. Participatory practices in early childhood settings. Connecting theory and practice.

Theories, types, stages, patterns and purposes of play both indoors and outdoors. Introduction to playful, nurturing interactions with babies; Magda Gerber, educare, Elinor Goldschmeid, treasure baskets, heuristic play, key person approach. Learning through play, Tina Bruce, loose parts play, early literacy and numeracy, the role of the adult (parent and early childhood educator).Connecting theory and practice

Uniqueness and centrality of early childhood as a distinct phase; the individuality of the child; nurturing child’s sense of identity and belonging; child-centred learning; play and holistic learning and development; partnership with families, active hands-on learning, enquiry-based learning based on child’s interests, diversity, equality and inclusion, respectful, reciprocal relationships, safety, wellbeing and welfare of children; core themes, aims and goals of Aistear and application in practice; Core principles and standards of Siolta. Connecting theory and practice

Introduction to code of professional responsibilities and ethics. Perspectives on high quality care, education and practice. Reflecting on the complex roles and responsibilities of the early childhood educator. Principles and functions of reflective practice; continuous review and evaluation of learning; theory, knowledge, practice, influence of Dewey; Application to practice using reflective practice cycles: Schon; Gibbs; Reflective writing style.