The DCEDIY Website contains information on Childcare Regulations, Affordable Childcare Scheme (ACS), ECCE Programme, CCS Programme, TEC Programme, Access and Inclusion Model (AIM),
National Guidelines for Childminders, City / County Childcare Committees, Qualifications,
Inspections, Diversity & Equality Guidelines for Childcare Providers
The Child and Family Agency, TUSLA, was established on the 1st January 2014 and is now the dedicated State agency responsible for improving wellbeing and outcomes for children. It represents the most comprehensive reform of child protection, early intervention and family support services ever undertaken in Ireland. The Tusla Website has a section dedicated to Early Years Providers.
Better Start is a Quality Development initiative of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA), collaborating with the Early Years Education Policy Unit of the Department of Education and Skills (DES) and works to establish a cohesive approach to quality across the Early Childhood Education and Care sector in Ireland. Better Start is hosted by Pobal on behalf of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.
The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) allows children with a disability to access additional supports in their free preschool years. This does not require a formal diagnosis, rather each child will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
If you have a concern about your child’s development contact the preschool your child will attend, well in advance of your child’s start-date, to discuss the AIM programme.
Barnardos mission is to deliver services and work with families, communities, and our partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences.