Naíscoil Ghreanacháin
Play and Curriculum policy
Within Naíscoil Ghreanacháin play is an integral part of our early years’ provision. All children are
supported in developing their own potential at their own pace. Our keyworker system enables us to
ensure a planned curriculum tailored to the needs of the individual child. By means of developmentally
appropriate play activities and a high level of individual adult input, we deliver a broad and balanced
curricular programme in line with Pre-school Curricular Guidance
(Pre-school aged children) and Birth to Three Matters (0-3 age group). Play is also considered to be the
most effective and natural way of immersing children in the Irish language speech, language and
communication skills
Through a wide ranging carefully planned programme of play we endeavour to ensure effective
curriculum delivery and to ensure that all our children are happy and that the development of their
speech, language and communication skills, sense of wellbeing and esteem are supported.
Our practice is underpinned by the principles of early years (Tina Bruce) and play work (Playboard) and
recognises that children and young people’s capacity for positive development is enhanced if given
access to the broadest range of environments and play opportunities.
Tarlóidh forbairt teanga an pháiste le:
Children’s language development will occur when:
Small and large groups of children are encouraged to extend their vocabulary and fluency by talking and
listening, and by hearing and responding to stories and rhymes. Children are helped to understand that
written symbols carry meaning, to be aware of the purposes of writing and, when they are ready, to use
drawn and written symbols for themselves. A well-stocked book corner gives every child the opportunity
and encouragement to become familiar with books, able to handle them and be aware of their uses, both
for reference and as a source of stories and pictures.
Forbairt Phearsanta, Shóisialta agus Mhothúchánach
Personal, emotional and social development:
All children have their own likes and dislikes; some are timid while others are extrovert. Within a
nurturing environment, children are individually supported in developing confidence, autonomy and
self-respect. They are encouraged to work and concentrate independently and also to take part in the life
of the group, sharing and cooperating with other children and adults. Through activities, conversation
and practical example, they learn acceptable ways to express their own feelings and to have respect for
the feelings of others. All children are given the opportunity, as appropriate, to take responsibility for
themselves and also for the group, its members and its property.
2
Taithí Réamh-Mhatamataice
Early mathematics experiences:
By means of adult supported practical experience, children become familiar with the sorting, matching,
ordering, sequencing and counting activities that form the basis for early mathematics. As they use their
developing mathematical understanding to solve practical problems, children are assisted to learn and
use the vocabulary of mathematics, identifying objects by shape, position, size, volume and number.
Songs, games and picture books help children become aware of number sequences an, when they are
ready, to use simple mathematical operations such as adding.
An Domhan Thart Orainn
The world around us
Children often ask questions and they are curious about their environment and the people around them.
A wide range of stimulating play experiences allows children to explore and experiment with a range of
natural and manufactured materials. They learn to observe the features of objects and substances,
recognising differences, patterns and similarities, and to share and record their findings. Children are
assisted in exploring and understanding their environment, both within the Naíscoil and in the wider
community. A range of safe and well maintained equipment enables children to extend their
technological understanding, using simple tools and techniques as appropriate to achieve their intentions
and to solve problems.
Forbairt Fhisiceach agus Gluaiseachta
Physical development:
Children enjoy physical play both indoors and outdoors. A range of equipment and opportunities, both
indoors and out of doors allows children to develop confidence and enjoyment in the use and
development in their own bodily skills. A very high level of adult supervision enables children to create
and meet physical challenges safely, developing increasing skill and control in moving, climbing and
balancing. At the same time, children are supported in the development of fine motor skills required to
use tools, including pens, and pencils, and to handle small objects with increasing control and precision.
3
Na hEalaíona
The Arts:
Children are encouraged to use a wide range of resources in order to express their own ideas and feelings
and to construct their individual response to experience in two and three dimensions. Creative play using
art equipment, including paint, glue, crayons and pencils as well as natural and discarded resources,
provides for open-ended exploration of colour, shape and texture and the development of skills in
painting, drawing and collage. Children join in with and respond to music and stories, and there are many
opportunities for imaginative role-play and to make music. They develop quickly a sense of rhythm and
delight in it.
Policy reviewed and agreed by the Committee of Naíscoil Ghreanacháin at a meeting on:
Date:
Witnessed by:
Position on committee:
