Our Vision

Every child gets a loving, secure and stimulating start in life.

Our Mission

Enabling the provision of quality early childhood care and education in Ireland, with positive outcomes for children.

Our Ethos

We believe that early childhood is a critical period for the nurturing of each individual child’s curiosity, resilience, creativity, confidence and potential.

We believe that every child has a right to a childhood that is loving, secure and stimulating.

We are a professional, caring member organisation that works collaboratively to champion our vision and realise our mission.

Who We Are

Early Childhood Ireland is a member organisation open to all those who share our vision.

These include:

• Owners/managers and staff of early childhood care and education services

• Professionals working in the early childhood care and education sector

• Students who are developing their skills and knowledge about childcare

• Researchers and policy-makers who influence the quality, availability and range of early childhood care and education services.

• Parents and relations of children.

What We Do

Early Childhood Ireland supports and represents the people who play a role in the development, delivery and oversight of early childhood care and education in Ireland, and prioritises the interests of children.

Early Childhood Ireland:

• Provides professional support and training for early childhood care and education providers

• Contributes to research and public policy development.

• Promotes quality, accessible childcare for all children

• Explores and evaluates innovative and creative child-centred approaches to childcare

Early Childhood Ireland Strategic Plan

Download a copy of our Strategic Plan which  the shared goals of the Board of Directors, members and staff to provide access to quality early childhood care and education services. The plan demonstrates the inspiring potential of Early Childhood Ireland and reflects exceptional adaptability and flexibility in a changing environment.

Contacting Early Childhood Ireland

If you are not sure who you need to contact regarding your query please visit the Staff Contact page which lists the various directorates in the organisation, along with their contact details.