Children's Health, Care and Wellbeing

This programme offers a comprehensive exploration of children’s health, wellbeing and development from pre-conception through early childhood. Designed for learners who wish to work confidently and professionally within Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), the course combines current national policies with best practice approaches to create a strong foundation for high-quality provision.

Pre-conception, Prenatal Care and Early Development 

Learners will examine the role of maternal and paternal pre-conceptual and prenatal care, prematurity, and the assessment and care of the newborn. The programme places particular emphasis on evidence-based practice and draws on national initiatives such as the Nurture Programme – Infant Health and Wellbeing, alongside leading international models. Students will develop an understanding of how developmental delays are identified, how early intervention works in practice, and how co-professionals collaborate to support children and families.

Nurturing Environments and Responsive Care Practices

A key focus of the course is the creation of nurturing, responsive environments for infants and young children. Learners will explore the needs of babies, the importance of high-quality adult–child interactions, and the development of respectful, consistent care routines across home and ECEC settings. Guidance is provided on sleep, SIDS prevention, and supporting children’s growing independence in line with Aistear’s Well-being theme.

Nutrition, Health and Wellbeing in Early Childhood

Nutrition is addressed from a holistic perspective, drawing on the Healthy Eating Guidelines (FSAI 2016) from conception through childhood. The programme includes best practice in breastfeeding, formula feeding and weaning; healthy eating policies for ECEC settings; the prevention of foodborne illness through HACCP; and the identification of nutritional challenges such as food refusal, obesity, allergies and iron deficiency. Consideration is also given to food culture, identity and the socio-economic factors that shape dietary choices.

Child Protection, Safety and Regulatory Frameworks

Children’s safety is a central theme throughout the programme. Learners engage with Children First National Guidance (2017), the Early Years Services Regulations (2016) and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act (2005) to understand their responsibilities in safeguarding, injury prevention, reporting and record-keeping, and the promotion of safe, supportive environments for both children and educators.

By completing this programme, learners will gain the knowledge, skills and professional confidence to support infants and children in ways that are grounded in national policy, informed by current research, and centred on the child’s holistic wellbeing. Graduates will be well prepared to contribute positively within ECEC settings and to work collaboratively with families and allied professionals to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.