About Stepping Stones

Our mission

At Stepping Stones, our mission is to provide safe and nurturing child care services that promote child development, independence and growth.

We strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where each child feels loved, valued and respected.

What we teach

Here at Stepping Stones, our curriculum is play- based, child led, flexible and inclusive. We follow the Aistear and Siolta curriculum, teaching well-being, identity and belonging, communicating and exploring and thinking, with a strong emphasis on family involvement.

Our teaching philosophy

Our approach has been formulated by childhood learning experts who focus on building independence, resilience and a love of learning in every child.

They will feel safe and supported

Children learn best, when they feel loved, known and valued.

Learn through play

From mud pies to counting games, play builds real-world skills.

Led by their interests

We follow your child's curiosity to spark meaningful discovery.

Family partnerships

You're part of their learning journey, every step of the way.

Child-to-Carer Ratios

At Stepping Stones, we strictly adhere to all best practices and standards regarding the ratio of children to carers. Maintaining appropriate ratios is essential for ensuring that each child receives the individual attention and care they need at every stage of development.

Full-Time Care Ratios

· 0–1 year: 1 carer for every 3 children

· 1–2 years: 1 carer for every 5 children

· 2–3 years: 1 carer for every 6 children

· 3–6 years: 1 carer for every 8 children

ECCE (Early Childhood Care and Education) – 3 Hours Daily

· 2 years & 8 months – 6 years: 1 carer for every 11 children

School Age Childcare

· 4 years & 6 months – 15 years: 1 carer for every 11 children

Our Meals

Fresh fruit and a variety of drinks are readily available for everyone throughout the day, ensuring that children can enjoy healthy snacks whenever they need them.

All meals provided are carefully planned and prepared in accordance with our Healthy Eating Policy. This policy, which outlines our commitment to balanced nutrition, can be found in the Parents Handbook for your reference.

We are committed to meeting the individual needs of every child, so all dietary requirements are fully catered for, ensuring that everyone enjoys safe and suitable meals and snacks during their time with us.

Daily Meal Times

.Breakfast served Up to 9am

.Morning Snack served at 10am

.Dinner served at 12 noon

.Afternoon Snack served at 2.30pm

.Evening Tea: served at 4pm.

Our Dedicated Team

At Stepping Stones, we are proud to maintain a very low turnover of staff. Our team members form a close-knit group, much like a family, and this strong sense of camaraderie is reflected in the warm and joyful atmosphere that greets you as soon as you enter our doors.

Our staff comprises a full team of qualified professionals, including the owner, managers, and dedicated childcare educators. Each member of our team is committed to creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and valued every day.

Staff Qualifications and Training

At Stepping Stones, we ensure that our staff are highly qualified and trained to provide the best possible care for your children.

Every staff member holds at least a Level 5 or Level 6 qualification in Early Childhood Care and Education, ensuring a strong foundation in the principles and practices of early years education.

In addition to their educational qualifications, all staff members are trained and certified in Paediatric First Aid. There is always a First Aid Responder (FAR) present onsite, providing parents with the reassurance that immediate care is available if needed.

Maintaining the highest standards of food safety is also a priority. All staff have undergone training in Food Hygiene, and our kitchen staff are fully HACCP certified, guaranteeing that all meals and snacks are prepared in a safe and hygienic manner.

Finally, all staff have completed TUSLA-approved training in Child Protection, ensuring that every child’s welfare and safety is always at the forefront of our care.