The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM): A Parent’s Guide

Parenting a child with additional needs brings its own unique set of questions and challenges. When it comes to their early years in preschool, you want to ensure they have every opportunity to thrive. In Ireland, the Access and Inclusion Model, or AIM, is the government-funded programme designed to make sure that happens.

AIM helps create an inclusive environment and provides targeted supports for children with additional needs to access and fully participate in the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme. It’s a child-centred model, meaning your child's needs are front and centre. This guide will walk you through how it works, what supports are available, and how you can work with your creche or preschool to get the best for your child.

Quick summary

• What is AIM? A government scheme to support children with additional needs in ECCE-funded preschool.
• Who is it for? Children aged 2 years 8 months up to starting primary school who need extra support to participate in the ECCE programme.
• What does it do? Provides a range of supports, from training for staff to extra staff in the classroom (LINC Coordinator), tailored to the needs of the child and the preschool.
• How does it work? The model has seven levels of support, moving from universal (for all children) to targeted (for a specific child).
• Who applies? Your creche or preschool applies for AIM, not parents. The process is done in collaboration with you.
• Is it means-tested? No, AIM is not means-tested and is free for parents.

Understanding the 7 Levels of AIM Support

The AIM model is structured around seven levels of support. Some levels are universal, meaning they benefit everyone in the preschool, while others are targeted specifically at your child's needs. A preschool can use supports from different levels at the same time.

Universal Supports (Levels 1–3)

These first three levels are about creating a broadly inclusive culture within the preschool setting. Every ECCE service can access these without a formal application.

• Level 1: An Inclusive Culture: This is the foundation. It’s about creating a culture of belonging for every child. A national training programme, the Leadership for Inclusion in Early Years (LINC) programme, is central to this. A staff member can be trained as an Inclusion Coordinator (LINC Coordinator) for the preschool. They are paid an extra €2 per hour for this role and act as a resource for other staff and a point of contact for parents.

• Level 2: Information and Resources: All preschools have access to a wealth of information and resources through the AIM website. This includes guidance on inclusive practices, self-assessment tools, and information for parents. Your preschool can use these tools to review their environment and ensure it’s welcoming for all children.

• Level 3: A Qualified and Confident Workforce: This level provides specialised training for preschool staff. It covers a range of topics related to disability and inclusion. This ensures that the educators working with your child are confident and skilled in supporting their needs. This training is offered nationally and is free for staff.

Targeted Supports (Levels 4–7)

If your child needs more support than the universal levels provide, the preschool, in partnership with you, can apply for targeted supports.

• Level 4: Expert Advice and Support: If your preschool needs expert advice, they can request a visit from an Early Years Specialist from the AIM team. This specialist can observe the child in the preschool setting, consult with you and the staff, and provide a written plan with recommendations and mentoring.

• Level 5: Equipment and Minor Alterations: Sometimes, a small change can make a big difference. This level provides funding for specialised equipment (like a supportive chair or sensory toys) or minor building alterations (such as installing a ramp or a hearing loop system) to make the environment more accessible.

• Level 6: Therapeutic Support: This level provides access to a range of HSE-funded therapies, such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or physiotherapy, if these are identified as being critical for your child to be able to participate in the ECCE programme.

• Level 7: Additional Staffing: This is often the level parents are most familiar with. If a preschool identifies that your child needs significant extra support, they can apply for additional capitation to fund more staff. This might mean having an extra person in the room to reduce the adult-to-child ratio. This support is based on the needs of the child in the context of the preschool room, not a diagnosis. The funding goes to the service, not the parent, to be used flexibly to support the child's participation.

How Does My Creche Apply for AIM?

The application process is a collaborative one between you and your chosen preschool. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Discussion: The process starts with a conversation. You and the preschool manager or LINC Coordinator will discuss your child’s needs and strengths.
2. Access and Inclusion Profile: Together, you will complete an Access and Inclusion Profile. This is a key part of the application. It’s not a test, but a way to capture a holistic picture of your child – what they enjoy, what they find challenging, and what supports help them.
3. Application: The preschool submits the application, including the profile and any supporting documents, through the HIVE portal. You will need to provide your consent for this.
4. Decision: The application is reviewed by the AIM team, and a decision is made on the most appropriate level of support. The preschool is notified of the outcome.

It’s important to remember that AIM is not diagnosis-led. You do not need a formal diagnosis of a disability to get support. The focus is entirely on your child’s needs and the support required for them to participate in the ECCE programme.

What Can Parents Ask?

When you are looking for a preschool or talking to your current one, you have an important role to play. Don't be afraid to ask questions to understand their approach to inclusion.

• "Do you have a LINC Coordinator on your staff?"
• "Can you tell me about your experience supporting children with additional needs?"
• "How do you create an inclusive environment for all children here?"
• "What is your process for applying for AIM support if a child needs it?"
• "How will we communicate about my child's progress and needs?"

Finding the right preschool is crucial. You can start your search for local creches and preschools on Crechely's creche search page.

Key Takeaways for Parents

• AIM is your partner: It’s a positive, supportive programme designed to give your child the best start.
• Collaboration is key: Work closely with your preschool. Your insights as a parent are invaluable.
• Focus on needs, not labels: AIM is designed to provide support based on your child's individual needs, not a specific diagnosis.
• Advocate for your child: Ask questions and be involved in the process. You are your child’s best advocate.

For more detailed information, you can always refer to the official AIM website or speak to your local City/County Childcare Committee (CCC).

This article provides general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult official sources like Citizens Information and the AIM website for the most up-to-date guidance.

Frequently asked questions