Parent Information
Calendars, funding schemes, forms and policies, all in one place.
National Childcare Scheme (NCS)
The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) helps families with the cost of early learning and childcare. Children aged 24 weeks to under 15 years may be eligible, provided they attend a Tusla-registered childcare service participating in the NCS.
There are two types of NCS subsidy. The Universal Subsidy is available to families regardless of income and currently provides €2.14 per hour, for up to 45 hours per week. Families who meet the income criteria may be eligible for the Income-Assessed Subsidy, which can provide a higher level of support depending on family income and circumstances. You can receive either the Universal or Income-Assessed subsidy, whichever provides the greater benefit.
How do I apply?
Parents or guardians apply directly for the NCS through the NCS website. Online applications require a verified MyGovID, along with your child’s date of birth and PPS number. Once approved, you will receive a unique CHICK number, which is used by Buttercup Childcare to register your child for the subsidy. The NCS payment is made directly to Buttercup Childcare and deducted from your childcare fees.
The amount you receive will depend on the type of subsidy you qualify for and the hours of childcare your child attends. Parents can also use the NCS website to check their eligibility and estimate their potential subsidy.
For the latest information, eligibility criteria and to apply, please visit the National Childcare Scheme website.
ECCE Preschool Programme
What is ECCE?
The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme is a free, two-year preschool programme that gives children a strong foundation for their early learning and development before starting primary school.
ECCE provides 3 hours of preschool each day, 5 days a week, during the preschool year. Children learn through play, exploration and meaningful experiences while developing important skills such as confidence, communication, independence, friendships, early literacy and numeracy.
Who is eligible?
Children can usually start ECCE if they are at least 2 years and 8 months old before 1 September of the year they begin preschool. Children can continue to receive ECCE until they transfer to primary school, subject to the programme’s eligibility requirements.
How do I apply?
Parents do not apply directly to the government for ECCE. Instead, you choose an ECCE-registered preschool service and enrol your child with the service. At Buttercup Childcare, we will guide you through our enrolment process and the information required to register your child for ECCE.
Places can be limited, so we recommend contacting Buttercup Childcare and joining our waiting list as early as possible.
Starting their learning journey
At Buttercup Childcare, we see the ECCE years as an important stage in your child’s development. Our nurturing, play-based approach encourages children to become confident, curious and independent learners, helping them develop the skills and self-belief they need for a happy and positive transition to primary school.
You can read more in our Parent Statement for Partner Services 2026/27, which welcomes you to the service and explains the ECCE programme, the hours, who is eligible and how your fees are calculated.
Access and Inclusion Model (AIM)
Supporting every child to participate, learn and belong.
At Buttercup Childcare, we believe every child should have the opportunity to fully participate in preschool, feel included and enjoy their early learning experience.
What is AIM?
The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a national programme designed to support children who may need additional assistance to access and participate fully in the ECCE preschool programme.
AIM provides a range of supports based on each child’s individual needs and the needs of their preschool environment.
Who is eligible for AIM support?
AIM targeted supports are available to children attending the ECCE programme who may require additional support to participate fully in preschool.
Importantly, a formal diagnosis of a disability is not required. AIM focuses on the individual needs of the child within their preschool setting.
Support may include specialist advice and guidance, specialised equipment, minor adaptations, therapeutic support or additional assistance within the preschool environment.
How do I apply for AIM?
Applications for targeted AIM support are made jointly by the preschool and the child’s parent or guardian.
At Buttercup Childcare, we work closely with families to identify the supports that may benefit their child and help guide parents through the application process.
Applications are completed online through the Early Years Hive, with parental or guardian consent required. Once submitted, the application is reviewed and the outcome is communicated to both the preschool and the family.
Families are encouraged to begin the process as early as possible if they feel their child may benefit from additional support.
For more about the scheme, visit the Access and Inclusion Model website.
Forms
FAQs and policies
Our policies are password protected. If you need the password, please contact the service.