our ethos

At Stepping Stones Early Learning Centre we acknowledge and indeed firmly believe that no child learns the same way. They all need to be provided with the opportunity to learn through a means that works for them, and that they enjoy. We aim to provide a quality play based learning environment. We are committed to valuing and respecting the children in our care by providing a safe, enjoyable, home from home environment.

Supporting you

At Stepping Stones we understand that sessional preschool care does not suit all working families.

With this in mind we offer a drop off service to local childminders in the Ballinahown, Castledaly and surrounding area.

Places on the bus fill up fast so contact us today to book your place.

mornings or afternoons

We offer both morning and afternoon sessions.

our daily routine

Stepping Stones Early Learning Centre opened its doors as a preschool service to the children of Ballinahown, Castledaly, Moate, and surrounding areas in September 2012. It is owned and managed by Lorrain Farrell.

Lorraine has a wealth of experience in early education both nationally and internationally and has worked with children of all ages and abilities.  She holds a BA in Early Childhood Care & Education from DIT and has continued her professional development over the past ten years with a variety of courses such as First Aid, Child Protection, Curriculum Development, Working with Autistic Children to name a few. She is currently studying in Sligo Institute of Technology towards a Masters Degree in Advocacy and Leadership in the Early Years.

our setting

We operate from a custom built setting with two large interior rooms, bathrooms and a large outdoor play area with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Stepping Stones aims to provide a quality play based curriculum incorporating aspects of the Montessori Curriculum, High Scope and Aistear: The Curriculum Framework. You can read more on this in our curriculum section.

Find out more about our teachers here.

meet the team

Come and see us 

If you would like to come and have a look at Stepping Stones, meet the team & see if we are a good fit for your child & family then get in touch. 

Contact us