Articles by Sophie Collins
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  • ‘The Government should introduce supports for parents raising their children in the home’

    ‘The Government should introduce supports for parents raising their children in the home’

    “What they’re doing is ignoring parents” A call for increased government support for stay-at-home parents has been made, with the argument that it would provide more options for families and better outcomes for children. Wendy Grace, a broadcaster and columnist, has suggested that parents should have the power to decide how childcare funding is allocated […]

    2 years ago

  • World Sepsis Day: HSE highlights the signs and symptoms amid rising cases

    World Sepsis Day: HSE highlights the signs and symptoms amid rising cases

    Today, Friday September 13th, marks World Sepsis Day A global effort is underway to raise awareness about the dangers of sepsis – a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s extreme response to infection. The HSE is urging the public to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of sepsis, which can often be mistaken for […]

    2 years ago

  • Experts predict this unisex baby name will be popular this autumn

    Experts predict this unisex baby name will be popular this autumn

    “We wonder what other popular names will soon be redefined and transcend sexes” A new study has revealed that Jack is rising in popularity as a unisex baby name for the autumn. Experts at Hennessey Digital analysed data to find which autumn-related baby names were the most used in 2023. Jason Hennessey, CEO of Hennessey […]

    2 years ago

  • HBO announce open casting call for Harry, Ron and Hermione actors in Ireland & UK

    HBO announce open casting call for Harry, Ron and Hermione actors in Ireland & UK

    Could your kid be the next Harry Potter? The search for the next generation of Hogwarts heroes is officially underway. HBO has announced an open casting call for young actors to play the iconic roles of Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger in its highly anticipated original series adaptation of the beloved Harry Potter […]

    2 years ago

  • YouTube moves to limit access to health and fitness videos for teenagers

    YouTube moves to limit access to health and fitness videos for teenagers

    A very welcomed move YouTube’s recent decision to restrict the recommendation of health and fitness videos to teenagers has been praised as a “step in the right direction” by a leading online safety charity. While teenagers aged 13 to 17 will still be able to access these videos, YouTube’s algorithm will no longer actively promote […]

    2 years ago

  • Parents could be in for one-off €560 Child Benefit payment in Budget 2025

    Parents could be in for one-off €560 Child Benefit payment in Budget 2025

    New parents could be in for a baby boost payment In the lead-up to Budget 2025, set to be announced in three weeks, discussions are underway among government ministers about potential new measures to support Irish families amid the ongoing cost of living crisis. One of the proposals gaining traction is a one-off “baby boost” […]

    2 years ago

  • Parents warned as some Santa attractions already selling out

    Parents warned as some Santa attractions already selling out

    Parents are being warned to act quickly ahead of the Christmas season as Santa attractions are already beginning to fill up. Bringing the little ones to visit Santa during the festive season always creates such wonderful memories for young families. However, each year the situation is the same, where if you’re not quick at booking […]

    2 years ago

  • Cardiologist warns parents of ‘red flags’ in children’s cardiac health

    Cardiologist warns parents of ‘red flags’ in children’s cardiac health

    We all worry about our children’s health when they show signs of anything amiss It’s normal to want to make sure everything is ok and sometimes it’s absolutely the right call to get a doctor’s opinion. Speaking to Dr Afif El Khuffash on The Baby Tribe podcast, paediatric cardiologist, Professor Orla Franklin gave advice to […]

    2 years ago

  • Expert explains why limiting choices is so important for kids

    Expert explains why limiting choices is so important for kids

    Giving our kids choices in life is extremely important; it helps them learn to be decisive and problem solve early on. However, experts are warning against giving little ones too many choices in any situation because of the negative effects it can have on their psyche later in life. Choices can be hard – even […]

    2 years ago

  • No one is using these classic names anymore according to research

    No one is using these classic names anymore according to research

    Some names are beginning to fall by the wayside In the ever-evolving landscape of baby names, it’s interesting to look at not just what’s trending, but also what isn’t. Surprisingly, the least popular names for 2024 are some timeless classics that have long been considered staples in naming traditions. Often referred to as “evergreen names,” […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘Physical activity is so important for your children’s self-confidence’

    ‘Physical activity is so important for your children’s self-confidence’

    Physical activity is incredibly important for your child’s development and self-confidence That’s according to the HSE, who advise that kids under five should be having at least three hours of physical activity each day. According to the experts, being active can help your little one to: By the age of five, your child’s daily physical […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘My daughter wants her first bra, but I think she is way too young’

    ‘My daughter wants her first bra, but I think she is way too young’

    A mother of a 9-year-old daughter recently sought advice online on whether to buy her daughter a training bra The mother, who is very open with her daughter about growing up, expressed concern that buying the bra might encourage her daughter to grow up too quickly. She said that her daughter is very thin and […]

    2 years ago

  • The importance of school attendance and the consequences for unexplained absences

    The importance of school attendance and the consequences for unexplained absences

    Every child’s school years are incredibly important for their development From language ability, to social and behavioural skills, it is imperative that they keep up a regular attendance. According to the law, schools must keep a register of the students attending the school. It is also their responsibility to maintain attendance records for all students […]

    2 years ago

  • Understanding pica cravings – causes, implications, and management

    Understanding pica cravings – causes, implications, and management

    A person with pica cravings may consume soil, clay, paint, paper, coal, wood, string, pebbles, hair, ice or freezer frost The term ‘pica cravings’ refers to the compulsive desire to eat things that are not considered food. This condition can be puzzling and concerning for those who experience it or for those who see it […]

    2 years ago

  • Mums share their top tips on what to wear during labour

    Mums share their top tips on what to wear during labour

    Labour is different for every mum-to-be That being said, when asked what they liked to wear during labour, a lot of first-time and experienced mums had similar opinions on what was best. On a forum on Mumsnet, one mum asked what others think she should wear during labour, writing: “Hi, at 35 weeks. “Just wondering […]

    2 years ago

  • Parents are more fearful of online safety than bullying, according to new study

    Parents are more fearful of online safety than bullying, according to new study

    Parents are more worried about keeping their children safe online than they are about bullying in school, according to a new survey A recent poll, carried out by Tesco Mobile, undertaken by 800 mums and dads of kids between eight and 16 showed that 65% rank online safety as their main worry, even ahead of […]

    2 years ago

  • New research puts figure on how much you should make as stay-at-home parent

    New research puts figure on how much you should make as stay-at-home parent

    Being a parent is one of the most challenging roles a person can undertake For many, it is likened to managing a second full-time job. A recent study conducted by Harris Poll in collaboration with Skylight has given an insight into what a person should earn as a stay-at-home parent. Surveying 2,000 parents with children under […]

    2 years ago

  • How to help your teen sleep better during stressful times, according to experts

    How to help your teen sleep better during stressful times, according to experts

    When counting sheep simply won’t do Teen years are filled with lots of stressors, from exams to friendship issues and this can make it difficult for your child to get a good night’s sleep.  Understanding how to manage this type of stress and ensuring your child gets the rest they need is so important. Mattress […]

    2 years ago

  • Mum explains why you should never let your baby hold your car keys

    Mum explains why you should never let your baby hold your car keys

    Parenting is the art of often juggling numerous responsibilities at one time Sometimes – and by no one’s fault – a seemingly minor oversight can quickly escalate into a scary situation for any mum or dad. A recent Reddit post from a concerned mum told the story of a critical safety warning that every caregiver […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘Autistic children without school places have been badly let down by the State’

    ‘Autistic children without school places have been badly let down by the State’

    “These children and their families have been badly let down” Minister for Children, Roderic O’Gorman, has acknowledged that autistic children left without a school place for the new term have been “badly let down” by the state. Parents have shared their frustrations, with some being turned away by as many as 30 schools in their […]

    2 years ago

  • Here’s why you shouldn’t use your smartphone around your kids

    Here’s why you shouldn’t use your smartphone around your kids

    There are growing concerns about the impact of smartphone usage on parents, infants, and children The Paediatric Clinical Psychology Team at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) has spoken of growing concerns around the impact of device usage on parents, infants, and children. According to Anne-Marie Casey, Senior Clinical Psychologist at CHI, smartphones have become an integral […]

    2 years ago

  • Urgent warning issued over viral online trend after multiple children hospitalised

    Urgent warning issued over viral online trend after multiple children hospitalised

    Multiple children have been hospitalised due to a viral food trend online Parents are being warned over the Tanghulu trend circulating on social media as more and more children are making the same dangerous mistake. Doctors at a children’s hospital have spoken out after a spike in the number of kids being admitted due to […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘Overprotective parenting is slowing down children’s development’

    ‘Overprotective parenting is slowing down children’s development’

    According to a leading parenting journalist, parents who are overprotective of their children are delaying their development into adults. Georgina Fuller is asking why parents are becoming so afraid of allowing their children to have freedom when it’s been proven to be of benefit to them. Naturally, there will always be shifts in parenting styles […]

    2 years ago

  • Rent costs ‘climbing’ in Ireland as supply declines, according to report

    Rent costs ‘climbing’ in Ireland as supply declines, according to report

    Rent costs continue to climb relentlessly across Ireland and the latest figures are showing a 7% increase over the past year alone According to the newest Daft.ie report, this marks the 14th consecutive quarter of rising rents, bringing the national average to €1,922 per month. The surge in rent prices has been particularly severe in […]

    2 years ago

  • Common baby names that mean something hilariously different in other languages

    Common baby names that mean something hilariously different in other languages

    When it comes to picking a name for your new baby, so many factors come into play. Trying to choose something unique can be difficult and we often avoid names of people we know, dislike, or that can be easily twisted into another funny or embarrassing word. But have you ever thought about what your […]

    2 years ago

  • How to help your teenager cope with disappointing Leaving Cert results

    How to help your teenager cope with disappointing Leaving Cert results

    Friday, August 23rd is a huge day for thousands of students and families across Ireland as the Leaving Certificate results come out. It can be a nerve wracking experience for everyone involved, and while we hope everyone gets the results they need for their first CAO choice, sometimes that simply doesn’t happen. The first thing […]

    2 years ago

  • What parents need to know before the new school term starts

    What parents need to know before the new school term starts

    The summer season is drawing to a close and the HSE child health experts have you covered They’re offering up advice on changing your kids’ routines after the holidays and planning ahead for those inevitable illnesses and viruses. Dr Abigail Collins, HSE National Clinical Lead, Child Health Public Health, who spoke on the ‘Back to […]

    2 years ago

  • Seven tips to calm your child’s back-to-school nerves – starting now

    Seven tips to calm your child’s back-to-school nerves – starting now

    The new school year is fast approaching It’s been a long summer and switching back into a strict school routine can be difficult for little ones. Getting the bedtime, homework, early morning and routine down for another term takes time. However, there are things you can start doing now that will ease the transition back […]

    2 years ago

  • Drinkaware issues advice for parents as Leaving Cert results night approaches

    Drinkaware issues advice for parents as Leaving Cert results night approaches

    As the Leaving Cert results day approaches on Friday, August 23rd, 2024, many students will be feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Whether your child is eager to celebrate their achievements or is worried about the outcome, this can be a challenging transition period. During this time, parents play a crucial role in guiding […]

    2 years ago

  • How to protect your little ones from the dreaded ‘back-to-school plague’

    How to protect your little ones from the dreaded ‘back-to-school plague’

    The new school year is fast approaching and with that, comes the arrival of the ‘back-to-school plague’. Colds, coughs, stomach bugs and pink eye (conjunctivitis) are just some of the many common viruses spread at school. If you are looking for ways to avoid your child being sick every two weeks or so from now […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘Parents should not feel guilt over allowing children to have screen time’

    ‘Parents should not feel guilt over allowing children to have screen time’

    The topic of screen time has been at the forefront of discussions on parenting websites and forums worldwide While some experts caution that excessive screen time can hinder children’s development, others argue it may not be as harmful as feared. This divide has led to increasing feelings of guilt among parents who allow their children […]

    2 years ago

  • Dunnes Stores recalls three baby sleepsuits due to safety issues

    Dunnes Stores recalls three baby sleepsuits due to safety issues

    Dunnes Stores has recalled three of its newborn baby sleepsuits due to safety concerns. The store confirmed to the Irish Independent that issues with the zip sleepsuits were found, however they were not specific about what the issues are. The suits, decorated with bunnies, lions and an ‘animal’ design are made for babies from 0 […]

    2 years ago

  • Does peach fuzz grow back faster or darker after shaving? Dermatologist explains

    Does peach fuzz grow back faster or darker after shaving? Dermatologist explains

    “I promise you that it doesn’t” There are so many myths surrounding what happens as women if we shave (or dermaplane) our faces. For years people have been taught, or assumed themselves, that if you dermaplane your face, the hair, or peach fuzz will grow back thicker and darker than before. In a recent video […]

    2 years ago

  • Principal raises concern over teacher shortage as new term approaches

    Principal raises concern over teacher shortage as new term approaches

    Teachers “leave, they go to Dubai or places like that” The summer holidays are swiftly coming to an end and schools across Ireland are struggling to fill positions for teachers. According to princpials, it is becoming increasingly difficult to hire teachers who specialise in subjects such as maths, Irish and Home Economics. The situation has […]

    2 years ago

  • Does excessive screen time impact key development skills? Experts explain

    Does excessive screen time impact key development skills? Experts explain

    Screen time is part of most kids’ days Like everything else in life, it’s fine in moderation, but too much screen time can cause issues in the future. The experts at OutdoorToys have to compiled a guide on the risks of excessive screen time as well as the recommended amount of time your children should […]

    2 years ago

  • Calls for HRT funding to include younger women facing early menopause

    Calls for HRT funding to include younger women facing early menopause

    Experts are urging the government to include younger women in plans to fund hormone replacement therapy (HRT) They’re highlighting the financial burden and silent struggles many face when managing early menopause. On Monday, it was revealed that the Department of Health is looking into a proposal to fund HRT for women experiencing menopause, with detailed […]

    2 years ago

  • Should single-gender schools be phased out in favour of a co-ed model in Ireland?

    Should single-gender schools be phased out in favour of a co-ed model in Ireland?

    The debate around single-gender schools has kicked off again, with some arguing that they can contribute to negative behaviours later in life. Opposing that argument is Barbara Ennis, Principal of Alexandra College, who said she firmly believes these schools should be protected.  “Most single-sex schools are performing excellently well,” she insists, urging that they “be […]

    2 years ago

  • Lactation consultant lists top tips for establishing an early breastfeeding routine

    Lactation consultant lists top tips for establishing an early breastfeeding routine

    Establishing a breastfeeding routine in the days after birth is so important for both the baby’s and mother’s comfort on this journey Breastfeeding is tough and sometimes not possible for a number of reasons, but if you’re lucky enough to be able to provide your baby with breast milk, here are some tips for you. […]

    2 years ago

  • Thousands of people don’t realise they qualify for the Working Family Payment

    Thousands of people don’t realise they qualify for the Working Family Payment

    There are lots of families in Ireland who may not realise they’re entitled to this payment The Working Family Payment (WFP) is a weekly tax-free payment for people in the workforce who have children. It supports those who are on lower pay and may be better known by its old title, the Family Income Supplement […]

    2 years ago

  • Everything we know about the potential increase in rent tax credit for Budget 2025

    Everything we know about the potential increase in rent tax credit for Budget 2025

    In a bid to attract younger voters, the government is considering a significant increase in the Rent Tax Credit in Budget 2025 Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien is pushing for the credit, currently set at €750, to rise to €1,000 for individuals and €2,000 for couples. The Rent Tax Credit, which benefits around 400,000 renters annually, […]

    2 years ago

  • Expert advice on breastfeeding and mastering the perfect latch and positioning

    Expert advice on breastfeeding and mastering the perfect latch and positioning

    It’s Breastfeeding Awareness Month, and we know how important it is to have access to information that can help you along the way. It’s essential for new and expectant parents to equip themselves with the right knowledge for a successful breastfeeding experience. We spoke with Niamh Cassidy, the founder of MyBabyBeginnings.ie, who offered invaluable advice […]

    2 years ago

  • Four ways to keep wasps at bay and what to do if your little one gets stung

    Four ways to keep wasps at bay and what to do if your little one gets stung

    The summer season is veering to an end, but despite that, warmer temperatures usually continue into September. This means the wasp population will continue to thrive for another few weeks. While they are usually harmless – but annoying – each year we try new ways to keep them away from ourselves and the kids, and […]

    2 years ago