Articles by Sophie Collins
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  • Should parents charge rent? Nearly 70% of 25-year-olds still live at home

    Should parents charge rent? Nearly 70% of 25-year-olds still live at home

    A recent study by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) has highlighted a major shift in young adults’ living situations in Ireland The numbers are striking with fewer than one in 20 25-year-olds owning a home, while nearly seven in 10 still live with their parents. With skyrocketing rents, unaffordable house prices, and a serious housing […]

    1 year ago

  • Experts say these TikTok cleaning trends don’t work at all

    Experts say these TikTok cleaning trends don’t work at all

    Are you guilty of applying fabric softener to the walls? Do you often find yourself scrolling through social media in search of the latest cleaning hacks to make your house sparkle without breaking the bank? While TikTok may seem like a treasure trove of innovative ideas, not all trends are as effective as they appear. […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘The results can be amazing’ – Irish aesthetician explains how to treat stretch marks

    ‘The results can be amazing’ – Irish aesthetician explains how to treat stretch marks

    Stretch marks, or striae, are a super common concern for many people, particularly those who have experienced significant weight changes, pregnancy, or rapid growth. While they are a natural part of life, many people look for ways to reduce their appearance. Fortunately, advancements in dermatology means there are several effective treatment options, but timing is […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘My friend stole my baby name because I’m single’

    ‘My friend stole my baby name because I’m single’

    Choosing a baby name can be so difficult So, imagine having your mind set on one favourite name only to have it claimed by a friend – who knew about your plans. A woman has described a ‘world war’ breaking out in her friend group because one of the girls gave birth and stole another […]

    1 year ago

  • What to expect from your six-week post-natal appointment

    What to expect from your six-week post-natal appointment

    If you’re heading toward your sixth week as a new mum, you likely have your post-natal check-up in the calendar. Generally, this appointment is had with your GP or obstetrician and it’s to make sure that you are recovering well after giving birth. Your baby will also need a check-up six weeks after birth, but […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘The housing target set by government in 2025 is unlikely to be met’

    ‘The housing target set by government in 2025 is unlikely to be met’

    Ireland’s housing crisis is hitting headlines again this morning, for all the wrong reasons According to a new report, the housing output that was proposed by the government is now unlikely to be met. Forecasts suggest that the housing output for 2025 could be as low as 32,000 units, which falls very short of the […]

    1 year ago

  • Expecting a Valentine’s baby? Here are the top names associated with the day

    Expecting a Valentine’s baby? Here are the top names associated with the day

    If you’re expecting a Valentine’s baby and are looking for a name with a touch of romance, you might be inspired by the latest data on the most popular Valentine’s-themed names. A new study by PlayFame, using Social Security Administration data, has revealed that Violet and David top the list of love-inspired names. For girls, […]

    1 year ago

  • Three lesser-known social welfare payments many Irish families are eligible for

    Three lesser-known social welfare payments many Irish families are eligible for

    Families across Ireland could be entitled to a number of social welfare benefits that they are not aware of. The cost of living crisis continues to affect thousands nationwide, and some families are struggling to make ends meet. If you’re having a particularly difficult time and have not looked into the benefits in place for […]

    1 year ago

  • Hospitals in ‘desperate’ need of blood donations with just days left in supply

    Hospitals in ‘desperate’ need of blood donations with just days left in supply

    “We desperately need young people to help us ensure we have enough blood to keep the hospitals going” With blood supplies running critically low, people across Ireland are being urged to step up and donate. Hospitals are experiencing unprecedented demand, and the situation is becoming increasingly urgent, according to officials. Last year, hospitals requested more […]

    1 year ago

  • Junior Eurovision applications are open – what you need to know

    Junior Eurovision applications are open – what you need to know

    Is your son, daughter, niece or nephew a musical marvel? Junior Eurovision Éire is back and this year they’re celebrating 10 years on the big stage. Over the last decade, the Junior Eurovision Song Contest has provided a platform for young Irish singers to share their incredible talents with millions of people. This year, the […]

    1 year ago

  • Irish aesthetician explains three non-negotiable ingredients for effective anti-ageing results

    Irish aesthetician explains three non-negotiable ingredients for effective anti-ageing results

    When it comes to anti-ageing, many products claim to reverse time and restore youth However, according to Eavanna Breen, the foundation of any effective anti-ageing routine lies in three key ingredients: sunscreen, retinol, and vitamin C. These scientifically backed components work together to protect and rejuvenate the skin, making them essential for anyone looking to […]

    1 year ago

  • Government called on to ‘take action’ and ban sale of energy drinks to kids

    Government called on to ‘take action’ and ban sale of energy drinks to kids

    Health officials are backing a potential ban in Ireland on the sale of energy drinks for kids The move is being praised as a “very positive” move and Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have since pledged to “explore restrictions on the sale of high caffeine drinks”. Government have described it as a “steadfast commitment to […]

    1 year ago

  • Five easy ways to keep your kids safe online

    Five easy ways to keep your kids safe online

    Whether you’re a household that allows unsupervised internet access, or you’re already on the ball with the latest safety features, you may find some new tricks in this advice. The experts at Proxyrack have shared their five top tips to help bolster online security for your little ones and teens. 1 – Keep track of […]

    1 year ago

  • Baby name expert predicts the most popular baby names for 2025

    Baby name expert predicts the most popular baby names for 2025

    We’re heading into the middle of January and the baby name trends for 2025 are starting to roll in The biggest naming trend predicted for the year is gender-neutral names and traditional boy names for girls. As well as this, surnames as first names are also expected to be on the rise across the globe. […]

    1 year ago

  • Research finds link between modern parenting methods and fussy eating

    Research finds link between modern parenting methods and fussy eating

    In a world where fussy eating among children is on the rise, a crucial connection to contemporary parenting methods is being highlighted. New research, from a study conducted at the University of Michigan, sheds light on the alarming trend with six in ten parents in the US admitting to preparing separate meals for their fussy […]

    1 year ago

  • Neuroscientist mum reveals brilliant sleep trick for parents with a young baby

    Neuroscientist mum reveals brilliant sleep trick for parents with a young baby

    A mum – who is also a neuroscientist – has shared one of her genius sleep tips with parents across the globe. Whether you’re in the early phases of motherhood or are already a mum, welcoming your second or third child, you’ll know all-to-well how disrupted you and your baby’s sleep can become. Dr. Sofia […]

    1 year ago

  • No Nasties Kids: You can now buy safe play makeup for little ones

    No Nasties Kids: You can now buy safe play makeup for little ones

    The perfect gift for any budding makeup enthusiasts If your little one loves experimenting with makeup but you’re concerned about harmful chemicals – and them getting their hands on your expensive products – No Nasties Kids has the perfect solution.  Available online, this children’s makeup brand offers a range of safe, natural, and non-toxic products […]

    1 year ago

  • Molly-Mae reveals her ‘number 1 baby care product’ she uses on Bambi

    Molly-Mae reveals her ‘number 1 baby care product’ she uses on Bambi

    When it comes to styling little girls’ hair, it’s safe to say any tips and tricks are always welcome!! Molly-Mae took to social media this week to advise her followers on a great – and affordable – product for keeping your kid’s hair looking neat, tidy and smelling lovely. She wrote on Instagram: “So many […]

    1 year ago

  • Jake Quickenden and wife Sophie announce birth of second child

    Jake Quickenden and wife Sophie announce birth of second child

    Huge congratulations are in order for Jake Quickenden and his wife, Sophie! Former X Factor contestant, Jake Quickenden, has welcomed his second child after his wife Sophie gave birth on Wednesday. The former I’m A Celebrity contestant posted a lovely video in the aftermath of his new son Kit’s birth, praising Sophie for being ‘incredible’. […]

    1 year ago

  • Five all-natural cleaning hacks with kitchen cupboard ingredients

    Five all-natural cleaning hacks with kitchen cupboard ingredients

    If you’re looking for ways to banish harsh chemicals from your kitchen this year, we have you covered Whether it’s of personal interest or you want to avoid bleach and other common cleaning supplies in kitchens where kids are rambling around, there are so many other effective ways to clean. The best part is, most […]

    1 year ago

  • Green Party calls for State allowance dedicated to helping stay-at-home parents

    Green Party calls for State allowance dedicated to helping stay-at-home parents

    The value of stay-at-home parenting is getting some much-needed attention This comes after a new study from Royal London Ireland revealed that the work done by home-makers is worth an estimated €57,000 a year. Green Party Senator, Pauline O’Reilly weighed in on the findings during a chat on Newstalk Breakfast, and offered her thoughts on […]

    1 year ago

  • Colic affects up to 1 in 5 infants – here’s what you need to know

    Colic affects up to 1 in 5 infants – here’s what you need to know

    Colic is a term used to describe excessive and frequent crying in an otherwise healthy baby According to the HSE, it affects up to 1 in 5 infants and typically begins around 2 weeks of age. Colic usually resolves by 4 months, though in some cases, it may persist until 6 months. What is Colic? […]

    1 year ago

  • Less than half of Irish parents confident they know how to spot the symptoms of RSV

    Less than half of Irish parents confident they know how to spot the symptoms of RSV

    Findings from a recent survey commissioned by Sanofi have shown that 19% of Irish parents haven’t heard of RSV The online survey was conducted with 500 adults who are either currently pregnant or who have children in Ireland to understand their level of awareness and knowledge of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a common […]

    1 year ago

  • Ireland’s teens are leading the way in healthy habits in Europe, according to new report

    Ireland’s teens are leading the way in healthy habits in Europe, according to new report

    When it comes to health and lifestyle choices, Irish teens are setting a strong example compared to their peers across Europe. A new report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Health at a Glance: Europe 2024, highlights some impressive stats about 15-year-olds in Ireland.   Let’s start with the positives. Among 15-year-olds: It’s […]

    1 year ago

  • Five signs that indicate your child may need glasses

    Five signs that indicate your child may need glasses

    There are some key signs to look out for if you think your child needs glasses With a huge increase in the time children spend on screens, various vision problems and the need for glasses is beginning to be seen among younger generations. That’s according to a recent study that claims kids today spend 56% […]

    1 year ago

  • Parents warned to avoid gifting ‘water beads’ over Christmas due to fears of injury

    Parents warned to avoid gifting ‘water beads’ over Christmas due to fears of injury

    Water beads are also known as jelly beads, hydro orbs, crystal soil, sensory beads or orb beads Health officials in Canada have issued a stark warning over the use of water beads by children and have cited ‘potentially life-threatening injuries’ as one of the reasons why. The children’s product is sold here in Ireland and […]

    1 year ago

  • Here’s how to track Santa’s sleigh this Christmas Eve

    Here’s how to track Santa’s sleigh this Christmas Eve

    Christmas Eve Eve is here, and the excitement is building. If you’re looking for a fun way to keep the holiday magic alive, check out the Norad Santa Tracker.  It lets you and your kids follow Santa’s journey around the world in real-time – right up until bedtime!   The Norad Santa Tracker is a holiday […]

    1 year ago

  • Psychologist explains how to ease your child’s fear of Santa

    Psychologist explains how to ease your child’s fear of Santa

    There are plenty of children who are afraid of Santa! When I was little, I vaguely recall making my parents light the fire before bedtime so Santa couldn’t possibly come into our home and visiting the big man was a firm ‘no,’ which was respected. But as psychologist Robyn Fallshaw explained to Kids First, it’s […]

    1 year ago

  • HSE shares seven seasonal stress-reducing tips ahead of the holidays

    HSE shares seven seasonal stress-reducing tips ahead of the holidays

    The festive season is a time of joy for many people but it can also be a time when you feel stressed, anxious or down. Whether it’s down to increased financial pressure, juggling work and personal commitments, a first Christmas without a loved one, pressure to socialise, or increased loneliness. Stress can show itself in many […]

    1 year ago

  • CCPC issues serious warning about button batteries ahead of Christmas

    CCPC issues serious warning about button batteries ahead of Christmas

    Christmas Day is right around the corner now and your kids will be getting so excited for any presents they may receive from Santa and family. As with all birthdays and holidays, when presents start floating in, it’s important to know of any potential dangers that could arise and what to look out for. This […]

    1 year ago

  • Here are the changes to supermarket opening hours over Christmas

    Here are the changes to supermarket opening hours over Christmas

    Christmas Day is just days away now, which means supermarket opening hours will change up a little bit – catching some of us out. Every year, supermarket doors close on Christmas Day and work shorter hours around then to allow their staff to take very well-deserved breaks from the chaos of the Christmas season. So, […]

    1 year ago

  • State of the Nation Children’s Report claims decrease in happiness levels in Ireland

    State of the Nation Children’s Report claims decrease in happiness levels in Ireland

    The latest State of the Nation Children’s Report has been published. The report claims that the happiness levels among children living in Ireland have decreased. Published by the Children’s Minister, Roderic O’Gorman this week, it reveals key information on children’s health, behavioural and educational outcomes. In 2018, 88.2% of children reported being happy with their […]

    1 year ago

  • Fathers with daughters live longer according to scientific study

    Fathers with daughters live longer according to scientific study

    There’s now scientific proof that men who father daughters, live longer! A recent study has uncovered an unexpected perk of fatherhood: dads with daughters tend to live longer lives compared to those without. This fascinating finding sheds a light on an area of research that’s rarely explored – the impact of childbirth on fathers’ health. […]

    1 year ago

  • Maternity leave in Ireland – here’s what you need to know

    Maternity leave in Ireland – here’s what you need to know

    If you’re expecting or are planning on trying for a baby, you’ll likely be looking into maternity leave and how it works in Ireland. There are lots of misunderstandings when it comes to maternity leave for new mothers in Ireland; from how long you need to be in a job and what pay you’re entitled […]

    1 year ago