Articles by Sophie Collins
Search
  • Ten beautiful baby names inspired by the month of July

    Ten beautiful baby names inspired by the month of July

    The month of July is here, and lots of soon-to-be mums will be preparing to welcome their new addition to the family With its warm, sunny days and vibrant celebrations, it serves as a wonderful source of inspiration for names. Here are ten names inspired by the month of July: Julia- A classic name that […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘I’m a doctor and this is a lesser-known tummy bug hack you need to know’

    ‘I’m a doctor and this is a lesser-known tummy bug hack you need to know’

    A 2016 study has said this is just as effective for kids with tummy bugs Dr. Niamh, a popular TikTok health expert, recently shared a practical tip for parents struggling to rehydrate their children while they have a tummy big. There are lots of kids who dislike the taste of traditional oral rehydration solutions (ORS), […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘Rewarding perfect school attendance is unfair to kids who are sick’

    ‘Rewarding perfect school attendance is unfair to kids who are sick’

    The post online has stirred up some debate Should we be calling an end to awarding school children for perfect attendance? According to Newstalk Breakfast Briefing presenter, Shane Beatty, it is unfair to those who miss school for valid reasons. The presenter’s recent online post stirred significant discussion, where he says that rewarding perfect attendance […]

    2 years ago

  • Three reasons your ribs hurt during pregnancy and ways to prevent it

    Three reasons your ribs hurt during pregnancy and ways to prevent it

    Pregnancy comes with a whole host of discomforts ranging in types and degrees of pain. One of the most common of which is rib pain. This is especially common during the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40). It occurs during pregnancy due to the changes happening to your body that can make this type of […]

    2 years ago

  • Expansion of the newborn heel prick test in Ireland is urgently needed

    Expansion of the newborn heel prick test in Ireland is urgently needed

    Rare Diseases Ireland (RDI) has urged the Irish government to double the number of diseases screened for in the newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) program Currently, nine diseases are screened for in a newborn in Ireland despite the European average being 18.  The call for an expansion on this was made during a meeting with members […]

    2 years ago

  • Six ancient baby names that are making a comeback

    Six ancient baby names that are making a comeback

    The baby name cycle is constantly turning  This means names that are quickly going out of style in 2024, will likely be gems once again in years to come. Many parents look to the past for inspiration for a more unique name for their child. As a result of this, ancient names, rich in history […]

    2 years ago

  • These baby names are climbing in popularity thanks to Taylor Swift’s albums

    These baby names are climbing in popularity thanks to Taylor Swift’s albums

    Would you pick baby names based in inspiration from your favourite singer? Taylor Swift’s talents have created a huge community of men and women who bond over their love of her music. If you’re a Swiftie expecting a little girl, here are six charming baby names that seem to be climbing the charts, inspired by […]

    2 years ago

  • Emily Atack welcomes first child and reveals adorable name

    Emily Atack welcomes first child and reveals adorable name

    Emily Atack has announced the birth of her first child.  The 34-year-old star known for her stint on I’m A Celebrity and The Inbetweeners, shared that she and her partner, scientist Dr. Alistair Garner, have welcomed a baby boy. She also shared her bundle of joy’s name; Barney James Garner. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Emily […]

    2 years ago

  • Meet The Parents: Ranae’s fight for equality for LGBTQ+ families in Ireland

    Meet The Parents: Ranae’s fight for equality for LGBTQ+ families in Ireland

    Meet Ranae Von Medding, a 36-year-old marketing professional who lives in Dublin with her wife, Audrey, and their three children, Ava, Aria, and 14-week-old baby Ali Ranae is also the CEO of Equality for Children, a non-profit organisation dedicated to fighting for the rights of children in LGBTQ+ families in Ireland. Ranae is intimately familiar […]

    2 years ago

  • Elegant baby girl names inspired by Bridgerton

    Elegant baby girl names inspired by Bridgerton

    The hit series ‘Bridgerton,’ has sparked a renewed interest in elegant and timeless names.  With its lavish regency-era setting and captivating characters, there’s no wonder parents want to opt for featured names. If you’re looking for a sophisticated and classic name for your baby girl, consider these inspired by the beloved characters and the charm […]

    2 years ago

  • These beautiful flower-themed baby names are perfect for summer babies

    These beautiful flower-themed baby names are perfect for summer babies

    The summer season is here and some lucky parents will be preparing to welcome their new bundle(s) of joy If you’re in search of something to mark the season of their birth, then look no further than these gorgeous summer inspired names. Natasha Ascott, who also Muddy Puddles is inspiring parents with her list of […]

    2 years ago

  • Celebrate Father’s Day at Dublin Zoo: ‘Dads Go Free’ this Sunday

    Celebrate Father’s Day at Dublin Zoo: ‘Dads Go Free’ this Sunday

    Celebrate Father’s Day at Dublin Zoo: ‘Dads Go Free’ Offer this Sunday, June 16th Dublin Zoo is inviting families to celebrate Father’s Day with a special ‘Dads Go Free’ offer on Sunday.  This is a perfect opportunity to honour the dads and father figures in our lives by spending quality time together, creating cherished memories […]

    2 years ago

  • Parents warned over urgent recall of popular Cocomelon toy after hundreds sold in Ireland

    Parents warned over urgent recall of popular Cocomelon toy after hundreds sold in Ireland

    Just Play, LLC has issued an urgent recall of the Cocomelon JJ Learning Doll due to a significant choking hazard The recall affects all batches of this popular children’s toy, with the model number CCM11 and barcode 8056379128359. Approximately 850 units of the affected product were sold in the Republic of Ireland. The Cocomelon JJ […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘I named my baby after a Disney character – I don’t care if people hate it’

    ‘I named my baby after a Disney character – I don’t care if people hate it’

    A mum is receiving some backlash online over her baby’s name It’s no secret that classic baby names are dwindling in popularity in favour of more unique name options for modern parents. Traditional names like Liam, Sean, Matthew, Mary, Catherine and Eleanor are falling further down the ranks each year. Parents are now opting for […]

    2 years ago

  • Should continuous assessment replace the Leaving Certificate?

    Should continuous assessment replace the Leaving Certificate?

    The yearly debate about the future of the Leaving Cert has kicked off Opinions are strong on both sides of the argument with some criticising the level of pressure being placed on young people doing the Leaving Certificate, while others think it’s necessary. Newstalk Breakfast presenter Ciara Kelly is among those who argue against getting […]

    2 years ago

  • People with these Irish surnames could inherit a fortune

    People with these Irish surnames could inherit a fortune

    There are hundreds of unclaimed estates in the UK under Irish names A database of unclaimed estates, Unclaimedestates.ie, tracks Irish people who have passed away without leaving a will.  It contains over 300 names among which could be a deceased Irish relative whose estate remains unclaimed. Who Owns These Estates? The people listed are Irish-born men […]

    2 years ago

  • Irish Cancer Society announce 2024 Colour Dash to raise vital funds

    Irish Cancer Society announce 2024 Colour Dash to raise vital funds

    The Irish Cancer Society has announced the return of the highly anticipated Colour Dash It’s set to be the most vibrant event on this year’s calendar and is scheduled for Sunday, June 30th at 9:30 am. The 5K fun run will take place in the scenic Phoenix Park, Dublin. Colour Dash is not just a […]

    2 years ago

  • These gorgeous baby names are perfect for a June baby girl

    These gorgeous baby names are perfect for a June baby girl

    If you have a little girl due this month and have yet to settle on the perfect name, we have some June inspiration for you As we enter the summer months, there are some names that are naturally more popular for babies born at this time of the year. From sweet references to the summer […]

    2 years ago

  • Five ways to balance screen time and real-life experiences for your kids

    Five ways to balance screen time and real-life experiences for your kids

    In today’s digital age, it’s inevitable that screen time is a part of our children’s lives While screen time itself isn’t inherently important, too much usage can lead to a disconnect from reality and can potentially contribute to disruptive behavioural issues. So, how can parents navigate the challenge of encouraging their kids to disconnect from […]

    2 years ago

  • M&S partners with Jigsaw to support youth mental health in Ireland

    M&S partners with Jigsaw to support youth mental health in Ireland

    Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced a significant three-year partnership with Jigsaw, Ireland’s leading youth mental health charity. This collaboration aims to enhance the capacity, reach, and accessibility of mental health support available to young people across Ireland through various fundraising and awareness initiatives. Fundraising Goals and Initiatives M&S has set an ambitious goal to […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘My daughter loves baking but my family expect her to do it for free’

    ‘My daughter loves baking but my family expect her to do it for free’

    A mum has reached out to other parents online to ask if she is wrong for expecting people to pay her child when she bakes for them. She explained that her 9-year-old daughter recently got into baking and has become very passionate about it. However, since the rest of her family found out about her […]

    2 years ago

  • Expert tips to prevent hay fever disrupting your kid’s sleep routine

    Expert tips to prevent hay fever disrupting your kid’s sleep routine

    Hay fever is the most common allergic condition and affects about 26% of Irish people, according to Allergy Ireland. The prevalence in Europe is estimated to be between 17-29% and it is believed to affect at least 400 million people across the globe. Met Eireann has been reporting high levels of pollen in the air […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘My husband’s surname is so unfortunate I cannot give it to my kids’

    ‘My husband’s surname is so unfortunate I cannot give it to my kids’

    A woman has sparked conversation online after saying that she couldn’t bear to give her kid’s her husband’s surname because it’s so unfortunate. She said she fears kids will constantly pick on them if they carry his last name and wants to know if she is being unreasonable. His surname is ‘Butt’, and even though […]

    2 years ago

  • Woman warns families heading away after tiny passport flaw left her stranded

    Woman warns families heading away after tiny passport flaw left her stranded

    A woman has taken to social media to warn holiday-goers of a tiny passport flaw that saw her left stranded in Sydney Airport. The fitness and wellbeing influencer said she was denied boarding over a small water stain on her passport. Emma Doherty posted her story on TikTok to warn others of the minor issue […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘We need to stop using the term ‘babysitting’ for fathers’

    ‘We need to stop using the term ‘babysitting’ for fathers’

    Have you ever described a man as “babysitting” his own child? This seemingly harmless phrase raises a crucial question: does it imply that a father is a temporary caregiver rather than an equal partner in parenting? Journalist Niamh O’Reilly has increasingly encountered this term and found that many of her friends are also aware of […]

    2 years ago

  • Mum explains the ‘amazing effect’ going screen-free has had on her kids

    Mum explains the ‘amazing effect’ going screen-free has had on her kids

    A mum has said having a screen-free home has been “amazing” for her kids She took to the internet to share her success story about her kids aged two and four who by chance, went completely screen-free. She began by explaining: “With both of my kids (4 year old girl and 2 year old boy) […]

    2 years ago

  • ‘Women cannot be expected to return to their pre-pregnancy state within 6 weeks’

    ‘Women cannot be expected to return to their pre-pregnancy state within 6 weeks’

    Gynaecologists are highlighting the fact that women experience unique recovery journeys after pregnancy and childbirth While some women may return to their pre-pregnancy selves within six weeks, others may require significantly more time, especially if they have long-term health conditions. Dr. Maeve Eogan, a gynaecologist at the Rotunda Hospital, spoke on Newstalk Breakfast about the […]

    2 years ago

  • Alarming new figures show 54% cannot afford the cost of their healthcare

    Alarming new figures show 54% cannot afford the cost of their healthcare

    New research has shown that an alarming number of people can’t meet the costs of their healthcare in Ireland The figures show that 54% say that they cannot currently afford the costs associated with their health and the health of their families. The research revealed surprising insights into the dynamic between the wider population and […]

    2 years ago

  • The importance of outdoor play as natural form of exercise

    The importance of outdoor play as natural form of exercise

    Playing outside is crucial for children’s development  It enhances their strength, coordination, and cognitive abilities while fostering a healthy curiosity about the natural world. Despite these benefits, a study by the World Health Organisation reveals that 80% of adolescents are not sufficiently active. With obesity being a significant global health concern, outdoor play provides a […]

    2 years ago

  • Social welfare recipients warned over June bank holiday payment date changes

    Social welfare recipients warned over June bank holiday payment date changes

    Anyone receiving regular social welfare payments are being advised of a payment date change As the June bank holiday fast approaches, so too does a minor change with many peoples’ payment days. The June bank holiday falls on Monday June 3rd this year and will see many social welfare sums being paid early. Banks and […]

    2 years ago

  • Here are five unusual hay fever symptoms to look out for in kids

    Here are five unusual hay fever symptoms to look out for in kids

    Hay fever season is finally in full swing There will be many little ones struggling with hay fever symptoms over the coming weeks as the warmer weather settles in for the summer months. Whether your child has suffered with this allergy before or you’re only beginning to notice some new symptoms after playing outside, there […]

    2 years ago

  • Major concern over popularity of nicotine pouches among teens

    Major concern over popularity of nicotine pouches among teens

    There is widespread concern over the rising popularity of nicotine pouches among teenagers As the summer months approach, there are fears that their popularity will “explode,” but right now it’s hard to quantify the problem. Nicotine pouches were first launched in the early ‘00s and were mainly popular in Scandinavian countries. However over the last […]

    2 years ago

  • Interactive art exhibition for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers opens in Dún Laoghaire

    Interactive art exhibition for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers opens in Dún Laoghaire

    The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Arts Office has just unveiled an exciting new interactive art exhibition, ‘Room to Explore’ The exhibition was designed especially for young children aged 0-5 years and their caregivers. Opening on May 18th, 2024, at the Municipal Gallery, dlr LexIcon, this exhibition promises a delightful and engaging experience for the youngest […]

    2 years ago

  • AI tool claims to translate what your baby’s cries mean

    AI tool claims to translate what your baby’s cries mean

    A groundbreaking innovation is making waves with claims it can “translate” your baby’s cries Cappella’s new phone app promises to inform parents of whether their infant is hungry, uncomfortable, tired, or in need of a nappy change.  It uses advanced AI technology and machine learning to accurately interpret a baby’s needs with about 95% accuracy. […]

    2 years ago

  • What’s the difference between Parent’s Leave and Parental Leave in Ireland?

    What’s the difference between Parent’s Leave and Parental Leave in Ireland?

    Believe it or not, Parent’s Leave and Parental Leave are two different things Whether you’re welcoming a bundle of joy into your family or adopting a little one, we’ve got the lowdown on everything you need to know about Parental Leave and Parent’s Leave. It can be a minefield trying to navigate the different benefits […]

    2 years ago

  • Hailey Bieber reveals her biggest pregnancy craving so far and baby name news

    Hailey Bieber reveals her biggest pregnancy craving so far and baby name news

    Since news broke of Hailey Bieber’s pregnancy, her fans want to know everything about her experience so far Hailey took to instagram to make the announcement on May 9th with a sweet video featuring her and husband, Justin Bieber. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hailey Rhode Baldwin Bieber (@haileybieber) Now, after […]

    2 years ago

  • E-scooters banned for under 16s in Ireland from Monday

    E-scooters banned for under 16s in Ireland from Monday

    Under 16s will be banned from using e-scooters, e-bikes and e-mopeds from Monday, May 20th New regulations coming into effect on Monday under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 will see e-scooters and e-bikes/e-mopeds banned for under 16s. From May 20th, the new regulations will layout the rules of the road for people choosing […]

    2 years ago

  • These parenting apps are essential for keeping your children safe online

    These parenting apps are essential for keeping your children safe online

    In today’s digital landscape, where children are increasingly immersed in technology, parents face the daunting task of trying to keep them safe online. Ethan Bennet, an expert from Sonin, is showcasing the indispensable role of mobile apps in keeping little ones safe online. He offers insights into some of these essential tools that are designed […]

    2 years ago

  • Carl Mullan opens up about the complexities of fatherhood

    Carl Mullan opens up about the complexities of fatherhood

    Carl Mullan is breaking the silence and giving voice to the seldom-discussed challenges and triumphs of fatherhood In a candid interview with the Irish Times, Carl delved into the complexities of navigating fatherhood while juggling professional responsibilities and personal well-being.  Welcoming a child into the world is both a joyful and an undeniably daunting experience. […]

    2 years ago

  • Government approves plans to raise the age of sale of tobacco to 21 in Ireland

    Government approves plans to raise the age of sale of tobacco to 21 in Ireland

    Ireland is set to become the first country in the European Union to raise the age of sale of tobacco to 21 In a groundbreaking move, Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, alongside Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy Colm Burke, announced the approval of a proposal by the Cabinet to raise […]

    2 years ago