Articles by Sophie Collins
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  • Teacher’s Union raises concern over students’ use of AI in Leaving Cert coursework

    Teacher’s Union raises concern over students’ use of AI in Leaving Cert coursework

    The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked fears among teachers that it could compromise the integrity of the Leaving Cert.  That’s according to the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) who say it’s becoming increasingly difficult to tell if someone has used AI in their school projects. As coursework becomes more of a focus in […]

    1 year ago

  • TikTok mum warns others not to make common mistake with baby names

    TikTok mum warns others not to make common mistake with baby names

    “You’re naming adults, not babies” Several mums on TikTok are advising parents to be wary of what they decide to name their children, amid a rise in particularly unique names. While some parents opt to give their children traditional names like Sarah or John, there has been an increase in babies being given names they’ll […]

    1 year ago

  • Teacher comes up with great way to stop kids saying inappropriate words in public

    Teacher comes up with great way to stop kids saying inappropriate words in public

    “It is all about your reaction” Every parent and guardian will have experienced a moment in their kid’s life when the little ones blurt out something inappropriate in front of company. Although it’s completely natural – and sometimes funny – it’s all part of them developing awareness of everything around them. Despite the humorous side […]

    1 year ago

  • Here are some ways to help your child to build self esteem and confidence

    Here are some ways to help your child to build self esteem and confidence

    Teaching your little one to build self-esteem and confidence is essential, even when they’re just toddlers. Between the ages of one and two, your child will be growing and developing in many ways; cognitively, emotionally, and physically. Some of the milestones they will be reaching at this stage of life, according to the HSE, include: […]

    1 year ago

  • Urgent recall issued for popular Stanley product due to burn risk

    Urgent recall issued for popular Stanley product due to burn risk

    The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has issued an urgent recall for Stanley’s Trigger Action Travel Mugs due to safety concerns.  The recall affects over 200 units in the Republic of Ireland and has been initiated by Stanley 1913. The recall was prompted by the risk of burns associated with the product. According to […]

    1 year ago

  • Parenting expert’s advice to parents dealing with extreme tantrums at home

    Parenting expert’s advice to parents dealing with extreme tantrums at home

    A concerned mum recently opened up about her three-year-old son’s alarming habit of biting himself when he’s having tantrums.  Speaking to Sean Moncrieff on Newstalk, she described how her child’s frustration often leads to biting, sometimes breaking the skin.   The mum explained that the behaviour typically occurs in moments of transition or frustration, like when the […]

    1 year ago

  • How to navigate skincare during pregnancy

    How to navigate skincare during pregnancy

    Pregnancy is a transformative time for both your body and your skincare routine The tried-and-true products you once swore by might now contain ingredients that are unsuitable for expectant mothers. With hormone fluctuations affecting the skin and certain ingredients needing to be avoided, it can feel overwhelming to figure out what’s safe and what’s not. […]

    1 year ago

  • Chrissy Teigen shares very relatable parenting struggle – “They hate it”

    Chrissy Teigen shares very relatable parenting struggle – “They hate it”

    Chrissy Teigen may be a model and bestselling cookbook author, but when it comes to parenting, she’s just like any other mom – especially when dealing with picky eaters. On February 12th, Teigen took to her Instagram Stories to share a classic dinnertime struggle with her youngest children, Esti and Wren. After preparing a homemade […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘I am not ok’ – Stacey Solomon shares emotional milestone with youngest daughter Belle

    ‘I am not ok’ – Stacey Solomon shares emotional milestone with youngest daughter Belle

    “She ran straight in and never looked back” TV personality Stacey Solomon has given fans a heartfelt glimpse into a major family moment. Two-year-old, Belle, the youngest of Stacey’s five children, started nursery for the first time – an experience that left the mum feeling emotional.   Sharing the milestone on Instagram, Stacey posted a touching […]

    1 year ago

  • Taoiseach confirms there will be no cost of living package or energy credits in next Budget

    Taoiseach confirms there will be no cost of living package or energy credits in next Budget

    Taoiseach Micheál Martin has confirmed that there are no plans to introduce a new cost-of-living package or continue the €250 energy credit in Budget 2026. Last year’s budget, announced in October, provided significant relief for households across the country, with cost-of-living measures totalling €2.6 billion.  It was the largest social welfare package in the State’s […]

    1 year ago

  • Breastfeeding: 15 steps to help your baby latch well

    Breastfeeding: 15 steps to help your baby latch well

    Breastfeeding is such a unique journey for every mum. Some are lucky enough to find it easy to get the hang of things, but many others have difficulty – there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The HSE has some great advice on things you can do to help your baby to latch well from the beginning […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘We don’t know why Lily Collins and her husband chose to use surrogacy – and it’s none of our business’

    ‘We don’t know why Lily Collins and her husband chose to use surrogacy – and it’s none of our business’

    Surrogacy lawyer, Natalie Sutherland has weighed in on the backlash Lily Collins and her husband faced after announcing the birth of their daughter via surrogacy After the couple shared their happy news on Instagram, they received many lovely messages, but also criticism from people questioning their decision to use a surrogate.  Collins’ husband, Paul McDonald, […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘School phone bans alone are not enough to tackle the negative impacts’

    ‘School phone bans alone are not enough to tackle the negative impacts’

    It seems the recent phone ban that was implemented in schools across Ireland has not done enough to actually tackle negative impacts That’s according to the authors of a study on school phone bans, who say they are “surprised” to see that it has had very little impact on school children. Education Minister, Norma Foley, […]

    1 year ago

  • What passengers need to know about Ryanair’s new rules for 2025

    What passengers need to know about Ryanair’s new rules for 2025

    As summer approaches, many of us are starting to plan our 2025 holidays Before booking, it’s important to be aware of any changes to airline rules to avoid unexpected fees, especially when flying with Ryanair. Ryanair, known for its strict policies, has announced a major update starting in May 2025. From that time, the airline […]

    1 year ago

  • Symptoms to watch out for as GP warns we are ‘still in the RSV and flu season’

    Symptoms to watch out for as GP warns we are ‘still in the RSV and flu season’

    The warmer weather can trick us into feeling like we’re out of the RSV and Flu woods, but parents need to remain vigilant That’s according to GP, Dr. Maire Finn from Ennis Centric health who says we “are still in the RSV and Flu season”. Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, cause infections in […]

    1 year ago

  • Panel of experts present ‘new medical evidence’ in Lucy Letby case

    Panel of experts present ‘new medical evidence’ in Lucy Letby case

    Recent developments have emerged in the case of Lucy Letby. The former neonatal nurse was convicted in 2023 for the murders of seven infants and the attempted murders of seven others at the Countess of Chester Hospital. An international panel of 14 medical experts, led by Canadian neonatologist, Dr. Shoo Lee, has conducted a comprehensive […]

    1 year ago

  • Five things to remember when choosing a child’s first pair of shoes

    Five things to remember when choosing a child’s first pair of shoes

    There is a lot more to choosing your little one’s first pair of shoes than picking out a colour and design that they like. Finding a pair that is suitable for their development and their age is imperative. For those who are maybe unsure about where to start, Alison McGrath, owner of My First Steps […]

    1 year ago

  • EU proposes scanning private messages to tackle child abuse, sparking privacy concerns

    EU proposes scanning private messages to tackle child abuse, sparking privacy concerns

    Private messages on apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, and Snapchat could soon be under the microscope if the EU’s latest child protection law gets the green light The proposed legislation, first introduced in 2022, would mean all digital communications – photos, videos, texts, and even links – will be scanned for child abuse material.  This move […]

    1 year ago

  • Charlotte Crosby welcomes second baby with fiancé Jake Ankers

    Charlotte Crosby welcomes second baby with fiancé Jake Ankers

    Huge congratulations are in order for Charlotte Crosby! Charlotte Crosby welcomed her second little one last week with her fiancé, Jake Ankers by her side. Pixi Cecilia was born on January 31st, the star confirmed on Instagram. The pair already share an older daughter, Alba. Crosby took to social media to gush about her new […]

    1 year ago

  • Parents warned about harmful chemicals in kids’ shoes sold on TEMU

    Parents warned about harmful chemicals in kids’ shoes sold on TEMU

    If you’ve recently bought kids’ shoes from TEMU, you might want to double-check them. A serious safety warning has been issued about two types of children’s footwear because they could contain dangerous chemicals.  Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has recalled two different kids’ shoe styles sold on the popular shopping platform.  They were […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘Should I be worried about my five-year-old’s habit of lying?’

    ‘Should I be worried about my five-year-old’s habit of lying?’

    When do kids’ fibs become a bigger issue? One mum has said she is beginning to worry about her five-year-old’s fibs and wants to know what she should do. Speaking to Newstalk, the mum shared: “Our five-year-old seems to be a rather unreliable narrator of her own life. “We never know for sure if what […]

    1 year ago

  • 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