Articles by Sophie Collins
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  • These budget-friendly skincare products saved my skin in pregnancy

    These budget-friendly skincare products saved my skin in pregnancy

    Pregnancy can often bring with it some unwelcome skin changes For me, it was the resurgence of hormonal acne that threw a wrench in my otherwise carefully curated, pregnancy-safe skincare routine. I’d been reluctant to pare back my steps entirely because I genuinely loved the products I was using – but as the breakouts worsened, […]

    8 months ago

  • Doireann Garrihy reveals the affordable Irish haircare product she’s loving

    Doireann Garrihy reveals the affordable Irish haircare product she’s loving

    This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on any sales generated from it. So many new mums can relate to the struggle that is postpartum hair loss and are constantly searching for products to help minimise fall. Irish presenter, Doireann Garrihy took to Instagram to shoutout an Irish product that she has […]

    8 months ago

  • Expert lists two ‘most dangerous’ picture posts parents can put on social media

    Expert lists two ‘most dangerous’ picture posts parents can put on social media

    The dangers around social media posts and oversharing information are well-known, particularly among parents. We spend so much time teaching our little ones what they should and shouldn’t post online, but a parenting expert has brought attention to two of the most dangerous things parents continue to post. Parenting coach and content creator, Lucinda Rose […]

    8 months ago

  • Mum asks for advice after realising her teen daughter is sneaking out

    Mum asks for advice after realising her teen daughter is sneaking out

    Remember, they always come back around A concerned mum recently turned to Reddit for advice after a late-night incident involving her teen daughter. In her post, she explained that she was woken up at 2:30 am by a phone call from her daughter, who had been pulled over nearby due to a broken taillight. “I […]

    8 months ago

  • Expert advice on fussy eating and how to turn mealtimes into a positive experience

    Expert advice on fussy eating and how to turn mealtimes into a positive experience

    Feeding kids a balanced and nutritious diet can be hard, especially if you’re dealing with a fussy eater Trying to get little ones to try new foods, or even eat their veggies, can be a stressful task, which means many parents are constantly searching for creative ways to sneak in some goodness.  To help, mother […]

    8 months ago

  • Government set to confirm plans for under-16s social media ban

    Government set to confirm plans for under-16s social media ban

    A new Digital and AI Strategy is due to be considered by the Cabinet and will look to introduce age restrictions on social media sites. According to reports, the plan will heavily focus on online safety with new legislation on the way to restrict under-16s from accessing social media. The first step will be a […]

    8 months ago

  • Children are sharing things they wouldn’t tell parents or teachers with AI chatbots

    Children are sharing things they wouldn’t tell parents or teachers with AI chatbots

    “Chatbots are built to feel helpful, friendly and constantly available. For a child, that can make it very easy to forget they’re talking to a system, not a person” New research is suggesting that children are forming emotional connections with chatbots and are also acting on the advice they receive. According to the research, 81% […]

    8 months ago

  • ‘Stay-at-home parents should be earning €60,000 for day-to-day jobs’

    ‘Stay-at-home parents should be earning €60,000 for day-to-day jobs’

    A new survey has estimated that stay-at-home parents should earn over €60,000 for the day-to-day jobs they carry out. According to Royal London Ireland, it would cost a total of €60,112 to ‘employ’ someone to carry out the household roles of a stay-at-home parent. Despite this, 82% of people surveyed still don’t recognise the monetary […]

    8 months ago

  • Adam King to star in new animated adventure series on RTEjr

    Adam King to star in new animated adventure series on RTEjr

    Adam King is coming back to Irish screens! The Late Late Toy Show star is lending his voice to a new animated series, Adam Loves Adventure.  Adam Loves Adventure is a science-fiction adventure comedy for young children. King plays a problem-solving space explorer who uses his big heart and space smarts to make new friends […]

    8 months ago

  • Junior Eurovision 2026 applications are open – what you need to know

    Junior Eurovision 2026 applications are open – what you need to know

    Is your son, daughter, niece or nephew a musical marvel? TG4 and Adare Productions are on the hunt for the Top 10 young singers or groups in Ireland ahead of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. Hopefuls can apply to battle it out for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent Ireland at an international level. Auditions will […]

    8 months ago

  • New data shows ‘young people in Ireland are experiencing a mental health crisis’

    New data shows ‘young people in Ireland are experiencing a mental health crisis’

    Anxiety, stress and isolation are among the top mental health concerns for young people in Ireland. That’s according to new data released today in relation to the use of spunout’s Text About It service. The data also showed an increase in demand for the service with a 9.4% increase in 2025 compared to 2024. Text […]

    8 months ago

  • Four fascinating facts about February babies

    Four fascinating facts about February babies

    If you were born in February or know someone who was, you might be surprised to learn that people born in this month have some unique traits and fun facts associated with their birth. From zodiac influences to scientific studies, here are four interesting facts about February babies.   They’re more likely to be artists Studies […]

    8 months ago

  • Parenting consultant offers advice as kids’ party costs soar

    Parenting consultant offers advice as kids’ party costs soar

    New research in the UK has shown that the average kid’s party now costs hundreds. Every parent wants to make their little one’s day special, no matter what the age, and the cost of cakes, party bags, bouncy castles and other add-ons has seen costs jump. In the age of social media, parents can feel […]

    8 months ago

  • Ireland’s sexual offence rate is 43% above EU average

    Ireland’s sexual offence rate is 43% above EU average

    The average number of sexual offences reported in Ireland between 2019 and 2023 was 43% higher than the EU average. A new report comparing Ireland’s justice system to other countries has shown some alarming statistics in relation to sexual offences. The average number reported in Ireland between 2019 and 2023 was 43% higher than the […]

    8 months ago

  • Mum faces huge backlash online for ‘disrespectful’ shopping hack

    Mum faces huge backlash online for ‘disrespectful’ shopping hack

    A mum has attracted criticism online after sharing a controversial parenting “hack” that many say unfairly exploits retail workers. In a now-deleted TikTok video, the mum-of-one explained her approach, which has been reposted and criticised by another TikTok user, @unpluggedmoments. The video showed the mother allowing her daughter to pick up multiple items while shopping, […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘How long should I wait to bathe my newborn?’ Experts explain

    ‘How long should I wait to bathe my newborn?’ Experts explain

    Many newborns are given their first bath shortly after they’re born, but research suggests this might not be best for baby Parents might want to wait to wash their new arrival as he or she could benefit from vernix, the substance that’s on a baby’s skin when it’s born. The white, waxy film on the […]

    1 year ago

  • How to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and labour contractions?

    How to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and labour contractions?

    Knowing the difference between Braxton Hicks and Labour contractions is important During pregnancy, it’s common to experience uterine contractions. Understanding the differences can help in determining when labour has truly begun. So, we’ve done the research for you (and for me) about what to expect and when to head to the hospital. Braxton Hicks contractions […]

    1 year ago

  • CPR experts explain serious danger of kids wearing blue swimsuits

    CPR experts explain serious danger of kids wearing blue swimsuits

    Blue swimsuits should not be worn this summer Parents are being warned not to purchase blue swimsuits for their children this summer as they can pose a dangerous risk many of us are not aware of. The summer season is fast approaching, and parents across Ireland will be scrambling to pick up the usual holiday […]

    1 year ago

  • Swimming coach warns parents not to put towel around kids’ shoulders

    Swimming coach warns parents not to put towel around kids’ shoulders

    Parents are praising a certified swim instructor who has taken to TikTok to advise parents on the correct way to wrap their child in a towel to avoid injury Nikki Scarnati, who is also a water safety advocate and drowning prevention educator, has taken to TikTok to educate parents about the best way to dry […]

    1 year ago

  • Experts predict timeline for decline in house prices in Ireland

    Experts predict timeline for decline in house prices in Ireland

    Finally, some welcome housing news!! The Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) has predicted that average house prices may soon begin to fall. The news comes despite the fact that property costs surged by 7.3% between May 2023 and May 2024. The BPFI released its latest Housing Market Monitor report, and it has indicated that […]

    1 year ago

  • What parents need to know about school attendance in Ireland

    What parents need to know about school attendance in Ireland

    Making sure your child goes to school every day is important, but did you know that schools have legal responsibilities when it comes to attendance? Here’s what parents should know about how schools track attendance, what happens if a child misses too much school, and what to do if your child is put on a […]

    1 year ago

  • Kids’ flip flops recalled due to harmful chemicals after thousands sold in Ireland

    Kids’ flip flops recalled due to harmful chemicals after thousands sold in Ireland

    An urgent recall has been issued for Hoot Girls Printed Flip Flops due to the presence of potentially dangerous chemicals. Gem Imports Limited, the distributor, has said these flip flops contain phthalates exceeding permitted levels, posing potential health risks to children. The brand is Hoot, the affected model number is TOY5313/OB, with a batch number […]

    1 year ago

  • Mum shares brilliant and quick cleaning trick for kids’ shoes

    Mum shares brilliant and quick cleaning trick for kids’ shoes

    We will absolutely be trying this! A mum has shared her great way of making sure her kid’s shoes are always looking brand new and it only takes her a couple of minutes. Eilidh Wells often shares home hacks and fashion inspiration on social media (@eilidhwells) over on TikTok. In a recent video, the mum […]

    1 year ago

  • Children’s music set recalled due to risk of choking

    Children’s music set recalled due to risk of choking

    Parents are urged to stop using the Just Bee Kids Music Set immediately due to serious safety concerns Infinity Reliance, trading as Just Bee Kids, has issued a recall for this product following reports that the cymbals on the tambourine can become loose, creating small parts that pose choking, cutting, and ingestion hazards for children. […]

    1 year ago

  • Penneys shopper spots €4 dupes of popular Jellycat toys

    Penneys shopper spots €4 dupes of popular Jellycat toys

    Penneys fans are rushing to get their hands on new €4 mugs and €8 soft toys that closely resemble Jellycat’s popular €23 plush toys.   A Jellycat enthusiast, Kimberely, recently shared her find from a Primark store in Bristol on social media, pointing out the mugs’ striking similarity to Jellycat’s well-known designs.   The collection includes adorable […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘Students are now choosing subjects to maximise CAO points, not out of interest’

    ‘Students are now choosing subjects to maximise CAO points, not out of interest’

    “Students are picking maths for the bonus points, they’re not picking maths in order to study maths” The 25 bonus points awarded to Leaving Certificate students for passing higher-level maths are lowering educational standards, according to some secondary school teachers. Upcoming changes are set to see class projects made part of the Leaving Cert assessment, […]

    1 year ago

  • HPV Awareness Day: Eight facts everyone should know

    HPV Awareness Day: Eight facts everyone should know

    On HPV Awareness Day, we should all take a minute to understand this virus better. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral infections, yet many people are still unaware of how it spreads, its potential risks, and the importance of prevention. Here are eight key facts the HSE has outlined about HPV: […]

    1 year ago

  • Government unveils major commitments for women’s health in 2025

    Government unveils major commitments for women’s health in 2025

    The Irish government insists it is committed to advancing women’s healthcare in 2025. It is promising new initiatives aimed at tackling gender-specific health challenges as part of Women’s Health Week 2025. Ministers have promised to build on the progress made since the launch of the Women’s Health Action Plan, which was announced in April of […]

    1 year ago

  • Finance Minister confirms there will be no more energy credits in future budgets

    Finance Minister confirms there will be no more energy credits in future budgets

    If you’ve been counting on those handy electricity credits in the budget each year, it looks like that’s coming to an end. Finance Minister, Jack Chambers has confirmed that energy credits won’t be part of future budgets, as the government shifts its approach to tackling rising electricity costs.   For the past few years, households have […]

    1 year ago

  • Popular kid’s cereal recalled in Ireland due to health risk

    Popular kid’s cereal recalled in Ireland due to health risk

    A popular kids cereal has been recalled due to a health risk An urgent recall has been published in Ireland and the UK due an issue with batches of the popular Shreddies cereal. Cereal Partners UK and Ireland issued a statement on Friday morning to confirm the voluntary recall of 12 batches of Nestlé Frosted […]

    1 year ago

  • School principals call for change as education system ‘fails to deliver’ for students

    School principals call for change as education system ‘fails to deliver’ for students

    School principals across Ireland are raising serious concerns about the country’s education system, warning that it is “failing to deliver for all students”  There are growing issues like student disengagement, poor attendance, and rising anxiety levels and many believe the system is no longer fit for purpose. These concerns were being addressed on Thursday at […]

    1 year ago

  • Lack of laws around vaping in Ireland is ‘normalising’ the act of smoking to children

    Lack of laws around vaping in Ireland is ‘normalising’ the act of smoking to children

    The Irish Heart Foundation has raised concerns over vaping being normalised in Ireland There are currently no laws in place to ban vaping in public spaces, and officials are now saying that this normalises it in the eyes of children. Speaking to Newstalk about this issue, spokesperson Mark Murphy said: “If you’re a child or a teenager […]

    1 year ago

  • CCPC recall kid’s toy due to fire hazard after thousands sold in Ireland

    CCPC recall kid’s toy due to fire hazard after thousands sold in Ireland

    There have been 2,756 affected YOTO toys sold in the Republic of Ireland, so this affects many parents across the country The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has issued a recall on a popular Yoto kid’s toy this week Officials said a “safety issue has been identified with the Yoto Mini (2021-2023 Edition).”   The kid’s […]

    1 year ago

  • New event launched in Ireland to empower, educate, and celebrate new mums and dads

    New event launched in Ireland to empower, educate, and celebrate new mums and dads

    Expecting a baby is a life-changing journey, filled with excitement, questions, and sometimes a little uncertainty  To support parents through this time, Little Roo is hosting Welcome to the World, an exclusive event. It’s designed to empower, educate, and celebrate families as they navigate pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. Taking place on March 8th from […]

    1 year ago

  • When can my baby sleep with a blanket? Experts explain safe sleep methods

    When can my baby sleep with a blanket? Experts explain safe sleep methods

    We may be heading into Spring, but Ireland’s nighttime temperatures always seem to drop until we’re in the height of summer With a newborn, the urge to make sure they’re wrapped up and warm in their co-sleeper or cot is only natural – however, you need to be careful with blankets. “While it might be […]

    1 year ago

  • Top tips for dressing your baby for sleep and one golden rule to follow

    Top tips for dressing your baby for sleep and one golden rule to follow

    Any new or experienced parents will have lived through or are currently experiencing the newborn trenches There will be times when you feel like nothing seems to settle your little one and you’re likely googling tips and tricks on how to get them to sleep. Rest really is the holy grail of early parenthood (if […]

    1 year ago

  • Expert believes children shouldn’t always be expected to share

    Expert believes children shouldn’t always be expected to share

    For generations, parents have encouraged their children to share, reinforcing the idea that “sharing is caring” However, not everyone believes children should always be expected to give up their belongings simply because others ask. Parenting consultant Kirsty Ketley takes a different approach, teaching her children that they have the right to say no when it […]

    1 year ago

  • Irish rent prices ‘keep climbing’ according to latest Daft report

    Irish rent prices ‘keep climbing’ according to latest Daft report

    If you’re renting in Dublin, you’ve probably noticed that rent costs just keep climbing According to the latest Daft.ie Rental Report, the average rent in Dublin city was 4% higher in the last three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. That brings the average listed rent in the capital to a […]

    1 year ago

  • Expert explains how parents can effectively help their children cope with divorce

    Expert explains how parents can effectively help their children cope with divorce

    A mum recently reached out for advice on how to help her 10-year-old son process her separation from his dad She said she believes their split was the right decision, but worries about the emotional toll it might be taking on her child.   After years of unhappiness, she explained that financial constraints had kept her […]

    1 year ago

  • Ireland is among the least affordable countries for parents in Europe

    Ireland is among the least affordable countries for parents in Europe

    Raising children is one of the most rewarding but financially demanding parts of life, and the cost varies greatly from country to country A recent study by Ubuy, a cross-border e-commerce platform, has ranked European countries based on affordability for parents, taking into account things like maternity and paternity leave, childcare costs, and family benefits.  […]

    1 year ago

  • ‘My five-year-old refuses to go to school, I don’t know what to do’

    ‘My five-year-old refuses to go to school, I don’t know what to do’

    A woman has asked for advice because her young step-son is vehemently refusing to go to school. She said she fears the five-year-old is going to ‘spiral out of control’ and that everyday she is receiving calls from his school to collect him after an hour. The step-mum explained that the school even put him […]

    1 year ago

  • HSE warn of rise in winter bug cases in Ireland and issue advice to parents

    HSE warn of rise in winter bug cases in Ireland and issue advice to parents

    Health experts are urging the public to be cautious as cases of norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, continue to rise The Health Service Executive (HSE) has reported a significant increase in infections and expects the virus to continue circulating in communities for the coming weeks.  Norovirus spreads easily through direct contact, contaminated […]

    1 year ago