In this week’s episode, Aoife and Jenny chat to Dr. Gillian Lake from ChildPaths, who sponsored this episode, about the recent updates to Aistear and what they mean for Early Years Educators across Ireland.

They dive into how ChildPaths has adapted its software to stay fully aligned with the revised framework — including the new Learning Record feature that reflects the four parts of the cycle of reflection: Noticing, Nurturing, Responding, and Reflecting.

Dr. Lake also shares how ChildPaths has supported its customers and clients with a four-part CPD series, exclusive resource packs, recorded webinars, and ongoing training designed to make the transition smoother not just for Educators, but also for Owners and Managers.

It’s a practical and insightful conversation about staying ahead of big sector changes — and how the right tools and training can make all the difference.

Check out ChildPaths on Instagram and visit their website for more information.

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Some people record in peaceful studios with perfect soundproofing. We, on the other hand, recorded this one in between a toddler wrestling match, a crying contest, and several suspicious crashes from the next room. It’s 14 minutes of pure multitasking magic as Aoife juggles mute buttons, crisis management, and an actual conversation with Jenny. Come for the chat, stay for the chaos — and maybe feel a little better about your own Monday.

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Aoife’s back from five weeks in Ireland — a trip filled with toddler chaos, sickness delays, and the full-on reality of travelling with two kids. Meanwhile, Jenny’s gearing up for her well-deserved holiday, enjoying the calm while Aoife's been deep in the mayhem. We chat about the week we missed, the juggle of summer life, and what’s coming next.

It’s honest, messy, and very us.

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In this heartfelt episode, Aoife and Jenny sit down to reflect on the emotional journey that follows birth, the part we don’t always talk about. Aoife opens up about her two very different birth experiences, sharing the raw and real emotions that came with each — the joy, the grief, the guilt, and the healing.

Together, they explore how recovery is about so much more than stitches and sleep. It’s about the quiet moments when you question everything, the invisible weight mothers carry, and the strength it takes to ask for help. Whether you’ve walked this road yourself or know someone who has, this episode is a tender reminder that you’re not alone and that every journey is valid.

If you’ve been affected by anything in this episode, you’re not alone. Support is available:

Ireland-based support:

• Parentline – 01 873 3500 | parentline.ie
  Confidential helpline for all parenting challenges, including postnatal support.
• AIM Family Support Service – Through Tusla or local family resource centres.
  Offers emotional and practical support to parents.
• Postnatal Depression Ireland (PND Ireland) – pnd.ie
  Information, support and lived experiences around postnatal mental health.
• Your GP or Public Health Nurse – Always a good first step if you’re unsure where to turn.

Immediate support:

• Samaritans (24/7 listening support) – 116 123 | samaritans.ie

American Support Resources:

• Postpartum Support International (PSI)
  Helpline: 1-800-944-4773 or text 503-894-9453
  Website: postpartum.net
  Support for postpartum depression, anxiety, and related challenges.
• MotherToBaby
  Website: mothertobaby.org
  Information on medications and breastfeeding, plus pregnancy and postpartum health.
• The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
  Call or text: 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746)
  Support specifically for maternal mental health concerns.
• Local healthcare providers, therapists, or community groups
  Always good to reach out to your doctor or counselor.

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In this episode, Aoife and Jenny dive into the UN’s new International Day of Play and why it’s more than just a celebration. They discuss play as a fundamental right, not a luxury, and explore why it's still being overlooked around the world. While applauding the UN for spotlighting play, they also ask the big question: why do we even need a day to remind the world? Join them as they unpack what play truly means for childhood, development, and global equality.

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Life got busy (again!), but we’re back with everything you missed—doctor runs, family chaos, and fresh news on the childcare scene in Ireland. It’s a little bit of everything, just like life with little ones.

Grab a cuppa and let’s catch up!

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In this week’s episode, Jenny chats with Aoife about her recent experience touring a preschool for her little boy, Theo. Aoife shares what the visit was really like — from first impressions and key questions to those gut feelings that are hard to ignore.

They talk through the emotional side of preparing for this next big step, what stood out (both good and not-so-good), and whether Theo was offered a spot. It’s a real and relatable look at one of parenting’s big early decisions.

If you’re thinking about preschool for your child, or just want to hear how another parent navigated the process, this one’s for you!

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Wow… 100 episodes. It’s hard to believe how far we’ve come. What started as a simple idea has grown into something truly special—thanks to you. Every conversation we’ve had, every guest who’s shared their voice, and every single one of you who listened, supported, and encouraged us along the way… you’ve made this journey what it is.

From the bottom of our hearts—thank you. 💖

Here’s to the memories we’ve made, the lives we’ve touched, and the many more steps we’ll take together. This episode is a celebration of the past and a hopeful look toward what’s still to come.

Let’s raise a toast to the next chapter—cheers to 100 more! 🥂

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