Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast

In this episode, Aoife and Jenny chat about how Aoife has been on both sides of the table, first as a teacher, and now as a mom attending parent-teacher conferences. It’s funny how different it feels! 
They share what these meetings are really like, how to focus on the useful insights, and why some comments are just noise. Honest, relatable, and full of tips for parents navigating the US school system... without losing your sense of humor!
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In this episode, Aoife and Jenny talk about why Little Steps, Big Futures went quiet for a few weeks and why sometimes rest is not a choice, it is a necessity. Between illness in their families and winter weather chaos, capacity was low and pushing through did not feel right.

Aoife shares the reality of an ice storm with small kids. No school, no preschool, no outdoor time and routines disappearing overnight. They talk about cabin fever, nervous system overload, and letting go of expectations when survival mode takes over.

They also acknowledge the sixth anniversary of the Dublin protest for Early Years Educators, a moment worth marking.

They are easing back in, not catching up. If winter has knocked the wind out of you too, you are not alone. They are glad to be back.
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In this episode, Aoife and Jenny chat about easing into the Christmas season and bringing the focus back to what really matters. Instead of getting swept up in the pressure for perfect gifts and perfect moments, they talk about choosing connection, presence and simple traditions that kids remember long after the toys lose their shine. Whether it’s baking, reading Christmas stories or just slowing down together, Aoife and Jenny remind us that the magic comes from the time we give, not the things we buy.
They also open an important conversation about online sharing. With school concerts, Santa visits and festive photos everywhere, it’s easy to post without thinking. After the recent Irish Pause Before You Post campaign video, Aoife and Jenny discuss the risks of sharing too much, how small details in a photo can reveal more than we intend and a few gentle ways parents can protect their children’s privacy while still capturing memories.
It’s a thoughtful, down to earth episode about connection over perfection and staying mindful as we share our families’ Christmas moments.

Catch the video here!
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In this week’s episode, Aoife and Jenny chat about the ups and downs of school life, from Theo’s sudden change in drop-off confidence to how those emotional mornings can hit parents harder than we expect. 
They also dive into a common frustration for many families: the short time children get to eat their lunches in school. It’s a heartfelt, honest conversation about emotions, empathy, and advocating for the little things that make a big difference in children’s days.
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Aoife and Jenny catch up about Theo’s first month in preschool, sharing the little moments, surprises, and milestones that come with this big transition. From the excitement of new routines to the bittersweet feelings of sending your child off for the first time, they explore the joys and challenges of early childhood from a parent’s perspective.

They also reflect on their past experiences as educators, talking honestly about the demands and overstimulation that come with working in early years settings. Together, they discuss strategies for finding self-care, protecting your energy, and keeping a healthy balance without taking work home.

A heartfelt, relatable conversation for anyone navigating the ups and downs of parenting, teaching, and the delicate art of caring for yourself along the way.
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