Lunchtime Live

With the school term back in full swing, many children are excited to see their friends and return to routine, but for some families, the return to school can bring anxiety, fear and school refusal.
How can parents support children who are struggling? Should we listen to their fears and give them time, or can staying home make returning even harder?
School refusal is often a sign that something deeper is going on, whether it’s anxiety, friendships, bullying, academic pressure or feeling overwhelmed…
Have you experienced school refusal as a parent? What helped your child, and what advice would you give to other families going through it?
Joining Andrea to discuss is Neurodevelopmental Therapist and Founder of CogniClinic.ie, Ollwyn Moran and listeners.

Lunchtime Live's Reasons to be Happy looks at some of the news stories that you might have missed that will leave you feeling more optimistic.
98FM’s Cathal O’Sullivan joined Andrea in the studio to put a smile on your faces…

Following an NTA consultation, dogs, cats and other pets are expected to be allowed greater access to bus, trains and trams…
Is that good news for you? Should pets be allowed on public transport?
Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss.

Every Wednesday afternoon, we’ll be talking Making Babies.
Andrea will be joined by Professor Shane Higgins, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, to cover every area of trying to have a baby. From the very start of knowing how to prepare, right up to pregnancy – and all the bumps in the road in between.
This week, Shane joins Andrea to discuss twins and multiple pregnancies!

Fontaines D.C. have announced a second night at Slane Castle next summer.
How big is this for the band, and what makes a venue like Slane so special?
Danny McElhinney, Music Journalist with the Irish Mail on Sunday, joins Andrea to discuss.