Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast
Hosted by sisters-in-law Aoife Murphy and Jenny McCarthy, Little Steps, Big Futures is your go-to podcast for insights into Early Childhood Education and parenting.
Aoife, now a stay-at-home mom to two boys, and Jenny, who is furthering her career in her new role at ChildPaths, share practical tips, real-life stories, and expert advice drawn from their experiences as former Early Years Professionals. Whether you're a parent or an educator, this podcast is packed with relatable moments and useful strategies to help support your little ones’ development—delivered in a fun, down-to-earth way. Let’s dive in, one step at a time!
Episodes
101 episodes
Episode 100!
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...
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Episode 100
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30:02
From One to Two: More Love, Less Sleep
In this episode, Aoife and Jenny get real about the shift from one child to two. Aoife shares what life’s actually been like since baby number two arrived—more chaos, bigger emotions, and double the love. Jenny weighs in as the proud (...
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Episode 99
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36:26
Starting Out in Early Childhood Education
In this episode, Aoife and Jenny share their personal experiences with college placements and the exciting journey of starting a career in early childhood education. From navigating placements to offering valuable tips for success, they dive in...
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Episode 98
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41:29
Mind Your Words: Shaping Positive Language for Kids
In this week's episode, Aoife and Jenny explore how young children naturally use descriptive language — and when words like "fat" start to carry negative meanings. They discuss examples from popular books and TV shows, like The Ver...
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Episode 97
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35:47
The Power of Play
In this episode, Aoife and Jenny talk about The Power of Play—why it’s more than just fun and how it shapes a child’s development. From building coordination and creativity to strengthening social and problem-solving skills, play is at the hear...
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Episode 96
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39:25
Post-Christmas Catch-Up
Join Aoife and Jenny for their first episode of the new year as they catch up after Christmas! They chat about the holiday highs, the back-to-reality moments, and what’s ahead for Little Steps in 2025. Tune in for a relaxed and fun star...
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Episode 95
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32:53
Toddler Tantrums: Surviving the Meltdown Moments
In this episode of Little Steps, Big Futures, we tackle the rollercoaster ride of parenting two-year-olds—specifically, those infamous tantrums! From understanding the triggers behind the meltdowns to practical strategies for managing ...
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Episode 94
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27:26
The Changing Landscape of Childcare in Ireland
In this episode Jenny and Aoife, examine the latest developments in the childcare sector in Ireland, focusing on the concerning rise in service closures. What’s driving these closures, and how are families and educators being affected? We discu...
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Episode 93
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23:58
Remembering Loved Ones with Littles
In this heartfelt episode, Aoife and Jenny explore gentle ways to keep memories alive, using examples from our own lives, like stories of Jenny's mom and the boys nana, Nana Kay. We’ll discuss how to share simple memories, introduc...
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Episode 92
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30:47
Forever Online: A Child's Digital Footprint
In this episode, Aoife and Jenny explore the impact of children’s digital footprints in family-focused influencer content. They discuss the rise of family vlogs and social media channels, questioning the privacy, consent, and psychological effe...
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Episode 91
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33:27
Where Have We Been? New Jobs, New Babies, and a Fresh Start!
After a year away, Aoife and Jenny are back and excited to catch up with you! In this episode, they reflect on the whirlwind of the past year—Aoife adjusting to life with her new baby, and Jenny diving into a new career in early childhood educa...
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Episode 90
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32:47
Theo's birth story: Part 2
HAPPY BIRTHDAY THEO! This week we finally finish Theo's birth story. Aoife shares her real and honest experiences about her time in hospital and remembers the emotions and craziness of the day. Listen to the end for a s...
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Episode 89
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46:00
Embracing Change for Professional Growth
This week we discuss Jenny’s new job! Jenny shares the reasons she made the change and has some advice for anyone who is thinking about taking the leap and moving to a new job. P.S. Listen to the end to hear Aoife sob about Theo tu...
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Episode 88
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29:53
10 Months In
This week on the podcast Aoife recaps the last 10 months of parenthood and talks about all the challenging moments in the early stages of becoming a new mom. We hope you love it!
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Episode 87
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44:53
Positive Tone of Voice in the Early Years Setting
In this episode, we explore the importance of using a positive tone of voice in the early years setting. As caregivers and educators, our tone of voice can have a significant impact on the children in our care. From greeting children in the mor...
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Episode 86
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41:11
Welcome back!
This week on the podcast Aoife and Jenny catch up and chat about some topics they will cover over the next few weeks featuring a very special guest! We hope you love it!
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Episode 85
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25:47
This year on Little Steps, Big Futures: The Podcast
Oh hi again! Lets pretend we didn't just take a hiatus from podcasting for the past 6 months! We are coming back. Life has been busy! But that's all explained in this short update. We are so glad you're here. We missed y...
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Episode 84
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8:18
Theo's birth story: Part 1
This week we chat about Aoife's birthing experience via c-section! We go into a lot of detail so if you are squeamish or have had a poor birthing experience please skip this one and catch us next time! :) We hope you enjoy it! <...
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Episode 83
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35:41
Some exciting news!
This week we ease back into recording and chat about the newest member of the Little Steps Family. Welcome to the world Baby Theo!Support us:https://www.facebook.c...
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Episode 82
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22:25
Dr. Emma O' Brien - Chartered Senior Clinical Psychologist
This week we chat to Dr. Emma O' Brien, a Chartered Senior Clinical Psychologist about responsive parenting. Responsive parenting refers to parents that respond to their child's physical and emotional needs consistently and is sensitive...
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Episode 81
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49:08
Aoife and Jenny - Early Years Pay Update
This week Aoife and Jenny chat about the recent pay recommendations for the Early Years. We chat about the proposed rates and how this may impact the future if the sector. We hope you love it! Support us:
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Episode 80
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19:13
Caroline Michniak - Infant Massage
This week we chat to Caroline Michniak, a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. Caroline tells us about the benefits of a baby massage for both the parents and the baby, and what happens in each class. We even chat abou...
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Episode 79
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39:29
Donna - Dyslexia Matters Ireland
This week we chat with Donna, 1 half of Dyslexia Matters Ireland. Donna talks to us about what dyslexia is, how it can present itself in a child or adult and how we can support a child or adult who might be struggling with this som...
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Episode 78
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46:47