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Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast

Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast

By: Aoife Murphy & Jenny McCarthy
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About this listen

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!

© 2025 Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast
Parenting & Families Relationships
Episodes
  • 'Pause Before You Post'
    Dec 3 2025

    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!

    Support us:
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    https://www.facebook.com/littlestepsbigfutures

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    28 mins
  • When Drop-Offs Get Tough
    Oct 22 2025

    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.

    Support us:
    https://www.instagram.com/little_steps_big_futures/
    https://www.facebook.com/littlestepsbigfutures

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    30 mins
  • Finding Balance
    Oct 8 2025

    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.

    Support us:
    https://www.instagram.com/little_steps_big_futures/
    https://www.facebook.com/littlestepsbigfutures

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    32 mins
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