Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast

Aoife Murphy & Jenny McCarthy
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Education

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!

  1. Mar 11

    Tips, Laughs, and Preschool Reports

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

    38 min

  2. Feb 10

    When Life Presses Pause

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

    37 min

  3. 12/03/2025

    'Pause Before You Post'

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

    28 min

  4. 10/22/2025

    When Drop-Offs Get Tough

    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

    30 min

  5. 10/08/2025

    Finding Balance

    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

    32 min

  6. 09/17/2025

    The Power of Routines

    In this week’s episode, Aoife and Jenny talk about the importance of keeping a routine, both at home and in the classroom. From the comfort of daily rhythms to the way routines help children feel secure, they share honest reflections (and a bit of real-life rambling) on what routines look like in practice.  Whether you’re a parent or an educator, you’ll find encouragement and practical takeaways for building rhythms that work for your family or classroom. Support us: https://www.instagram.com/little_steps_big_futures/ https://www.facebook.com/littlestepsbigfutures

    32 min

  7. 09/03/2025

    The First Day: Starting Preschool Together

    In this episode, Aoife and Jenny dive into the big transition of starting preschool — what it feels like for children taking those first steps and for parents learning to let go a little. They share the ups and downs of this milestone, from first-day jitters to moments of pride, and offer ideas on how families can make the process smoother for everyone.  Along the way, they also explore the thoughtful choices parents face when it comes to sharing these special moments online, and how to celebrate memories while still protecting children’s privacy. Listen: Forever Online: A Child's Digital Footprint Support us: https://www.instagram.com/little_steps_big_futures/ https://www.facebook.com/littlestepsbigfutures

    34 min

  8. 08/20/2025

    Big Changes to Aistear: What Educators Need to Know

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

    56 min
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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Aoife Murphy & Jenny McCarthy
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    115
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast
  • Show Website
    Little Steps, Big Futures:The Podcast