Picture this: 3am. You find your child scrolling on an iPad they found hidden in your room, completely disconnected from reality, like a zombie. This was tech CEO Rob LoCascio's wake-up call after 28 years leading a major AI company. What he discovered when he looked inside the machine his kids were using horrified him, and it's happening in homes everywhere.
This conversation will transform how you view technology and your children. Rob doesn't just identify the problem; he offers real solutions and releases you from the guilt that's keeping you stuck.
You'll walk away with:
Rob shares his personal journey from watching his children become different people on screens to creating alternatives that prioritize creativity, connection, and safety. Whether you're struggling with screen time battles, feeling powerless against devices, or simply want to understand what's really happening to our children, this episode gives you both clarity and choice.
Stop being a victim to technology. It's time to take control.
Listen now and discover one practical way to bring back the bond with your children this week.
What if the key to raising confident sons isn't protecting them from discomfort, but intentionally creating it? DJ Logory, creator of the Be That Guy coaching program, works daily with young men aged 18-26 who struggle with direction, confidence, and connection. In this eye-opening conversation, he reveals what he sees when boys reach adulthood - and what parents can do today to change that trajectory.
DJ challenges the modern parenting instinct to make everything easy. Instead, he advocates for "controlled friction" - strategic discomfort that builds the self-respect and resilience boys desperately need. From waking themselves up to handling rejection, these small challenges compound into unshakeable confidence.
In this episode, you'll discover:
This conversation will shift how you see your son's behaviour and give you practical tools to support him in becoming a man who genuinely loves what he sees in the mirror.
Listen now and discover how small improvements today create the confident, emotionally intelligent young men we need tomorrow.
Guest: DJ Logory, Creator of Be That Guy Coaching ProgramEpisode Length: ~50 minutesTopics: Conscious parenting, raising boys, emotional intelligence, building confidence, discipline, parent-child connection
In this episode, “The Heart of Early Childhood: Why Slowing Down Transforms How Children Learn,” Dr. Gillian Lake and I strip early childhood right back to what truly matters: relationships, presence, and how we see young children.
You’ll hear:
Why the early years are a highly sensitive, powerful window for brain, language, and emotional development
How the revised Aistear framework (2024) actually supports educators and parents, rather than adding more pressure
What “slowing down” really looks like in practice, in classrooms, in routines, and at home
How simple moments like nappy changes, story time, shared play and small conversations build language, self-esteem, and secure attachment
Why play is not a break from learning, but the way children think, explore and understand the world
How to use emergent interests (like dinosaurs or football!) to make learning meaningful and child-led
Practical ways parents and educators can work together so children feel seen, heard, and that they truly belong
By the end of this episode, you’ll feel:
Reassured that you don’t need to do more, you need to slow down and be more present
Inspired to see everyday moments as powerful learning opportunities
Empowered with a clearer understanding of Aistear and how it connects to real life
Grounded in the idea that your time, your attention, and your relationship with the child are the real curriculum
If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing enough?” as a parent or educator, this conversation will help you breathe, reconnect with your instincts, and see how much you’re already building, just by showing up, slowing down, and being with the child in front of you.
In this powerful conversation, Mireia sits down with educator and mentor Matt Beaudreau to explore what it really means to prepare children for an uncertain future. Matt is a lifelong educator with a reputation as a provocative thought leader in educational and personal development practices. He is a two-time featured TEDx speaker and he was named Corporate Trainer of the Year at Stanford University, having spoken to over 250,000 people and educator at Apogee Strong.
Together they unpack why “certainty is an illusion,” why traditional schooling often focuses on the wrong things, and how skills like communication, emotional regulation, adaptability and responsibility will always stand the test of time. You’ll hear Matt’s honest story of leaving the system for the sake of his own children, and the surprising, beautiful things that happen when young people are trusted with real responsibility, meaningful projects and space to grow.
Listeners will learn practical ways to rethink education at home and in the classroom: creating environments rich in choice, invitation and inspiration; setting clear, loving boundaries (especially around screens); and treating play as serious brain development, not a “nice extra.” Matt and Mireia also dive into the emotional heart of parenting and teaching - how our children grow best when we do, why our example matters more than our words, and how to move from co-dependence to true partnership and interdependence with the young people in our care.
This episode gently challenges us to rethink what we’ve always believed about success, school, and “good parenting.” You’ll come away with fresh language, grounded encouragement, and one powerful reminder: meaningful change begins with the adult who’s willing to grow.
From baby’s first peekaboo to a teenager’s first big decision, every stage of childhood shapes the next. In this solo episode, Mireia takes you on a journey through the full arc of development – from babies, toddlers and preschoolers, to school-aged children, teens, young adults and finally parents – to show how play, connection and even our screen habits quietly build the foundation for life.
You’ll hear how:
Babies use sensory exploration, movement and co-regulation to wire their brains for safety, attachment and communication.
Toddlers and preschoolers grow autonomy, emotional regulation and confidence through play, boundaries and choice (not just “because I said so”).
School-age children crave competence, creativity and belonging, and how play, responsibility and boredom (yes, boredom!) support that.
Teenagers use friendships, freedom and experimentation to shape identity – and why our job is to be a safe base, not a fixer.
Screens can either steal key experiences or support development, depending on how and when we use them.
This episode isn’t about perfection or fear-based rules. It’s about understanding what children really need at each stage, how our everyday choices ripple into their future, and how we can use play, presence and conscious screen use to raise more resilient, creative, self-aware humans.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Does what I’m doing now really matter long-term?” — this conversation will give you a grounded, hopeful, and empowering yes.
How do we raise confident, emotionally aware, resilient kids in a world obsessed with appearance, comparison, and pressure? In this episode, we sit down with Mary O'Halloran — childcare worker, nurse, and mom of two — to talk about building self-worth, body confidence, and emotional safety from the inside out.
We explore:
how the way we talk about our own bodies shapes how our children see theirs
why tiny daily rituals at home (not big “talks”) build real confidence and resilience
how to create a safe base at home so our kids always feel they can come back to us, even as teens
what to do instead of “be good and eat all your dinner” and “boys don’t cry”
how to help kids understand food as fuel and strength, not guilt
how to handle body changes, big feelings, bullying, anxiety, and social media comparison without shame
simple connection tools: co-regulation, naming feelings in the body, routine check-ins, child-led play, repair after we shout, and daily “micro moments” of being seen
This conversation is for any parent, educator, or carer who wants to raise children who know their worth, trust themselves, and feel safe being exactly who they are.
Mary’s work, Body Love Heroes, focuses on empowering families with practical tools to build self-belief, resilience, and a healthy relationship with their bodies — starting at home. You can find her and get in touch at @bodyloveheroes on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, or by email at bodyloveheroes@gmail.com
“What If We Knew More? A Conversation About Neurodivergence, Emotional Intelligence & Parenting with Sabrina Dominguez”
What if we could see our children more clearly? What if we could understand their meltdowns, their silence, their energy, or their sensitivity, not as problems to fix, but as messages to decode?
In this deeply personal and powerful episode, I sit down with the incredible Sabrina Dominguez, a neurodivergent educator, coach, and advocate, to explore the real meaning of neuroaffirmative parenting. Through her own story of self-discovery, sparked by her children, Sabrina helps us uncover the layers of what it means to support a child’s development with empathy, understanding, and intention.
We talk about the importance of emotional intelligence, the reality of masking (in kids and adults), the role of sensory processing, and how to truly create environments, at home or in school, that allow children to thrive as their authentic selves.
💬 This isn’t about perfection. It’s about awareness.
🛠️ It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about knowing which questions to ask.
❤️ And it’s not about doing more. It’s about doing things differently, more consciously, more kindly.
You are doing your best with what you know. But… what if you knew more?
Let this episode guide you with practical tools, gentle shifts, and powerful insights to support your child, and yourself, with more confidence and compassion.
Discover how to become the kind of role model your children truly need — one who embraces imperfection, models resilience, and shows responsibility in everyday life. Learn how your self-talk shapes your child’s inner voice, why handling mistakes openly builds trust, and how guiding through example is more effective than trying to control. This episode also explores practical ways to create a safe space for your child to share without judgment, use quality time to strengthen connection, and encourage independence through your own actions.
What if the way we care for children could be radically more inclusive, emotionally connected, and grounded in understanding the whole family?
In this heartening episode of Rediscovering Childhood, I sit down with Carson Wagner, founder of Lifetime of Love Nannies. With a background in behavioral therapy and years of hands-on experience as a nanny, Carson brings a refreshingly human, deeply thoughtful perspective on what families truly need when it comes to childcare.
We explore the power of relationship-based care, how family dynamics shape development, and what it really means to choose the right kind of support for your child.
If you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this conversation offers practical tools and warm encouragement. We’re all doing our best with what we know—but what if knowing a little more helped us choose differently, connect more deeply, and support our children more fully?
Key Takeaways:
In this heartfelt summer episode, Mireia dives deep into a phrase parents know all too well: “Mommy, I’m bored.” But instead of rushing to fix it, what if we leaned into the discomfort?
Mireia explores how boredom isn’t just a nuisance - it’s a mirror. A powerful space for growth, self-awareness, and, most beautifully, creativity. This episode invites you to reframe boredom, not only for your children but for yourself.
Expect a gentle but transformative shift in how you view those “I’m bored” moments. Tune in for stories, insights, and soul-stirring questions that could just change your summer - and your connection with your child.
This isn’t about managing their boredom - it’s about understanding your own triggers and turning them into opportunities.
Key Takeaways
______________________________
Rediscovering Childhood podcast is brought to you by Discovery Playtime
In this insightful episode, Mireia Lopez speaks with Aisleen Harte - teacher, parent, and advocate for child empowerment - about how we can truly listen to our children and help them find and use their voice with confidence. Aisleen shares powerful, real-world strategies to build trust, foster communication, and cultivate emotional safety at home and in school. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to rethink how you support the young voices in your life.
Key Takeaways
You can purchase Aisleen’s book here on buythebook.ie
Feeling stretched too thin as an educator? You’re not alone and you don’t have to stay stuck. In this empowering conversation, former primary school teacher Paudie from the Thriving Teacher Academy shares how he went from overwhelmed and exhausted to energized and in control. You’ll learn how to spot burnout before it takes over, reframe your approach to self-care, and build habits that actually support your wellbeing. If you're ready to stop surviving and start thriving, this episode gives you the practical tools and inspiration to begin.
Key Takeaways
What if the key to a happier childhood—and a more connected family—was simply putting down our devices?
In this eye-opening and deeply relatable episode, host Mireia chats with Caoimhe Carey from Unplug and Connect Ireland about the quiet crisis of screen saturation in our homes—and what we can do to bring back real connection.
Discover:
- The hidden effects of too much screen time on kids’ emotional and social development
- Simple, real-life ways families can create screen-light routines (without guilt!)
- How unplugging can actually strengthen relationships and spark joy
- Why community support is essential in a tech-heavy world
Caoimhe shares moving stories and practical insights from her own life and her work helping families reconnect—with each other and with the world around them.
Whether you’re a parent, carer, educator, or just feeling the digital overwhelm, this episode offers inspiration, hope, and a gentle roadmap back to what really matters.
Tune in now to rediscover the magic of childhood—and the beauty of being fully present.
In this enlightening conversation, Rob Himburg, director of Upland Hills School, shares his journey and insights on education, emphasizing the importance of outdoor learning, play, and recognizing each child's unique genius. He discusses the evolution of play in education, the significance of interpersonal skills, and the need for a curriculum that fosters individuality and creativity. Rob also reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on education, the importance of experiential learning, and how to prepare children for an uncertain future.
TAKEAWAYS
In this episode of Rediscovering Childhood, Mireia Lopez explores the real meaning of creativity — far beyond painting pretty pictures or crafting elaborate projects. She uncovers how creativity is at the heart of problem-solving, imagination, resilience, and independence, shaping not just our children's development but also their future success. In a world that demands flexibility, innovation, and emotional intelligence, creativity is not just a "nice-to-have" — it’s essential. Mireia discusses how everyday experiences — from cooking to communication — rely on creative thinking, and why nurturing this skill from an early age is one of the greatest gifts we can offer our children. Learn practical ways to support your child's creativity through play, open-ended questions, and allowing space for exploration and mistakes. This episode is a reminder that fostering creativity isn’t just about helping children — it’s about empowering them to thrive in a future that will reward adaptability and original thinking.
In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Jeanette shares her journey from a chaotic childhood to becoming a successful business owner and advocate for neurodivergence. She reflects on personal struggles, triumphs, and the importance of creating spaces of belonging in workplaces and schools. Jeanette also discusses her experience with ADHD, parenting, and her mission to support children and adults with neurodivergence.
Topics Discussed:
______________________________
Rediscovering Childhood podcast is brought to you by Discovery Playtime. Dive into a world of creativity and learning with our curated selection of toys, including Play Trays and Connetix magnetic tiles for fun and educational play. Keep children engaged year-round with our seasonal camps, featuring sensory play, arts, crafts, and mindfulness activities. We also offer training programs for parents, teachers, and schools, designed to empower you with the latest in educational trends, child development, and creative play.
In this episode, Mireia delves into the critical role of parenting in an era of digital technology, emphasising the impact of smartphones on childhood development. She discusses the challenges of balancing screen time with traditional forms of learning, play, and social interaction. Through thought-provoking insights, Mireia highlights how early phone exposure can hinder children's natural curiosity, creativity, and emotional growth while stressing the importance of setting boundaries and fostering real-world connections.
______________________________
Rediscovering Childhood podcast is brought to you by Discovery Playtime. Dive into a world of creativity and learning with our curated selection of toys, including Play Trays and Connetix magnetic tiles for fun and educational play. Keep children engaged year-round with our seasonal camps, featuring sensory play, arts, crafts, and mindfulness activities. We also offer training programs for parents, teachers, and schools, designed to empower you with the latest in educational trends, child development, and creative play.
In this episode of Rediscovering Childhood, Mireia speaks with Mikaela, a piano teacher and entrepreneur, about her innovative approach to music education. Michaela shares her journey from discovering her passion for piano to launching an online music school during the pandemic. They explore how creativity and a holistic approach to music teaching can inspire confidence, imagination, and joy in students of all ages. This episode is a celebration of breaking traditional boundaries in music education and fostering a love for learning through music.
https://www.instagram.com/home.tone.piano.academy
Topics Covered:
______________________________
Rediscovering Childhood podcast is brought to you by Discovery Playtime. Dive into a world of creativity and learning with our curated selection of toys, including Play Trays and Connetix magnetic tiles for fun and educational play. Keep children engaged year-round with our seasonal camps, featuring sensory play, arts, crafts, and mindfulness activities. We also offer training programs for parents, teachers, and schools, designed to empower you with the latest in educational trends, child development, and creative play.
In this episode of Rediscovering Childhood, host Mireia chats with Anna and Susanne of Connected Childhood about the art of mindful parenting. They explore how self-regulation, play therapy principles, and small, intentional changes can create lasting connections between parents and children. From navigating big emotions to embracing imperfect parenting, this conversation is filled with practical tips and heartfelt wisdom for families everywhere.
https://connectedchildhood.com/
Topics Discussed:
______________________________
Rediscovering Childhood podcast is brought to you by Discovery Playtime. Dive into a world of creativity and learning with our curated selection of toys, including Play Trays and Connetix magnetic tiles for fun and educational play. Keep children engaged year-round with our seasonal camps, featuring sensory play, arts, crafts, and mindfulness activities. We also offer training programs for parents, teachers, and schools, designed to empower you with the latest in educational trends, child development, and creative play.
In this episode, Mireia sits down with Rhona, founder of The Play Lab, to explore the profound importance of play in early childhood development. From the essence of free play to the misconceptions about structured activities, Rhona shares her expertise and personal journey as a mother and researcher. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how play shapes childhood, fosters resilience, and connects families in meaningful ways.
Key Topics
______________________________
Rediscovering Childhood podcast is brought to you by Discovery Playtime. Dive into a world of creativity and learning with our curated selection of toys, including Play Trays and Connetix magnetic tiles for fun and educational play. Keep children engaged year-round with our seasonal camps, featuring sensory play, arts, crafts, and mindfulness activities. We also offer training programs for parents, teachers, and schools, designed to empower you with the latest in educational trends, child development, and creative play.