After a summer break, the HSE Talking Health & Wellbeing Podcast is back with a new season of conversations designed to support people in making positive choices for their health and wellbeing. The first episode of the new season focuses on a milestone that many families across Ireland are preparing for right now: starting primary school. Hosted by Fergal Fox, this episode features Dr Abigail Collins, who shares practical advice and reassurance for parents and guardians as children prepare to take this important step. The discussion explores both the emotional and practical aspects of the transition, helping families feel more confident and supported during what can be an exciting, but sometimes challenging time.
Supporting Children Through Change
Starting school is a significant milestone for children and families alike. While many children eagerly anticipate meeting new friends and starting new routines, it is also common for both children and parents to experience feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.
In the podcast, Dr Collins discusses some of the most common concerns families face, including separation anxiety, worries about fitting in, and adjusting to a new environment. She offers practical strategies to help children build confidence and develop a positive attitude towards starting school.
The conversation also reminds parents that there is no single “right way” for children to respond to this transition. Every child is different, and it is important to allow them time and space to adjust at their own pace.
Practical Back-to-School Advice
Alongside emotional preparation, the episode covers a range of practical topics that can help make the first few weeks run more smoothly. Dr Collins shares tips on:
- Establishing healthy morning and bedtime routines,
- Preparing school bags, uniforms and lunchboxes,
- Encouraging children’s independence,
- Building positive habits around attendance and punctuality,
- Helping children become familiar with their new school environment.
The episode also addresses important health considerations, including childhood vaccinations, hand hygiene, and guidance on when children should stay at home when they are unwell.
A Reminder for Parents to Be Kind to Themselves
A key message throughout the episode highlights that starting school is not just a transition for children, but also for parents and caregivers.
Dr Collins encourages parents to lean on family, friends and community supports where possible and reminds them that it is normal to feel emotional about this milestone. Being kind to yourself and recognising that adjustment takes time can make the experience easier for the whole family.
A New Look for the Podcast
This episode also marks an exciting development for the HSE Talking Health & Wellbeing Podcast.
For the first time, the episode has been video recorded and is available to watch as well as listen to. A number of future episodes will also be available in video format, creating new opportunities for people to engage with health and wellbeing information in ways that suit them best.
Looking Ahead
The new season will continue to bring listeners expert advice, lived experience and practical information on a wide range of health and wellbeing topics. Upcoming episodes will include discussions on Healthy Lunchboxes, an interview with the HSE CEO Anne O’Connor where she talks about the importance of health and wellbeing to the health service and our usual range of topics such as mental health and others.
Listen or Watch
The latest episode of the HSE Talking Health & Wellbeing Podcast is available now wherever you get your podcasts and on the HSE Health and Wellbeing YouTube channel.