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Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy and togetherness, yet for many families it can also bring tension, overwhelm and anxiety. In this insightful interview, parenting and family wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine unpacks why extended family gatherings can be emotionally challenging for both adults and children. From old family triggers and unhelpful traditions to children feeling pressured by hugs, noise and unfamiliar routines, Dr McAlpine explains what is really going on beneath the surface and why preparation matters more than perfection. She shares practical ways parents can regulate their own emotions, set realistic expectations and model calm behaviour so children feel safer and more secure. The conversation also explores clear, compassionate strategies to help children navigate gift giving, physical boundaries and uncomfortable conversations at the table. Dr McAlpine offers guidance on setting expectations with teenagers, gently redirecting sensitive topics and protecting children’s sense of body autonomy, all while keeping connection and kindness at the centre of the holidays. With a strong focus on empathy, preparation and role modelling, this interview provides grounded advice that can transform family gatherings from something to endure into an experience that feels calmer and more respectful for everyone.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Australia is about to introduce one of the most significant changes to child online safety in years. In just a couple of days, young people under sixteen will no longer be permitted to have social media accounts. The federal government calls it a world first move aimed at reducing exposure to harmful content, cyber bullying and grooming. Many parents welcome the decision, yet it also raises real questions for families. How will the ban work in practice. What does it mean for children who rely on digital spaces to connect. How can parents navigate the shift without conflict at home. Dr Rosina McAlpine joined the program to unpack these issues with clarity and warmth, offering research grounded insight and practical advice. In the conversation, Dr McAlpine explains why the evidence supports stronger protections for young people and why social media poses real risks to the developing brain. She walks listeners through the challenges of age verification, the emotional impact on teens who feel something has been taken away, and the essential role parents still play in keeping their children safe online. Just as importantly, she highlights how families can foster genuine connection through supervised online spaces, in person activities and open communication that helps young people feel heard rather than punished. This episode is an invaluable guide for parents, carers and educators who want to support young people through a rapidly changing digital landscape. It balances evidence with compassion and offers practical steps you can use right now. If you want a clearer understanding of what the ban means and how to make this transition easier for your family, this is a conversation well worth listening to.

Understanding the Challenges of Parenting Teens In this interview, I share insights into why sibling rivalry and friendship drama are common challenges for teens. Parents often wonder how to help without making things worse. Understanding when to step in and when to step back is crucial. I explain the three main ways young people resolve conflict: coercion, negotiation, and disengagement. These methods can differ significantly between home and social settings. The Impact of Birth Order on Relationships Birth order can shape relationships in profound ways. The dynamics between siblings often depend on who is the oldest, middle, or youngest. Each position comes with its own set of expectations and behaviors. For instance, the oldest sibling may feel pressure to lead, while the youngest might seek attention. Recognizing these patterns can help parents understand their children's interactions better. Recognizing Bullying vs. Rivalry It's essential to watch for signs when rivalry turns into bullying. While some conflict is normal, parents should be alert to behaviors that may indicate a more serious issue. Bullying can have lasting effects on a child's emotional well-being. Parents can help by fostering open communication and encouraging empathy among siblings. Values-Based Strategies for Building Empathy Parents can use values-based strategies to build empathy and respect within the family. Teaching children the importance of understanding others' feelings can lead to healthier relationships. Encouraging discussions about values can help teens navigate their social circles more effectively. If you’ve ever felt drained by constant bickering or unsure how to guide your teen through social tension, you’ll find practical tools and reassurance in this conversation. Practical Tools for Parents Encourage Open Dialogue : Create an environment where your teens feel comfortable expressing their feelings. This can help them articulate their emotions and resolve conflicts more effectively. Model Conflict Resolution : Demonstrate healthy conflict resolution strategies in your own interactions. Show your teens how to negotiate and compromise. Set Clear Boundaries : Establish rules for acceptable behavior among siblings. This can help prevent conflicts from escalating. Promote Teamwork : Encourage siblings to work together on projects or activities. This can strengthen their bond and reduce rivalry. Teach Empathy : Use real-life situations to discuss feelings and perspectives. This can help your teens develop a deeper understanding of others. Conclusion: Navigating the Journey of Parenting Parenting teens can be challenging, especially when it comes to sibling rivalry and peer drama. However, with the right tools and strategies, parents can help their children navigate these turbulent waters. By fostering open communication, modeling positive behavior, and encouraging empathy, parents can create a supportive environment that promotes healthy relationships. For more insights, listen to the full interview with Dr. Rosina McAlpine on Helping Your Teen Navigate Sibling Rivalry and Peer Drama .

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This Online Parenting Program provides parents with an effective step-by-step practical approach to managing day-to-day parenting challenges without requiring discipline, punishment and rewards. Online parenting-program Help your child to succeed... This Online Parenting Program provides parents with an effective step-by-step practical approach to managing day-to-day parenting challenges without requiring discipline, punishment and rewards. Teaching children life skills to become successful, cooperative and caring members of your family and society. Help you and your child navigate the many challenges faced by today's children. How well do you handle your children’s Would you like to learn the skills to manage these situations as well as preparing your child for the many challenges life will throw at them? 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Rosina as a presenter touched everyone in the room, she is so passionate in her delivery and we all felt it, at one point Rosina even choked up talking about her own son and it was beautiful to see. Thank you Rosina for such an inspiring, practical and interesting session, your ideas and ways of parenting will resonate with me always." - GABRIELA WILSON, CPA AUSTRALIA " 01 Introduction Completing the activities in Step 1: Introduction, provides you with an overview and roadmap of the entire program; a list of aims and outcomes; strategies for how to get the most out of the program and sets out the terms and conditions for Program Welcome - Video Overview of the program - Reading Roadmap of the Program - Reading Getting the most out of the program - Video Getting the most out of the program - Reading Maximise your learning when watching videos - Workbook Terms and Conditions - Reading 04 Fundamentals - Taking Care of Yourself and Overview of the Life Skills Steps Completing Step 4: Fundamentals, highlights the importance of taking care of yourself so you can be your Personal Best as a parent. It also overviews the 7 Life Skill Steps that enable you to empower your children with the knowledge, beliefs and skills to succeed in life. Personal Best Parenting Part II - Video Don't fall into the parenting trap - Audio Overview of Life Skills Education. Steps 5-11 - Video Overview of Life Skills Education. Steps 5-11 - Reading Taking care of yourself - Audio Meditation 07 Communication and Relationships Life Skills Activities Completing Step 7: Communication and Relationships, empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to support their children to develop the ability to communicate effectively and to build strong connections with others. The life skills activities can be completed in 15 mins. Communication and Relationships - Video Emotional Intelligence - Reading Communicating with Teens - Reading Life Skills Education: Communication and Relationships - Workbook Life Skills home activity: Communication and Relationships - eBook Communication and Relationships - Audio Meditation 10 Relaxation and Play Life Skills Activities Completing Step 10: Relaxation and Play, empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to support their children to understand the importance of relaxing and having fun for reducing stress and maintaining wellbeing. The life skills activities can be completed in 15 mins. Relaxation and Play - Video Life Skills Education: Relaxation and Play - Workbook Life Skills home activity: Relaxation and Play - eBook Relaxation and Play - Audio Meditation 02 Fundamentals - Your Vision for Parenthood and Personal Best Parenting Completing the activities in Step 2: Fundamentals, inspires you to create your vision for parenthood by becoming clear about the kind of parent you want to be and identifying the dreams you have for your children. Your vision is your impetus to be your personal best as a parent. Personal Best Parenting Part I - Video Vision for Parenthood - Video Vision for Parenthood - Workbook Harms of Harsh Parenting - Video Parenting 101 - Reading Vision for Parenthood - Audio Meditation 05 Personal Power Life Skills Activities Completing Step 5: Personal Power empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to support their children to develop good self esteem, learn to manage their emotions and be resilient and bounce back after life's challenges. The life skills activities can be completed in 15 mins. Personal Power: Self esteem and Resilience - Video Self-esteem vs Self-confidence - Video Self Esteem v Self Confidence - Reading Life Skill Education: Personal Power - Workbook Life skills home activity: Personal Power - eBook Personal Power - Audio Meditation 08 Education, Careers and Money Life Skills Activities Completing Step 8: Education, Careers and Money empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to support their children to develop a love of learning, think about possible careers and how to earn, save and manage money. The life skills activities can be completed in 15 mins. 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Instead of reacting to challenges using discipline, punishment and rewards the S.E.E approach allows you to respond by Stopping, Empathising and Educating your child. S.E.E Parenting Part I - Video S.E.E Parenting Part II - Video S.E.E Parenting Part III - Video S.E.E Parenting in Action - Reading S.E.E Parenting in Action - Audio Meditation 06 Health and Wellbeing Life Skills Activities Completing Step 6: Health and Wellbeing, empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to support their children to develop a healthy lifestyle in terms of eating wholefoods, exercising, and personal and home cleanliness. The life skills activities can be completed in 15 mins. Health and Wellbeing - Video A Life Skill approach to parenting - Video Inspiring kids to eat vegetables - Reading Life Skill Education: Health and Wellbeing - Workbook Life Skills home activity: Health and Wellbeing - eBook Health and Wellbeing - Audio Meditation 09 Environment and Social Understanding Life Skills Activities Completing Step 9: Environment and Social Understanding empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to support their children to minimise their environmental footprint and be respectful and inclusive of all people. The life skills activities can be completed in 15 mins. Environment and Social Understanding - Video Life Skills Education: Environment and Social Understanding - Workbook Life Skills home activity: Environment and Social Understanding - eBook Environment and Social Understanding - Audio Meditation 12 Resources Interviews with Experts - Video and Audio Parenting Book- Reading Dr Rosina - Social Media Get the help you need to manage the challenges along your parenting journey.. This course provides a step-by-step practical approach supporting parents to manage day-to-day parenting without the need for discipline and punishment or bribery and rewards. Start Now - A$197 for 12months access