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Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. This discussion with parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine delves into the development of the teenage brain, emphasizing its volatility and the importance of understanding this phase. Brain development involves pruning unnecessary neural pathways, with significant changes occurring in the midbrain, which controls emotions and rewards, leading to risky behaviors. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for self-regulation and decision-making, is underdeveloped until the mid-20s for girls and late 20s for boys. Parents are advised to set boundaries, engage in activities, and maintain closeness to keep teenagers safe during the most dangerous years (15-25). Peer influence and the "witching hour" (3-6 PM) are critical factors to consider. Listen to the full interview to learn more.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine discusses on ABC Radio the role of fathers in parenting, highlighting that while mothers generally carry a larger caregiving load, fathers also play crucial roles. According to 2021 ABS stats, women spend nearly twice as much time on domestic duties and childcare, even when both parents work. Positively engaged fathers contribute to higher academic outcomes, stronger social skills, and fewer behavioral problems in children. Early involvement of fathers from birth can significantly improve cognitive and language development and self-esteem, especially in girls. Mothers are encouraged to support fathers' unique parenting styles, which develop resilience and problem-solving skills in children. Listen to the podcast.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Dr. Rosina from Win Win Parenting discussed her recent Leader of the Year Award from the Fathers and Families Coalition of America (FFCA) for her impactful work. She highlighted her keynote on mental health, emphasizing the importance of nurturing family positivity and addressing the rise in mental health issues post-COVID. Dr. Rosina stressed the difference between consequences and punishment, advocating for logical, fair consequences to teach children responsibility. She also underscored the need for open communication and support in addressing adolescent mental health and peer pressure.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Exploring the concept of natural consequences and parenting strategies. Dr. Rosina emphasises the importance of empathy in parenting, noting that empathetic parents raise more empathetic children. They also discuss the impact of a series on parenting, highlighting the guilt parents feel when their children come to the attention of the law. Dr. Rosina advises focusing on learning, connection, and repair rather than blame. The conversation also touches on dealing with bullying and the importance of maintaining trust with teenagers.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Dr. Rosina McAlpine discussing managing sibling rivalry. Dr. McAlpine emphasises the importance of empathy and understanding children's perceptions of fairness. Sibling rivalry is a normal part of development, influenced by birth order, with firstborns often being responsible, middle children diplomatic, and youngest children outgoing. She suggested creating a family mission statement to set boundaries and values. Practical strategies include addressing conflicts as learning opportunities and fostering a sense of teamwork.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Parenting expert Dr. Rosina McAlpine from Win Win parenting discusses sibling rivalry and the introduction of a new sibling. She explains that children use coercion, negotiation, and disengagement to resolve conflicts, with siblings often eliciting harsher treatment due to the long-term nature of the relationship. Parents should emphasize family values and kindness to foster lasting bonds. For older siblings, early preparation and empathy towards the new baby are crucial. Dr. McAlpine suggests maintaining routines and involving other family members to help ease the transition. She also notes that a positive start to sibling relationships can influence their long-term trajectory, though life events may still impact them.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. When Dr Rosina became a mum at 43, she quickly discovered just how overwhelming parenting could be. Like so many new parents, she was left feeling confused, uncertain, and desperate to do the right thing for her child. Instead of accepting the conflicting messages, Dr Rosina turned to her strength — research. What she found was eye-opening. Studies showed that babies fed on demand often demonstrated stronger cognitive outcomes, including higher IQ scores. This discovery sparked her deep dive into child development, parenting practices, and ultimately led to the creation of her book, Inspired Children - How the Leading Minds of Today Raise their kids That book — and the broader Win Win Parenting philosophy — brings together the heart and the science of parenting  to help parents move past the confusion and confidently raise thriving children. The Importance of Evidence-Based Parenting One of Dr. Rosina's primary goals with "Inspired Children" was to bridge the gap between parenting and work-life balance. In today’s fast-paced society, parents often struggle to find reliable information on effective parenting methods. Dr. Rosina emphasises the necessity of evidence-based knowledge to foster better childhood development. Without proper guidance, many parents may feel overwhelmed and disconnected from their children’s needs. This disconnection can stem from a loss of generational knowledge about parenting. As society evolves, traditional parenting wisdom can sometimes be lost. Therefore, understanding child development is crucial. The Loss of Generational Knowledge Dr. Rosina highlighted a concerning trend: the loss of generational knowledge regarding parenting practices. In the past, parenting advice was often passed down through families. Grandparents and elders would share their experiences, helping new parents feel more confident in their roles. However, this tradition has diminished over time. Modern parents often find themselves seeking advice from a wide range of sources, including social media and parenting blogs. While some of this information can be beneficial, it can also be contradictory and confusing. To effectively address modern parenting challenges, it's essential to learn from both contemporary research and time-tested wisdom. This is where Dr. Rosina’s insights come into play, offering a blend of the old and the new. Strategies for Modern Parenting As Dr. Rosina's journey illustrates, several strategies can help parents navigate their parenting paths effectively. Here are some practical approaches: Seek Reliable Sources : It’s vital to identify trustworthy resources for parenting information. Look for evidence-based research and expert opinions rather than relying solely on anecdotal advice. Foster Open Communication : Encourage open dialogue within your family. Talk to your children about their feelings, and be receptive to their perspectives. This promotes emotional intelligence and strengthens family bonds. Prioritize Work-Life Balance : Strive to find a balance between professional responsibilities and family time. Make a conscious effort to create quality moments with your children, as these experiences shape their development. Continue Learning : Parenting is an ongoing learning process. Stay curious and engaged. Attend workshops, read books, and connect with other parents to share experiences and ideas. Building a Supportive Community Creating a supportive parenting community can significantly enhance your experience. Participating in parenting groups or forums allows you to share challenges and successes with others. This support network can be invaluable, offering encouragement and advice from those who understand your journey. While the landscape of parenting may seem daunting, remember that you are not alone. Many parents share similar struggles and triumphs. By fostering connections with supportive individuals, you can build a community that promotes positive parenting experiences. Conclusion Dr. Rosina's journey to Win Win Parenting illustrates the importance of transitioning from confusion to clarity. Adopting evidence-based practices and fostering open communication can alleviate the stresses of modern parenting. As you navigate your parenting journey, remember the power of community and continuous learning. In summary, parenting today presents unique challenges, but with informed strategies and a supportive network, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Don’t hesitate to explore resources like DrRosina.com for more insights and guidance that can help you along the way.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Keeping family life running smoothly is no small feat. Between work deadlines, school lunches, sports practice, and the mental juggling act of remembering everything , working parents are doing it all — often at the expense of their own wellbeing. But as the saying goes during airline safety checks: put your own oxygen mask on first . Dr Rosina McAlpine from Win Win Parenting has a simple but powerful reminder for all mums and dads: you can’t take care of others if you don’t first take care of yourself. Why Self-Care Matters — and Why It’s Not Selfish According to the latest research, working parents are facing: The highest levels of stress The lowest mental health scores And the greatest risk of burnout These challenges aren’t just personal — they’re impacting productivity and wellbeing at home and  at work. That’s why Dr Rosina’s mantra resonates so deeply: “Throw selfish in the rubbish.” When parents prioritise their mental and physical wellbeing, they: Regulate emotions better Handle challenges more calmly Role model healthy habits for their children And show up more engaged at work Busting the Myths of “Balance” One of the biggest traps parents fall into is believing they must split time evenly between work and family every day. But “balance” doesn’t mean 50/50. Dr Rosina suggests thinking about navigation  or integration  instead — because some days will be work-heavy, others more focused on family. Another myth worth ditching? That you can’t be a great parent and  do well at work. You can — especially when you take small, intentional steps to look after yourself and ask for support where needed. Managing the Mental Load: Make the Invisible Visible Much of the stress working parents experience — especially mums — is tied to the mental load . The constant “thinking ahead” and managing of invisible tasks can be overwhelming. Dr Rosina’s advice? Write it all down. Get the never-ending to-do list out of your head and onto paper. Then: Pick the top three tasks for the day. Tick them off (hello, satisfaction!). Delegate what you can — and yes, let your partner choose some from the list too. This practice builds clarity, reduces overwhelm, and makes space for shared responsibility. Micro Self-Care: Small Actions with Big Impact Don’t have an hour for yoga? No problem. Dr Rosina recommends micro self-care practices  — small, simple, and free: Take a few deep breaths between meetings Go for a short walk or run Listen to a favourite song in the car before heading inside Watch a funny video Take a five-minute shower to reset after a tough day Cuddle your dog (yes, that counts!) These little resets throughout the day help release built-up tension, improve your mood, and support emotional regulation. Transition Rituals: From Work Mode to Home Mode One powerful idea is the “driveway pause” — taking a few minutes in the car after work to breathe, decompress, and shift gears before walking through the front door. This mini-transition helps you arrive home calmer, more present, and ready to connect with your family — rather than carrying the stress of the day with you. Why Workplaces Need to Step Up Self-care isn’t just a personal issue — it’s a workplace one, too. If organisations want healthy, engaged, and productive teams, they must support the wellbeing of working parents. After all, these parents are not only contributing to the workforce — they’re raising the next generation. Supporting working parents isn’t just about corporate social responsibility — it’s a smart business strategy . Happy, healthy parents = stronger families and more resilient workplaces. Final Thought: Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury. It’s not selfish. It’s the most generous thing you can do for your family — and your team. So whether it’s three deep breaths, a long shower, or a handwritten to-do list, start small. Because when you’re well, everyone  benefits.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. When was the last time you really checked in with your child or grandchild? Not just a quick “How was your day?”—but a real, meaningful chat about how they’re actually  feeling? With the rise in mental health concerns among young people, taking time to connect deeply with the kids in our lives is more important than ever. This week, Dr Rosina McAlpine, explores how parents and carers can support children through life’s ups and downs—and why positivity in the home matters more than you think. The Alarming Rise in Mental Health Challenges Among Kids Rosina shared a sobering reality: "One in seven children experiences mental health challenges—just behind one in five adults." For working parents, this can create a double load. Not only are they juggling work and family responsibilities, but they’re also navigating their children’s emotional wellbeing—often without the support they need themselves. When a child is struggling, it inevitably affects the entire family’s mental health. How Parents Can Support Kids When They’re Feeling Down The first step? Check in. But not in a rushed, surface-level way. Create a safe, judgment-free space where your child feels genuinely heard. Rosina emphasised: “Don’t be too quick to dismiss what they’re feeling. If a child is sad or anxious, validate that. Don’t jump straight to fixing—just listen.” Many kids won’t come out and say, “I need to talk.”  Instead, they’ll act out or get “annoying” as a way of seeking attention. It’s their way of waving a little emotional flag. Pro tip: When your child is acting up, try pausing for just two minutes. Stop what you're doing. Give them your full attention. Often, that's all they need to open up and move on with their day. Why Positivity Matters in Family Life So what exactly is  positivity? According to Dr Rosina, it’s not about pretending everything is perfect or ignoring real emotions. Rather: “Positivity is a mindset—an openness to seeing the good around you, appreciating small joys, and choosing to respond with hope and kindness.” Positivity matters Practising positivity has been linked to: Greater resilience after failure Stronger relationships Higher levels of happiness and wellbeing And yes— positivity is a choice , and it can be learned at any age. “Our brains are neuroplastic,” Rosina explained. “We can train ourselves to be more positive, just like we learn maths or a new language.” Strategies for Cultivating Positivity at Home Start a Gratitude Practice Referencing a powerful study called "Count Your Blessings vs Burdens" , Rosina shared that people who wrote daily gratitude journals reported: Better emotional wellbeing Improved physical health Stronger social bonds Try this:  At dinner, ask everyone to share three highlights  of their day—only one can be about food! Reframe Negative Moments When challenges arise, practise shifting your focus. Instead of reacting with frustration, pause and ask: “What can I learn from this?”  or “What am I grateful for right now?” Express Appreciation Out Loud Rosina’s favourite exercise? Write a letter to someone you’re grateful for. Revise it until it truly captures your feelings—then read it to them in person.Warning: tears (and hugs) may follow! Final Thought: Let Positivity Be Contagious Whether it’s putting on music to lift the morning mood or sharing a giggle with your child, positivity is  contagious—and it starts with you. So, here’s your challenge for today: Pause. Check in. Listen without fixing. Share a moment of gratitude. What are you grateful for today?

Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Illawarra In a recent ABC Illawarra radio interview, Parenting Expert Dr Rosina McAlpine shared a simple but powerful idea that many families have never considered: creating a family mission statement. Listen to the full interview We are familiar with mission statements in workplaces and organisations. They define shared values, clarify direction and act as a compass for decision making. Yet in family life, where our most important relationships exist, we rarely take the time to define what truly matters to us. A family mission statement is a short collection of words or sentences that capture your shared values and the kind of family you want to be. It might include principles such as kindness, respect, curiosity, gratitude or faith. The key is that it is created together. Even young children can contribute simple ideas like love or fun, while teenagers can offer meaningful input about responsibility, flexibility and mutual respect. Dr Rosina explained that the process is just as important as the outcome. Sitting down together, perhaps over a favourite meal, and discussing questions like “What do we love doing together?” or “How do we want to treat one another?” strengthens connection and gives every family member a voice To bring the statement to life, some families create a visual crest with symbols representing their values. Others display their words on the fridge or frame them on the wall. The important step is to use it. When conflict arises, parents can gently refer back to the shared values and ask, “Is this how we agreed to treat each other?” A family mission statement is not about rules or daily routines. It is about identity. It becomes a guiding star that helps families navigate busy seasons, changing dynamics and growing independence, while keeping their core values front and centre.

Most workplace wellbeing programs are built with good intentions. Gym discounts, mindfulness apps, and the occasional stress webinar all signal that wellbeing matters. But for working parents, especially those juggling young children or children with mental health challenges, these supports often miss the mark. In this conversation, Parenting Expert Dr Rosina McAlpine explores why working parents are experiencing some of the highest levels of burnout and emotional strain in today’s workforce, and what organisations need to understand if they want to make a real difference. Research consistently shows that working parents report lower mental health scores than other employee groups. One of the biggest contributors is the ongoing stress related to children’s wellbeing, behaviour, and mental health. Deloitte has identified child mental health as one of the most significant pressures facing working parents, yet this reality is rarely reflected in workplace wellbeing strategies. A key theme in this discussion is the difference between equality and equity. Treating everyone the same may feel fair, but it does not account for the different pressures people carry at different life stages. Supporting parents is not about special treatment. It is about recognising that employees do not leave their family responsibilities at the door when they come to work. The conversation also addresses sensitive but important issues, including the mental load carried by mothers and fathers, unspoken assumptions about parenting roles, and the concern some organisations have about balancing support for parents and non parents. This discussion is grounded in lived experience. During the recording, the host’s own child was home due to a teacher strike, a real time reminder that work and family life constantly intersect. If you are a people leader, HR professional, or parent wanting a deeper understanding of how work and family pressures interact, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and practical guidance.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. Do your little ones sometimes get overwhelmed by big emotions? You’re not alone. Many parents wonder how to best support their children when they’re frustrated, sad, angry, or even jealous. That’s why I recently joined ABC Illawarra  to talk about one of the most powerful skills we can nurture in children: emotional intelligence . Liston to the Interview Why Emotional Intelligence Matters Emotional intelligence is about more than just “managing emotions.” It’s the ability to: Recognise emotions in ourselves. Regulate and manage them in healthy ways. Understand how others are feeling. Build stronger, more caring relationships. When kids develop these skills, they do better at school, enjoy stronger friendships, and grow into more resilient adults. Practical Tips You’ll Hear in the Audio In this conversation, I share simple strategies parents can use right away with preschool and primary school-aged children, including: Expanding your child’s emotional vocabulary (“Is this frustration or disappointment?”). Calming activities like the flower and candle  breathing game or balloon breathing . How to handle sibling rivalry as a learning opportunity for empathy. Listen to the Full Conversation This blog only scratches the surface. To dive deeper into these practical tips - and to hear how parents can turn emotional challenges into growth opportunities - tune in to my chat on ABC Illawarra .