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Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Illawarra Adolescence can feel like an emotional roller coaster—for both teenagers and their parents. From sudden mood swings to risk-taking behaviour and the powerful influence of peers, navigating this stage of life often leaves families wondering how best to cope. To shed light on this crucial period, parenting and family wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine  joined ABC Illawarra to unpack what’s really happening in the teenage brain—and how parents can guide their teens with empathy, patience, and practical strategies. Want to hear the full conversation? Dr Rosina shares more insights into teen emotions, brain development, peer influence, communication strategies, and family wellbeing  in her interview on ABC Illawarra. Listen to the Interview Why Teen Emotions Feel So Intense Hormonal changes, brain development, peer influence, and academic pressures all collide during adolescence. The result? Big emotions without the fully developed skills to manage them. Dr Rosina explains how the teenage brain is still wiring up, with the prefrontal cortex (responsible for logic and reasoning) developing last—making it harder for teens to regulate emotions or predict outcomes. Communicating When Teens Shut Down Every parent knows the “cave” moment—when their teen retreats and doesn’t want to talk. Dr Rosina shares practical communication strategies: Bond over their interests  (even if that means learning fantasy football). Listen more than lecture , holding back judgement. Choose the right setting , like chatting side-by-side while driving or walking, instead of eye-to-eye confrontations. Building Coping Strategies and Resilience Helping teens learn healthy coping strategies  is key. Dr Rosina highlights the power of: Breathing exercises, mindfulness, and journaling Time in nature, exercise, and even safe risk-taking activities like surfing or climbing Encouraging independence by asking, “What would you do about that?”  rather than stepping in with solutions The Role of Peers and Values Peer relationships shape much of a teen’s world. As parents, staying connected means knowing who your child spends time with and creating an open home environment. Dr Rosina emphasises the importance of guiding teens in empathy, values, and decision-making —so they can recognise the difference between positive influence and negative pressure. When to Seek Professional Help Mood swings are part of adolescence, but parents should trust their instincts if something feels wrong. Dr Rosina encourages families to seek professional help  if they notice red flags such as self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or substance abuse—or even just a gut feeling that their teen is struggling. Early support can make all the difference.

Navigating the Challenges of Parenting in a Media-Driven World In today’s media-driven world, children and teens are bombarded with constant messages about who they should be, what they should look like, and how success is defined. This pressure can deeply affect their self-esteem and shape unrealistic ideas about themselves. To help parents navigate these challenges, parenting and family wellbeing expert Dr. Rosina McAlpine from Win Win Parenting joined the studio to share practical strategies for raising confident and resilient young people. Listen to the Full Interview Understanding Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence During the conversation, Dr. Rosina explains the important difference between self-esteem and self-confidence. Self-esteem is about who you are, while self-confidence is about what you can do. She shares stories, including her own childhood experience of being “over-confident,” to highlight why it’s essential for children to accurately evaluate their abilities while still developing a strong sense of self-worth. The Impact of Social Media The discussion also explores how social media and constant comparison with others can negatively impact young people’s self-image and mental health. Children today are exposed to curated images and lifestyles that can create unrealistic expectations. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. Practical Strategies for Parents Most importantly, the audio dives into what parents can do at home to make a real difference. Here are some practical strategies shared by Dr. Rosina: Encourage Effort Over Outcomes : Focus on the effort your child puts in rather than just the results. This helps them appreciate their hard work and fosters a growth mindset. Teach Resilience : Help children learn how to handle mistakes. Encourage them to view failures as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. Foster Open Communication : Create an environment where children feel safe to express their feelings and thoughts. This can help them develop a stronger sense of self. Limit Social Media Exposure : Encourage breaks from social media. Discuss the difference between real life and the curated images they see online. Model Healthy Self-Esteem : Show your children how to value themselves by demonstrating self-compassion and self-acceptance. Nurturing Confidence and Self-Esteem Tune in to the full conversation to discover how you can nurture your child’s confidence and self-esteem in a world full of pressure and comparison. The insights shared by Dr. Rosina are invaluable for parents looking to support their children through the complexities of growing up in today’s society. By implementing these strategies, you can help your child build a solid foundation of self-worth and resilience. Remember, the journey of parenting is not just about guiding your children but also about growing alongside them. For more insights, listen to the full interview with Dr. Rosina here .

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Becoming a mum for the first time is one of life’s most profound and transformative experiences. The joy of welcoming a new baby is often matched with exhaustion, uncertainty, and the pressure to “get everything right.” Listen to the Full Interview In this heartfelt conversation, parenting, work and family wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine  from Win Win Parenting  shares: Why the transition into motherhood feels so overwhelming The biggest challenges new mums face (like sleep deprivation and loss of personal time) How support from partners, family, and community makes all the difference Why evidence-based parenting advice matters more than ever The importance of blending heart and science  in parenting Whether you’re a new parent, expecting, or supporting someone through early parenthood, this replay is filled with reassurance, practical wisdom, and hope. Listen to the replay now  and discover how to navigate the highs and lows of new motherhood with more confidence, balance, and compassion.

Domestic and family violence remains one of the most serious issues facing Australian communities. Alarming new figures show an increase in reported assaults. While intervention and support services are vital, the most powerful change begins much earlier — in childhood. Parenting, work, and family wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine believes that prevention starts in the home. The Importance of Early Education “The values, attitudes, and beliefs we teach our children in their early years about respect, empathy, and equality form the foundation for who they become,” she explains. “When we consistently model kindness and compassion, we set our children up to build healthy, respectful relationships for life.” Listen to the Full Interview Everyday Conversations Matter As part of the Australian Government’s Stop It at the Start campaign, Dr Rosina has shared her insights on how simple, everyday conversations can prevent the cycle of violence before it begins. She encourages parents and carers to reflect on the subtle messages they may unintentionally send. For example, dismissing behaviour with phrases like “boys will be boys” or “he did it because he likes you” can be harmful. These seemingly harmless comments can normalise disrespect and confusion around relationships. By becoming aware of these patterns, parents can pause, repair, and use these moments to teach empathy and accountability instead. The Role of Community Dr Rosina also reminds us that the responsibility for change extends beyond the home. Schools, sporting clubs, and workplaces play an essential role in reinforcing respectful behaviour and challenging harmful attitudes. Many forward-thinking organisations are already integrating anti-bullying and respectful relationship programs. These initiatives provide adults with the same skills they can use at home. “When parents, teachers, and community leaders all share the same message of respect and equality,” says Dr Rosina, “children grow up hearing one powerful and consistent voice against violence.” Building a Culture of Respect Ultimately, prevention starts with awareness, open conversation, and positive role modelling. Dr Rosina’s heartfelt message is clear: “We can’t expect respect to grow by chance — it starts with us, in the way we live, love, and talk every day.” Conclusion To hear more of Dr Rosina McAlpine’s practical advice on how families and communities can stop violence before it starts, listen to her full ABC interview podcast. In summary, fostering a culture of respect begins at home and extends into the community. By engaging in open conversations and modelling positive behaviours, we can create a safer environment for future generations. Additional Resources For more information on preventing domestic violence and promoting respectful relationships, consider exploring local resources and support services available in your area. Engaging with these resources can further enhance your understanding and ability to contribute positively to your community. By taking these steps, we can all play a part in building a future where respect and equality are the norms, not the exceptions.

Parenting expert Dr ROsina McAlpine interviewed by Amy Duggan from ABC Radio. Bringing home your second child is one of life’s most joyful - and unexpectedly emotional - transitions. Many parents find it even harder than the first time around, juggling sleepless nights, physical recovery, and the challenge of dividing attention between two little ones. As parenting, work and family wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine  explains, this can stir guilt, overwhelm and self-doubt—but it’s also a powerful opportunity to double the love, not divide it. Listen to the Full Interview In this warm and practical conversation with ABC Illawarra’s Amy Duggan , Dr Rosina shares simple ways for parents to navigate this delicate stage - from creating shared routines and staying connected as a couple, to managing older-child jealousy and clinginess with empathy rather than shame. She highlights how self-compassion and teamwork can transform chaos into connection, helping every family member feel seen and supported. Whether you’re expecting your second child or right in the thick of those sleepless nights, this episode is filled with heart, humour and hope. Listen now to hear Dr Rosina’s full interview on ABC Illawarra

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine from Win Win Parenting joins the conversation to explore one of the most timeless questions in family life—how do we best raise boys and girls? While love, connection, and emotional safety are the foundation for every child, Rosina explains that boys and girls can develop skills at different rates and face unique social pressures. The interview delves into the importance of early attachment, teaching life skills, and nurturing emotional literacy from the very beginning, helping parents move beyond “good” and “bad” behaviour to see what life skill might be missing. Listen to the Full Interview Rosina’s insights shed light on why emotional literacy is equally vital for boys and girls. She shares practical ways to help children recognise and name their emotions, linking feelings to language and developing empathy. When parents model responsiveness and understanding, children learn that emotions are not something to suppress but to navigate. For boys, this means letting go of “toughen up” messages, while for girls, it means resisting comparison and perfectionism. Rosina’s compassionate examples show how these conversations can happen naturally in everyday moments—from bedtime stories to big feelings after school. This powerful discussion moves beyond stereotypes to highlight the influence of temperament, peer pressure, and social expectations on children’s growth. Rosina reminds parents that while gender can shape experience, each child is unique, with their own temperament, needs, and strengths. Her advice is simple yet profound: create safe, loving, and open spaces where boys and girls alike can express who they truly are. Listen to the full interview to discover practical, heart-centred strategies for helping every child thrive—through love, laughter, and connection.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio It is easy to see why comedian Jason Veach’s viral video on sibling combinations struck a chord with so many parents. His take on how different gender pairings shape family life taps into the chaos, tenderness and surprises that every household knows well. Two boys as “double chaos”, two girls as “quiet but emotionally dangerous”, or the older sister and younger brother as the “chocolate and peanut butter” match. It is funny because it reflects snippets of real family life. But how much of it is true, and how much is simply sharp comedy? Listen to the Full Interview In a lively interview on ABC Radio, parenting and family wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine from Win Win Parenting helps us look beyond the punchlines. Drawing on developmental psychology, sibling research and family systems theory, Dr McAlpine explains that while there are statistical trends in how different sibling pairs interact, there are no guarantees. Mixed gender pairs can show more conflict early on due to developmental differences, same gender pairs may appear more harmonious, and older brother or younger sister combinations sometimes clash. Yet many families defy these patterns completely. The real game changers are temperament, personality and the culture that parents create at home. Listen to the full interview.

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. Listen to the Full Interview 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.

The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy and togetherness. However, 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. Understanding Family Dynamics From old family triggers to unhelpful traditions, many factors contribute to the stress of family gatherings. Children often feel 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. Listen to the Full Interview The Importance of Preparation Preparation is key to navigating the complexities of family gatherings. Dr. McAlpine shares practical ways parents can regulate their own emotions. By setting realistic expectations, parents can model calm behavior, helping children feel safer and more secure. Strategies for Emotional Regulation 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 can protect children’s sense of body autonomy while keeping connection and kindness at the center of the holidays. Empathy and Connection With a strong focus on empathy, preparation, and role modeling, this interview provides grounded advice. It can transform family gatherings from something to endure into an experience that feels calmer and more respectful for everyone. Dr. McAlpine emphasizes that the holiday season is not just about the festivities. It's about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. Navigating Difficult Conversations Difficult conversations can arise during family gatherings. Dr. McAlpine suggests approaching these discussions with empathy and openness. By fostering an atmosphere of respect, families can navigate sensitive topics without escalating tensions. The Role of Traditions Traditions can be both comforting and challenging. Dr. McAlpine encourages families to evaluate their traditions. Are they serving the family's emotional needs? If not, it may be time to adapt or create new ones that foster connection rather than stress. Supporting Children’s Emotional Needs Children's emotional needs are paramount during the holiday season. Dr. McAlpine highlights the importance of checking in with children. Understanding their feelings can help parents provide the support they need. Creating a Safe Space Creating a safe space for children is essential. Dr. McAlpine advises parents to establish boundaries that protect their children's emotional well-being. This includes discussing what is acceptable behavior and what is not, ensuring children feel secure. Encouraging Open Communication Open communication is vital in any family dynamic. Dr. McAlpine suggests regular family meetings to discuss feelings and expectations. This practice can help everyone feel heard and valued. The Power of Role Modeling Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children's emotional responses. By modeling calm behavior and emotional regulation, parents can teach their children how to handle stress effectively. The Importance of Self-Care Self-care is often overlooked during the busy holiday season. Parents should prioritize their own mental health. Taking time for oneself can lead to better emotional regulation and a more positive family atmosphere. Building Resilience in Children Resilience is an essential skill for children. Dr. McAlpine discusses ways to foster resilience through challenges. Encouraging children to face difficulties can help them develop coping strategies for the future. Creating Lasting Memories While the holiday season can be stressful, it also offers opportunities for creating lasting memories. Dr. McAlpine encourages families to focus on the moments that matter. Engaging in activities together can strengthen bonds and create joy. Conclusion In conclusion, the holiday season can be a time of joy, but it also requires preparation and understanding. Dr. Rosina McAlpine's insights provide valuable guidance for families navigating the complexities of gatherings. By focusing on empathy, preparation, and communication, families can create a more harmonious holiday experience.

As families settle back into routines, many parents are quietly carrying a heavy mental load. Work demands, rising living costs, childcare logistics, school schedules, and the constant pressure to be everything to everyone can leave even the most capable parents feeling stretched. Recent conversations with parents reveal a familiar theme, worry about how to juggle it all without burning out. Listen to the full interview In this timely podcast episode, Parenting Expert Dr Rosina McAlpine explores why the start of a new year can feel both hopeful and overwhelming at the same time. Drawing on conversations with working parents, she unpacks the realities behind the stress, including financial pressures, home affordability, and the unrealistic expectation that parents can operate at full capacity at work while running a household seamlessly. What makes this discussion particularly compelling is its focus on simple, practical strategies rather than perfection. One of the key ideas is learning to reduce mental overload by getting worries out of your head and onto paper. When concerns stay trapped in your thoughts, they tend to grow. Writing them down helps parents move from feeling stuck to taking small, manageable steps forward. The podcast also invites parents to reflect on what actually worked for their family last year, instead of starting from scratch every January. By identifying routines that supported family life and making small adjustments to what did not work, families can create calmer mornings, smoother transitions, and less daily friction. Another standout theme is the idea of treating family life like a team effort. Instead of parents carrying the entire burden, children are invited to contribute in age appropriate ways that build responsibility, belonging, and essential life skills. This shift helps families move away from constant conflict and towards cooperation and shared purpose. The conversation is warm, honest, and reassuring. It reminds parents that stress is not a personal failure, it is often a sign of systems that demand too much with too little support. Most importantly, it offers realistic ways to regain a sense of control and confidence as the year unfolds. If you are looking for grounded ideas and inspiration that feels achievable in real life, this episode is well worth your time.

No matter who I speak with, everyone is experiencing stress at some level every day. Whether it is because there is too much to do, financial issues or relationship troubles each of these can create a lot of stress. Not to mention the low level stress like...what will I cook for dinner tonight, prepare for the children’s lunches tomorrow or buy for my friend’s birthday? And the list goes on… And what about our children’s stress? Children have busy schedules, social issues and study pressures – not to mention the stress they experience simply because they see their parents are stressed. In my book,  Inspired Children: how the leading minds of today raise their kids , has a chapter by Maggie Dent dedicated to understanding the stress children experience and how to help them manage it. You can read more about it in her chapter entitled: Calming children and the world: tools for managing stress and chaos. Now we all know that stress makes you feel unwell but what many people may not realise is the MEDICAL FACT that according to the National Institutes of Health from 80 to 90 percent of all illnesses are either directly or indirectly caused by stress. Scary! Furthermore, research shows that many adults aren’t able to manage their stress because no-one helped them with stress and distress in their childhood so they did not develop the self regulating systems in their brains.  You can see that it’s really important to manage your own stress and to help your children learn stress management techniques that will give them a valuable skill for life. It doesn’t take long to decrease your stress and you can use a variety of techniques like focussing on taking a few deep breaths, going for a short walk (in nature if possible) or doing a few stretches for the neck, legs, arms and back because as it turns out stiff muscles hold tension and make you feel more stressed. Makes sense! Why not make it a fun and relaxing time for both you and your kids.

Are you a parent of an only child?  Do you get called selfish?  Are you worried your child will be lonely and antisocial?    Mamamia asked Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine parenting expert and family wellbeing educator,  "There has been a lot of research disproving the myth that only children will be worse off than children with siblings, can you share it?"  Read the full article here.