Search Results

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on the Consciuos Coach In this interview, I share insights into why sibling rivalry and friendship drama are such common challenges for teens, and what parents can do to help without making things worse. Understanding when to step in and when to step back is key, and I explain the three main ways young people resolve conflict — coercion, negotiation, and disengagement — and how these differ between home and social settings. We also explore how birth order shapes relationships, what to watch for when rivalry turns into bullying, and how parents can use values-based strategies to build empathy and respect. 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.

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. 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 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. 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 is one of the most rewarding yet challenging roles anyone can take on. Every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. However, there are proven strategies that can help parents foster a nurturing, supportive, and structured environment for their children. This article explores practical and effective approaches to parenting that can be adapted to fit any family dynamic. Understanding the Importance of Strategies for Parenting Success Successful parenting is not about perfection but about consistency, love, and guidance. Developing strategies for parenting success means creating a framework that supports your child’s growth emotionally, socially, and intellectually. It involves setting clear expectations, maintaining open communication, and modelling positive behaviour. For example, establishing daily routines can help children feel secure and understand what is expected of them. This might include regular meal times, homework sessions, and bedtime rituals. Consistency in these routines helps children develop self-discipline and time management skills. Another key aspect is active listening. When parents take the time to listen attentively to their children’s thoughts and feelings, it builds trust and encourages open dialogue. This can be as simple as setting aside 10 minutes each day to talk without distractions. Building Strong Foundations with Positive Communication Effective communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, including between parents and children. Positive communication involves not only speaking clearly but also using body language and tone that convey respect and understanding. Parents can use "I" statements to express their feelings without blaming, such as "I feel worried when you don’t come home on time." This approach reduces defensiveness and opens the door for problem-solving. It is also important to validate children’s emotions. Saying things like "I understand you’re upset about the change in plans" helps children feel heard and supported. This validation encourages emotional intelligence and resilience. Practical tips for improving communication include: Maintaining eye contact during conversations Avoiding interruptions Asking open-ended questions to encourage elaboration Summarising what your child says to show understanding What are the 4 parenting strategies? Understanding the four main parenting styles can help parents identify which approach best suits their family and child’s needs. These styles are: Authoritative - Combines warmth and structure. Parents set clear rules but are also responsive and open to dialogue. This style is linked to positive outcomes like high self-esteem and social competence. Authoritarian - Focuses on strict rules and obedience with little warmth. This can lead to children feeling anxious or rebellious. Permissive - High warmth but low discipline. Parents are indulgent and may avoid setting boundaries, which can result in children struggling with self-control. Uninvolved - Low warmth and low discipline. This neglectful style can negatively impact a child’s development and emotional health. Most experts recommend the authoritative style as it balances guidance with empathy. However, parents may find themselves using different styles in various situations. The key is to remain consistent and intentional in your approach. Practical Tips for Implementing Effective Parenting Strategies To put effective parenting strategies into practice, consider the following actionable steps: Set Clear Boundaries: Define rules and consequences clearly. For example, "Homework must be done before screen time." Encourage Independence: Allow children to make age-appropriate choices to build confidence and decision-making skills. Model Behaviour: Demonstrate the values and behaviours you want your child to adopt, such as kindness and honesty. Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise efforts and achievements to motivate and build self-esteem. Stay Calm During Conflicts: Take deep breaths and approach discipline with patience rather than anger. Create Family Traditions: Regular activities like game nights or weekend outings strengthen family bonds. Remember, flexibility is important. Adjust your strategies as your child grows and their needs change. Supporting Emotional and Social Development Children’s emotional and social skills are just as important as academic success. Parents can support this development by: Teaching empathy through discussing feelings and perspectives. Encouraging friendships and social activities. Helping children manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing. Being a role model for healthy relationships. When children feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to develop resilience and positive self-worth. Parenting is a journey filled with learning and growth for both parents and children. By adopting effective parenting strategies , families can create a loving and structured environment that promotes success and happiness for all members. Embrace these approaches with patience and commitment, and watch your family thrive.

Parenting Expert Dr Rosina McAlpine Interviewed on ABC Radio Domestic and family violence continues to be one of the most serious issues facing Australian communities, with alarming new figures showing 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 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.” 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 — such as dismissing behaviour with phrases like “boys will be boys” or “he did it because he likes you.” 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. 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 — providing 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.” 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.” 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.

Parenting is one of the most rewarding yet challenging journeys. Every parent wants to raise happy, confident, and well-behaved children. However, knowing the best approach to achieve this can be overwhelming. Positive parenting offers a compassionate and effective way to nurture your child’s development. To support you on this path, there are many valuable resources available that provide guidance, tools, and inspiration. Discover Essential Resources for Positive Parenting Positive parenting focuses on building a strong, respectful relationship between parents and children. It encourages understanding, empathy, and consistent discipline without harsh punishment. To get started, consider exploring books, online courses, and expert advice that cover topics such as communication skills, emotional regulation, and behaviour management. Some practical resources include: Books : Titles like The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel Siegel and How to Talk So Kids Will Listen by Adele Faber offer actionable strategies. Websites : Trusted parenting websites provide articles, videos, and forums for sharing experiences. Workshops and webinars : Many organisations offer live or recorded sessions to deepen your understanding. Using these resources can help you develop patience, set clear boundaries, and foster a nurturing environment at home. Parenting books on a shelf How to Choose the Right Resources for Positive Parenting With so many options available, selecting the right resources can be confusing. Here are some tips to help you find the most effective materials: Look for evidence-based content - Choose resources backed by research and expert recommendations. Consider your child’s age and personality - Tailor your learning to suit your child’s developmental stage. Check for practical advice - Resources that offer step-by-step guidance and real-life examples are more useful. Seek support from professionals - Parenting coaches, psychologists, and educators can provide personalised help. One excellent source of positive parenting resources is Dr Rosina’s website, which offers expert insights and tools designed to empower families. Parenting webinar on laptop screen Building Daily Habits with Positive Parenting Tools Incorporating positive parenting into your daily routine requires consistency and commitment. Here are some actionable recommendations to make it easier: Practice active listening : Give your child your full attention when they speak. Use positive reinforcement : Praise good behaviour to encourage repetition. Set clear expectations : Explain rules calmly and clearly. Model emotional regulation : Show how to handle frustration and anger constructively. Create family rituals : Regular activities like shared meals or bedtime stories strengthen bonds. Using tools such as behaviour charts, emotion cards, and calming techniques can support these habits. Remember, small changes over time lead to lasting improvements. Family sharing a meal together Overcoming Common Parenting Challenges with Support Every family faces challenges such as tantrums, sibling rivalry, or screen time battles. Positive parenting resources can help you navigate these issues with confidence. For example: Tantrums : Learn to identify triggers and respond with empathy rather than punishment. Sibling rivalry : Encourage cooperation and teach conflict resolution skills. Screen time : Set boundaries and offer engaging alternatives. Joining parenting groups or online communities can provide emotional support and practical tips from others who understand your situation. Empower Your Parenting Journey Today Investing time in learning and applying positive parenting techniques benefits both you and your child. By accessing the right resources, you can create a loving, respectful, and supportive family environment. Remember, parenting is a continuous learning process, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Explore trusted positive parenting resources to unlock your family’s full potential and enjoy the rewarding experience of raising happy, resilient children.

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.” 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.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Illawarra In today’s media-driven world, children and teens are surrounded by 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. 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 important for children to accurately evaluate their abilities while still developing a strong sense of self-worth. The discussion also explores how social media and constant comparison with others can negatively impact young people’s self-image and mental health. Most importantly, the audio dives into what parents can do at home to make a real difference. From encouraging effort over outcomes, to teaching children how to handle mistakes with resilience, Dr Rosina offers practical, down-to-earth strategies to support healthy development. 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.

Raising children today means preparing them for a world that is constantly changing. Beyond academic knowledge, kids need practical skills to navigate daily challenges and build a foundation for lifelong success. Teaching essential life skills equips children with the confidence and independence they need to thrive. This article explores how to empower your kids by focusing on these vital skills, offering actionable advice and clear examples to help you get started. Why Teaching Essential Life Skills Matters Life skills are the abilities that help individuals manage everyday tasks and challenges effectively. These include communication, problem-solving, time management, and emotional regulation. When children learn these skills early, they develop resilience and adaptability. For example, teaching a child how to manage their time can improve their school performance and reduce stress. Simple activities like creating a daily schedule or setting reminders can make a big difference. Similarly, encouraging kids to express their feelings helps them build emotional intelligence, which is crucial for healthy relationships. Parents and educators play a key role in this process. By integrating life skills into daily routines, children learn naturally and consistently. This approach also fosters independence, as kids gain the tools to solve problems on their own. Practical Strategies for Teaching Essential Life Skills Teaching life skills does not require formal lessons. Instead, it can be woven into everyday activities. Here are some practical strategies: Model the behavior : Children learn a lot by watching adults. Show them how you handle tasks like budgeting, cooking, or resolving conflicts calmly. Use real-life situations : Involve kids in grocery shopping to teach budgeting or cooking to develop nutrition awareness and safety. Encourage decision-making : Let children make choices appropriate to their age, such as picking their clothes or planning a weekend activity. Set clear expectations and routines : Consistency helps children understand responsibility and time management. Praise effort and progress : Positive reinforcement motivates kids to keep improving their skills. For instance, when teaching communication, role-play different scenarios like asking for help or expressing opinions respectfully. This practice builds confidence and social skills. Remember, patience is key. Children learn at their own pace, and mistakes are part of the process. What are the 5 Stages of Skill Development? Understanding how skills develop can help you support your child effectively. The five stages of skill development are: Unconscious Incompetence - The child is unaware of the skill and their lack of ability. Conscious Incompetence - The child recognises the skill but knows they cannot perform it well. Conscious Competence - The child can perform the skill but must concentrate and think about it. Unconscious Competence - The skill becomes second nature and can be performed without much thought. Mastery - The child can perform the skill effortlessly and adapt it to new situations. For example, when learning to tie shoelaces, a child may initially be unaware of the steps (stage 1). With practice and guidance, they become aware of their mistakes (stage 2), then learn to tie laces with focus (stage 3). Eventually, they tie laces automatically (stage 4) and can teach others or tie different types of knots (stage 5). Knowing these stages helps you provide the right support at each phase, encouraging persistence and celebrating milestones. Key Life Skills to Focus On While many skills are valuable, some are essential for every child’s success: Communication : Listening actively, speaking clearly, and understanding non-verbal cues. Problem-solving : Identifying problems, brainstorming solutions, and evaluating outcomes. Time management : Prioritising tasks, setting goals, and avoiding procrastination. Financial literacy : Understanding money, saving, and budgeting. Self-care : Personal hygiene, nutrition, and managing emotions. Social skills : Cooperation, empathy, and conflict resolution. Incorporate these skills into daily life. For example, assign age-appropriate chores to teach responsibility and time management. Discuss money by giving a small allowance and guiding spending choices. For more resources on life skills development , consider exploring e-books and guides that offer structured activities and tips. Encouraging Lifelong Learning and Growth Teaching essential life skills is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. Encourage curiosity and a growth mindset by: Celebrating effort, not just results. Encouraging questions and exploration. Providing opportunities for new experiences. Teaching children to reflect on their actions and learn from mistakes. By fostering these attitudes, children become motivated learners who adapt well to change and challenges. Remember, your support and encouragement are crucial. Show interest in their progress and be patient with setbacks. Over time, these skills will become part of their character and help them succeed in all areas of life. Empowering your kids with essential life skills sets them up for a confident and independent future. By integrating practical teaching methods, understanding skill development stages, and focusing on key abilities, you can help your children thrive in a complex world. Start today by making life skills a natural part of your family’s routine and watch your children grow into capable, resilient individuals.

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 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. 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.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Illawarra. As Christmas approaches, managing children's expectations becomes crucial. Parenting expert Dr Rosina advises focusing on holiday rituals like decorating, baking, and watching movies rather than just gifts. She suggests acknowledging children's desires and explaining that not all wishes can be fulfilled immediately, encouraging delayed gratification. For sibling comparisons, she recommends empathy and redirecting attention to shared blessings. Dr Rosina emphasizes the importance of small disappointments in teaching resilience. She also highlights the value of gratitude and slowing down present-opening to savor each gift. Delayed gratification is linked to success in various life aspects, reinforcing the importance of these lessons.