The tween years (roughly ages 8–12) are a critical time for brain development, emotional growth, and identity formation. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Steve Kassem, a neuroscientist specialising in brain development, to explore what’s happening inside the tween brain and how parents can navigate this pivotal stage.

From understanding mood swings to fostering independence while maintaining strong connections, Dr. Kassem shares the science behind tween behaviour and offers practical strategies to support your child’s emotional and cognitive growth before they enter the teenage years.

Tune in for insights that will help you build a deeper bond with your tween and set the foundation for a positive adolescence!

About our guest

Dr Steve Kassem holds a BSc in Neuroscience and Psychology from the University of Sydney and a PhD from both the University of Sydney and UNSW. His research focuses on how chronic stress reshapes the brain, impacting learning and neural circuits.

He modernised the century-old Golgi stain, making it compatible with modern techniques, and was awarded the Peter Bancroft Award for research excellence. As a postdoctoral fellow, he has worked extensively with Prof George Paxinos, co-authoring brain atlases and now leading efforts to create the highest-resolution human brain map ever made.