Dr Mary O'Kane is a Lecturer in Psychology and Early Childhood Studies at the Open University. Her research interests include childhood transitions, self-esteem and wellbeing, and the value of play. She is an expert contributor to the Anton Savage Show on Newstalk radio discussing a broad range of parenting and childhood issues while also responding to viewers' parenting queries. She is also a regular contributor to various other national and local media outlets. Her first book 'Perfectly Imperfect Parenting: Connection Not Perfection' was published in April 2021, and received an Honorary Mention in the Eric Hofer Book Awards. She gives public talks and online Webinars for parents and educators on a range of topics related to child wellbeing, parenting, and education. Her latest book, published in 2024, is 'Anxious Children in an Anxious World: Facing Fear and Finding Brave'.