Colleen Rooney on Building a Strong Relationship, Parenting and Life in the Public Eye

For the teenage Colleen Rooney, life took an unexpected turn when she began dating Wayne Rooney. Suddenly, she found herself thrust into the public eye, navigating fame that was entirely new to her. “I remember being photographed in my school uniform, just walking home,” she says. “It felt like a completely different world. I was just a teenager, figuring life out, and then there were cameras documenting everything.”

The intense scrutiny was challenging but Colleen’s focus on mental wellbeing and a strong sense of self helped her stay grounded. “My parents always reminded me to focus on the things that truly mattered - my family, my friends and my education,” she shares. “It’s so easy to get caught up in the noise, but taking care of your mental health means stepping back and staying connected to what makes you feel whole.”

Today, Colleen can reflect on those formative years with some gratitude for the lessons they taught her. “It wasn’t easy, but it gave me resilience and helped me prioritise balance, which is something I still carry with me.”

Parenting in the Age of WhatsApp Groups

Colleen Rooney is no stranger to the challenges that come with parenting today, especially when it comes to the ever-present school WhatsApp groups. “It can be so helpful sometimes, but other times it’s complete chaos!” she laughs. Juggling four boys, each with their own schedules, means that these groups can be a lifeline but also a source of stress. “It’s great when someone reminds you about a school event you might have forgotten, but there have been mornings where my phone hasn’t stopped buzzing.”

'When Whatsapp groups are used well, they’re such a great way to feel supported and connected,' she says. 'But like anything, it’s about moderation. You need to find the balance between being involved and taking time for yourself.'

For Colleen, finding this balance is key. “I’ve learned to filter out the noise and focus on what’s truly important,” she explains. Her parenting approach prioritises wellbeing, both for herself and her children. “I always tell other mums - it’s okay to step back. You don’t have to be part of every conversation or solve every problem immediately.”

'I always tell other mums—it’s okay to step back. You don’t have to be part of every conversation or solve every problem immediately.'

Supporting Each Other Through Life’s Ups and Downs

Colleen and Wayne’s relationship has weathered its share of ups and downs, but their commitment to each other has remained steadfast. “We’ve grown together through everything,” she says. “It’s not always been easy, but it’s been worth it.” For Colleen, the foundation of their partnership is built on open communication and mutual respect. “Whenever things get tough, we make sure to talk about it. It’s all about being honest and creating a space where you can be yourself.”

Colleen is quick to point out that maintaining balance in a relationship requires effort. “You need to make time for each other,” she explains. “Even if it’s something small, like having a quiet meal together, those moments add up.” She also emphasises the importance of individual growth within a partnership. ”We support each other, but we also make sure to have our own interests and goals. It’s about being a team while still being yourself.”

For Colleen, it’s about perspective. “The key is to focus on the things that bring you closer and not let the hard times define you. Relationships thrive when you approach them with patience, understanding and a willingness to grow together.”