Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

When the afternoon chaos of activities, homework, and commitments leaves everyone exhausted and frustrated, it's not your organisational skills that need work—it's your approach. Justin and Kylie reveal their game-changing strategy for transforming family schedules from overwhelming to manageable, including the one question that changes everything:  "Does the schedule serve you, or do y...

Forget sticker charts and pocket money—the key to getting kids to help around the house isn't about rewards or punishments. Discover why making contribution fun transforms resistance into enthusiasm, and learn the simple system that's getting kids excited about helping at home. Key Points: Traditional chore charts often create resistance Linking chores to pocket money typically backfires Mak...

New research reveals that the "convenient" pre-packaged school lunches are actually the most expensive option - and the least healthy. Discover the simple menu system that saves money, improves nutrition, and gets kids excited about their school lunches. Key Points: 90% of Australian kids take packed lunches to school Average lunch box costs $4.50 Pre-packaged foods cost more than fresh options 40...

  The School Morning Hack That Changes Everything: A Slice of Advice on Getting out the Door Stress Free The secret to peaceful school mornings isn't what you do in the morning at all. Discover the simple evening ritual that transforms chaotic school mornings into manageable moments of connection, and why this one change makes all the difference. Key Points: The critical importance of evening...

Justin interviews Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Duhigg about his groundbreaking book "Super Communicators." Discover the science behind meaningful family conversations and learn practical strategies to transform how you connect with your children and partner. Key Points: Understanding the three types of conversations: practical, emotional, and social Why fixing problems isn't always the answer How...

One-on-one time transforms parent-child relationships, but finding that time can seem impossible. Discover the revolutionary monthly date system that's helping parents create deeper connections with each child—and why being truly present matters more than what you actually do together. Key Points: Monthly one-on-one dates based on birth date Importance of intentional planning vs spontaneous...

Why Your Kids Should Risk Breaking Their Arm Today Discover why letting your kids take physical risks - even ones that could land them in the doctor's office - might be exactly what they need for healthy development.   Key Points: Physical challenges help children develop resilience Many schools have removed risky play equipment like monkey bars Stanford research shows parent reactions shape...

Understanding the right type of conversation can transform family communication and deepen connections with our children. Justin and Kylie explore insights from Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Duhigg's book "Super Communicators". Key Points: Understanding the three types of conversations: practical, emotional, and social Why fixing problems isn't always what our children need How to identify which c...

How to support children through their fears and phobias - whether it's buttons, beards, or anything in between - without escalating their anxiety. Key Points: Children's fears, no matter how irrational they seem, are genuinely frightening to them Trying to have rational conversations with emotional children is counterproductive Telling children they have "no choice" increases anxiety rather than r...

Justin and Kylie explore eight bold predictions for parenting and family life in 2025, covering everything from emerging parenting styles to AI's impact on education and the challenges facing young men.  Key Predictions 1. **The Rise of Lighthouse Parenting**    - Moving away from helicopter and free-range parenting extremes    - Parents act as steady guides while children...

Australia's most decorated Olympian, Emma McKeon, shares intimate insights about her journey from young swimmer to Olympic champion, revealing the crucial role her parents played in fostering success without pressure. Her story provides a masterclass in supporting children's sporting endeavors while maintaining joy and balance. Key Points: The importance of enjoyment over achievement in youth spor...

Can a little “selfishness” make you a better parent? Join Kylie and Justin as they share relatable parenting mishaps, with a reminder that taking care of yourself is a gift to everyone around you. Key Points: The value of a "do nothing" holiday Finding permission for personal time How parenting changes across different children The impact of slowing down Quote of the Episode: " We've b...

Inside Out 2 isn’t just a movie—it’s a parenting masterclass on navigating the beautiful chaos of adolescence! Justin and Kylie Coulson explore the profound parenting insights from Inside Out 2, discussing teen brain development, emotional complexity, and why this film offers valuable understanding for parents. Key Points: Teen brain development and the "construction zone" phase...

Emma McKeon, with 14 Olympic medals, knows what it takes to excel without burning out—and she credits her parents for getting the balance just right. In this episode, we dive into Emma’s upbringing to uncover strategies for encouraging kids to pursue their passions with joy and self-determination. From transforming performance anxiety into a secret weapon to helping children develop di...

Ever feel like you’re stuck in the loop of “How was your day?” and hearing “meh” in response? Justin and Kylie share research-backed strategies for having meaningful conversations with your children, including five core questions that build emotional intelligence and resilience. Learn why timing and technique matter more than the questions themselves, and discover how...

Justin and Kylie kick off 2025 with a powerful discussion about resetting family life using their WISE Family Reset framework. After experiencing burnout in 2024, they share personal insights about slowing down and making intentional changes for the year ahead. Quotes of the Episode : " We're not striving for perfection. We're striving for small, incremental changes ." - Justin Coulson " It's not...

Ever wondered how to go beyond the tinsel and treats of Christmas to create a truly holy and meaningful celebration? Justin and Kylie Coulson take you on a journey through the "Three Levels of Christmas," offering heartfelt ideas and inspiring stories to bring joy and purpose to your family’s holiday season. Whether it's singing carols, setting up nativity scenes, or reflecting on deeper spi...

Does Christmas gift-giving feel more like a burden than a joy as you try to find a balance between gift-giving and avoiding entitlement? Dr. Justin Coulson and Kylie discuss how to preserve the magic of the season while avoiding the trap of indulgence and entitlement. In this episode: Finding perspective Reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas Having zero agenda—relationships, games, joy...

"Are we there yet?" Long family road trips can definitely be painful, BUT they can also be a great opportunity for some quality family time! We share a list of some helpful road trip games to keep everyone entertained. I-spy Spotto I went to the shops and I bought The alphabet game Car cricket Old MacDonald Had A Farm The Goanna Gang Bingo This Is The Song That Never Ends Peel The Avocado The Fart...

Some Christmas movies that will keep your children from getting underfoot while you get the gifts wrapped! G-rated options: The Polar Express Klaus Arthur Christmas Elf Home Alone Santa Clause Honourable (grown up) mentions: Christmas Chronicles Bad Santa The Holiday Nativity movies: The Nativity Story (2006) Chasing The Star (2017) VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy (2011) The Star (2017) Journe...

Christmas is a time where we can really lean into and celebrate family traditions!  Christmas traditions: Gifts, Santa. decorating Spending time with loved ones Advent, carols, the nativity Christmas Eve, stockings, pyjamas, Jolabokaflod Christmas ninjas - giving & serving others Related Links: Take Back Christmas Family Traditions Help Kids Make Sense of Life Find us on Faceboo...

Feel like you're drowning in a sea of Christmas "shoulds" and "musts" as a parent? Or that you're constantly running on empty, with no energy left to enjoy moments with your kids?  This episode of I'll Do Better Tomorrow addresses the burnout that many parents experience during the holiday season and beyond.  Listen in to hear Justin and Kyle share their own struggles and insights, as we...

This episode unpacks Australia's groundbreaking social media ban for kids under 16, set to roll out by Christmas 2025. With tech giants stepping up enforcement, parents are relieved, while teens face digital detoxes. Join the discussion as we explore Prince Harry’s surprising critique, parents’ joys and woes, and strategies for tackling this new era of tech parenting. In this episode:...

This episode takes a heartfelt turn as we delve into one of the most touching Christmas stories ever written—O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi . Whether you’re a longtime fan of the tale or hearing it for the first time, its timeless message of love and sacrifice is sure to move you. In this episode: A reflection on Christmas storytelling O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi Sacrifice, love, and the spir...

Christmas is almost here! In this festive episode, we share five simple yet impactful ways to elevate your holiday celebrations. Whether it’s through meaningful traditions, playful gift exchanges, or acts of kindness, we’re here to help you focus on what truly matters—time, connection, and joy. In this episode: Focus on time together Fun with gifts Christmas Eve traditions Jolabokaflod - Icelandic...