Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

As the end of the year closes in us, we take a look back at 2024 and the top five episodes you listened to this year. Click on the links to go back and listen to an episode. Number 5 - #1041 Screens Suck Number 4 - #1042 Work & Home School Life Balance Number 3 - #1009 ADHD in Adults & Toddlers Number 2 - #1038 Managing Emotional Dysregulation Number 1 - #1055 Why The Kids Don't Listen   F...

It's the weekly wrap up, where we look back at the week that was and figure out ways that we can improve in our parenting. In this episode: Despite being guaranteed downtime this year, Kylie is feeling more tired than ever. If we want to do better, we need to do less. Self awareness is a game changer. Putting your whole self into whatever you are doing. Related Links: Leidy Klotz - Subtract Find u...

This Christmas, skip the shopping stress and focus on what really matters. From creating a stress-free environment to embracing meaningful traditions, we explore how these intangible gifts—none of which require wrapping paper or a credit card—can bring joy and connection to your family.  In this episode: Peace Presence not presents Playfulness Purpose Family traditions Reject the pursuit of perfec...

What happens when online bullying transcends the screen and starts shaping young lives in tragic ways? With eSafety Commissioner  Julie Inman Grant , we uncover the harsh realities of cyberbullying, sextortion, and the online traps facing today’s youth. Learn about innovative tools and strategies available to parents, educators, and schools to protect children, as well as the importance of staying...

As the holidays approach, many parents are preparing their children for the transition into school. Zoe Wragg , a parent educator and former primary school teacher, shares practical advice on making this major change easier. From understanding what school readiness really means to offering tips for supporting reading development, Zoe will help ease your worries.  Plus—strategies for a smooth start...

A few months ago we spoke about the momentum that was building for age restrictions around social media for children under 16.  On Friday those laws were passed in the Australian Parliament, so we thought this was the perfect opportunity to replay this episode, as it will help your family navigate the changes that are ahead. In Australia, children below a certain age will be banned from social med...

It's Friday, which means our weekly 'I'll Do Better Tomorrow' reflections, looking back on the week that was and thinking of ways we can improve as parents. As the year winds down, Kylie and Justin reflect on their goals and parenting approaches, offering a mix of humor, candid thoughts, and lessons learned. Topics discussed in this episode: Our words of the year - EMBRACE (Kylie) and PRESENT (Jus...

Dive with us into three issues impacting parents today: Woolies has partnered with Roblox (and parents are mad!). The rise of nicotine pouches among teens as a discreet alternative to vaping or smoking. Proposed legislation to ban kids under 16 from accessing social media and the challenges of enforcement. In this episode: Roblox Rewards at Woolies Thousands of Australians Call for Woolworths to A...

How do we teach our boys about consent in a world filled with mixed messages and harmful influences? Daniel Principe shares his experience working with boys, schools, and families to address this challenge.  From tackling online influences to reshaping outdated notions of masculinity, Daniel paints a hopeful yet realistic picture of where we stand and what needs to improve. He explains why startin...

Is repeating a year of school really the best solution for struggling students? Join us as we unpack the research, share personal stories, and discuss why alternatives like tailored teaching/differentiation, extra support, and starting school at the right age may yield better outcomes for your child. Whether you’re grappling with this decision or curious about educational trends, this episode offe...

With Christmas just around the corner, it's time for men to step up and do some shopping! Don't let Mum be the only one without a present under the tree this year.  This episode explores why many far too mums feel left out during the festive season and just want to be thought of by their family. Tune in for practical tips, heartfelt conversations, and a reminder that the best gifts don't have to b...

Parenting isn’t always smooth sailing, especially with a teenager in the house. In this reflective episode, Justin shares a wake-up call about his own negativity bias and how shifting his focus transformed a tricky relationship. Kylie brings balance with a reminder that kids spell love as T-I-M-E . Whether you’re juggling the chaos of year-end or simply trying to connect better, this episode offer...

Curious about homeschooling? After a year of diving into this countercultural approach to education, Justin and Kylie share the surprising benefits, the unexpected challenges, and the transformative impact it’s had on their family. In this episode: Highs & lows of homeschooling Facebook post  - join the conversation! Emotional regulation Neurodivergence  #1111 - Home Schooling 101 With Brett C...

Consent, respect, and healthy relationships—how can parents prepare their children for these crucial aspects of life? Chanel Contos , founder of the  Teach Us Consent movement, joins Justin to discuss the challenges of addressing normalised sexual violence, the role parents play in creating open dialogues, and the crucial inclusion of boys in these conversations. In this episode: Talk About Consen...

Are we giving kids the equivalent of car keys to a digital world they're not prepared to navigate? In this episode, Dr. Justin Coulson and guest Matt Purcell dive into the complex issue of kids and social media. From the psychological toll it takes on young users to the uphill battle parents face in managing screen time, we explore practical solutions and innovative tools like 'Social Kung Fu' to...

Dr Emma Watkins is bringing something new to the table with an exclusive project every parent will want to hear about. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look into her inspiring journey! In this episode: The Wiggles Emma Memma Dr Emma Watkins' PhD Abstract Sign-language Self-care & goats Balancing dreams with realistic goals Endometriosis & fertility challenges A Dream for Every Night with Em...

Ever faced the uphill battle of convincing your kids to put down their devices, step into nature, and engage with life? I'll Do Better Tomorrow: Justin and Kylie chat about dealing with pushback when you know what's best for your kids, but they resist. In this episode: Tech-free teens Firm but loving encouragement to step outside comfort zones Modelling active engagement Motivating teenagers Wild...

Dive into cutting-edge studies on parenting and child development, from income's role in behaviour to the debate over smacking's effects. Find out what the latest research says about the best ways to support our kids’ growth! In this episode: Impact of income on children's behaviour & development New study...better support would bring lifelong benefits | The Conversation Preschoolers: physical...

Raising a neurodivergent child can feel like an uphill battle, especially within a rigid school system. In this episode, Dr. Justin Coulson, along with Madonna King and Rebecca Sparrow , share essential strategies for empowering neurodivergent children and offer hope to parents navigating this challenging path. In this episode: Out of the Box: A Guide to Navigating Neurodivergence   by Madonna Kin...

At a recent  Fathers of Girls conference, Kylie brought a room full of dads to tears as she spoke about the power of time and connection in parenting. Listen to her heartfelt message, reminding us that it is the time we spend with our children that truly matters. In this episode: Personal Progress Interviews Creating a safe space  Having your child's back no matter what Love is spelt T.I.M.E Foste...

Schoolies Week can be a thrilling time for teens, but it’s often a nerve-wracking experience for parents. In this episode, we share two essential strategies every parent needs to help their teens navigate Schoolies Week safely and responsibly. In this episode: Schoolies: a rite of passage? Open, honest communication (before and during Schoolies) Safety planning Creating strong support networks Bou...

Every Friday we do "I'll Do Better Tomorrow", where Justin and Kylie reflect on the week that was, and how they can be better parents tomorrow. In this episode: Dads and straight up conversations Girls are layered Dadding vs Babysitting Not dropping your son-in-law in it. Don't sweat the small stuff Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or...

"Region Beta Paradox"is a phenomenon where minor annoyances that don't seem urgent can actually cause more stress over time if left unaddressed.  We apply this concept to parenting, showing how minor behaviours in children, like whining or sibling squabbles, can escalate if repeatedly ignored, affecting both the child's development and the parent's well-being. In this episode: The Region Beta Para...

Bullying can have a huge impact on our kids' lives. Recently, Dr Justin had a conversation with Rachel and Sarah on their podcast The Parenting Couch .  Today's snippet from that covers definitions of bullying, how to open up conversations about it, and what steps to take when your child is involved. Find the link to the full conversation in our show notes.  In this episode: What is bullying? Verb...

*Listener discretion advised* A concerned parent, Emily, has sent in a sensitive but increasingly relevant question. Emily’s seven-year-old son confided that his friend was suggesting inappropriate behaviours, including taking photos of private areas. Listen in for guidance on handling difficult conversations, protecting children’s safety, and fostering trust. In this episode: Importance of a trus...