Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Christmas doesn’t have to be chaotic — and New Year goals don’t have to fail by February. In this episode, Justin & Kylie share how they transformed Christmas into their most joyful (and calm) ever, and the surprising mindset shift that finally made New Year’s resolutions stick. Expect simple family wins, real-life honesty, and a powerful reframe that boosts health, energy & connection in 2026. KEY POINTS Why “less is more” made Christmas our best yet The simple shoe-box wrapping hack every parent should steal The unexpected joy of giving (and getting) thoughtful gifts How a family goals retreat changed everything Why most resolutions fail — and what actually works The habit shift that created more vitality, energy & presence Small daily choices → big long-term family wins QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Goals work — but only when they become a lifestyle, a rhythm, a routine.” ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Plan a “less is more” Christmas: prioritise time, fun & simplicity Review family life quarterly: align goals, values, and expectations Choose identity over outcome: e.g., “I’m a runner” instead of “I’ll run a marathon” Track tiny wins: small daily progress beats big January promises Build shared vitality: move, eat well, and model healthy rhythms See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The stationery scramble matters… but not as much as your child’s heart. In this powerful back-to-school episode, Justin and Kylie share the real checklist that sets kids up for confidence, calm, friendships, and resilience—without over-engineering the morning routine or forcing a perfect bedtime. Whether your child is starting school for the first time or changing schools for the fourth time, these strategies make Week 1 smoother and the whole year emotionally healthier. KEY POINTS The basic supplies are not what define success—keep them simple and stress-free. Three non-negotiables before Day 1: emotional check-ins, “who’s got your back” planning, and relationship connection. Why rehearsing the morning routine and enforcing strict early bedtimes are overrated. The 4-Part Real Checklist that changes the entire school year: How Can I Help? — support their goals instead of setting them. Daily Check-In Questions that build resilience, kindness, and social insight. Friendship Audit — understanding who they spend time with and how to support healthy social worlds. Activity Opt-Out Audit — letting kids quit activities that drain them and choose ones that light them up. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “When kids define success on their terms and know we’re in their corner, they’re amazing.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Personal Progress Interviews (PPI) Daily Check-In Questions for connection Friendship Audit steps Family Meeting framework ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Hold a relaxed emotional check-in before school starts (in bed, at the beach, on a walk). Clarify “who’s got your back” at school—teacher, counselor, friend, parent. Ask one Daily Check-In Question at dinner or bedtime. Run a Friendship Audit: learn names, build contact, create unstructured hangouts. Run an Activity Opt-Out Audit: “If we weren’t already doing this, would you choose it today?” Give permission to drop activities that feel like obligations, not joys. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Smartphones feel inevitable… until you see what early access actually does to a child’s mental health, sleep, and happiness. In this episode, Dr Justin & Kylie Coulson break down new research from Pediatrics and share the family standard that finally ended the phone wars in their home (after one very big mistake). KEY POINTS New study: earlier smartphones = worse outcomes for kids. The four real reasons parents give phones (and why they’re flawed). Why “safety” doesn’t require a smartphone. How to replace phones with smarter solutions (incl. dumb phones + watches). The research consensus: delay improves outcomes. The family rule that ends entitlement (“when you can afford it…”). Boundaries if you already handed over a phone (it’s not too late). The real question: approval now or wellbeing later? QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Kids don’t need smartphones — they need smart parents. And smart parents give their kids dumb phones.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Pediatrics research on smartphone age & outcomes (referenced in episode) SpaceTalk Watch G-Mee Phone Free Range Kids by Lenore Skenazy Lisa Damour — Adolescent Psychology Resources ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Define the real problem you’re solving (safety, logistics, social connection, or training). Offer alternatives (dumb phone, landline, watch). Create a family standard — e.g. “When you can pay for it, you can have it.” If they already have a phone: Bedrooms & bathrooms = no-phone zones No phones at meals or short car rides Time limits & age limits on social media Review + scale back where possible See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Screens, school, and AI are about to collide—and families will feel it first. In this fast, punchy episode, Justin breaks down four major trends set to hit parents in 2026: hybrid schooling, AI chatbots, the messy social media ban, and the rise of screen-free childhood. If you want to understand what’s coming—and how it will impact your kids—start here. KEY POINTS Hybrid Education Exodus: homeschooling + online learning + co-ops = flexible mash-ups AI Goes Critical: chatbots linked to self-harm, loneliness & regulatory crackdowns Social Media Ban Backfires: VPNs, loopholes & vulnerable teens losing support Screen-Free Childhood Surges: parents push for play, device reduction & analogue life QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “If you find ways every single day to genuinely connect with your kids, your relationship will flourish—this year, next year, and every year after.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Federal under-16 social media legislation eSafety Commission actions & guidance Alternative schooling, homeschooling & co-op models AI chatbot research around teen mental health ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Watch for AI chatbots disguised as “companions” or “friends” Review school tech policies + device expectations for K-6 Consider flexible learning pathways if school is breaking your child Prioritise screen-free play for under-12s Keep tech conversations calm, connected and ongoing—not punitive See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new year brings a reality check: what actually changed for parents last year - and what didn’t? In this high-energy episode, Justin and Kylie review last year’s big parenting predictions (AI, social media, homeschooling, boys, cost of living, and more), celebrate the surprising hits, admit the misses, and tee up what’s coming next. Fast, fun, insightful - and wildly relevant for every parent stepping into 2026. KEY POINTS Which predictions landed in 2025 (and why they mattered for families) Where Justin was hilariously wrong (TikTok + travel = oops) The AI-powered parenting revolution - now real, mainstream, and everywhere Homeschooling’s massive surge and what’s driving it The global social media crackdown led by Australia - and why the rollout is bumpy Why boys still need more support - and the culture shift that hasn’t arrived yet YouTube’s silent dominance and what it means for kids and screens Cost of living, family strain, and the myth of intergenerational living QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “I was one hundred percent correct—AI has become a mainstream parenting assistant.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Skylight Calendar (meal planning + calendar tool) 8 Game-Changing Predictions for 2025 [Article] Today Show segment on homeschooling statistics Government announcements surrounding the under-16 social media ban ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Audit your family’s tech habits, screen time, and parental controls Explore AI as a support tool (homework, routines, meal planning) Stay informed on school and homeschooling trends - more families are switching Watch for changes in social media regulations and platform age limits Prioritise conversations about boys’ wellbeing - academic, emotional, social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If the idea of playing Barbies or dragons makes you groan… you’re not alone. In this episode, Justin and Kylie tackle a parenting confession that many are afraid to admit: “I don’t like playing with my kids.” Drawing from emotional intelligence research and real-life experience, they unpack why play matters (even if it’s not your favourite), how to make it meaningful and manageable, and why it’s one of the simplest ways to build connection, confidence, and emotional regulation in your child. KEY POINTS Play is not a luxury—it’s essential.Play builds emotional intelligence, connection, and social skills better than almost anything else. It’s not about doing it ‘right’.Play works best when it’s spontaneous, simple, and mutually enjoyable—not when it’s forced or scripted. The emotional impact is profound.Play regulates emotions, reduces tension, strengthens relationships, and helps kids feel seen, heard, and valued. The secret is in the interaction.What makes play powerful is the back-and-forth: the jokes, the giggles, the shared creativity—not the activity itself. A little goes a long way.Just 5–10 minutes of intentional play can fill your child’s emotional cup and help them play independently afterwards. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Play is not about perfection—it’s about connection and presence.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Happy Families Membership – parenting tools & webinars happyfamilies.com.au – resources for raising emotionally intelligent kids Shift by Ethan Kross ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Find a 5–10 minute window each dayYou don’t need hours. Commit to short, fully present bursts of play—no phones, no multitasking. Gamify the mundaneTurn routines into playful challenges: “Can you hop to the bathroom on one foot?” or “Let’s race to tidy up.” Let your child leadAsk: “How could we make this more fun?” Give them a sense of autonomy and watch their creativity bloom. Prioritise connection over performanceYou’re not there to entertain—you’re there to engage. Drop the pressure, enjoy the moment. Repeat. Consistency is the win.Over time, this builds emotional strength, stronger relationships, and memories that last. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are your phone habits impacting your child’s growth? We all know kids and screens don’t mix well—but what about parents and screens? A compelling new study has uncovered a strong link between a mother’s screen time and her child’s developmental outcomes. In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the latest research on "technoference" and what happens to our children when our eyes are glued to our devices. The results may just change the way you use your phone—especially around your kids. KEY POINTS: Study Summary: Japanese research of ~4,000 mother-child pairs found that more than one hour of screen use by mums in front of their children correlates with lower language and social development. Two Hours or More: Greater than two hours was associated with lower global development outcomes. Technoference: The distraction of devices interrupts “serve and return” interactions—vital for healthy child development. Modelling Matters: Kids mimic their parents—mums who use screens more are more likely to have kids who use them too. TV vs. Devices: Passive screen time (TV) is less harmful than interactive, overstimulating device use—but still not ideal. Screen Time ≠ Quality Learning: Despite nostalgic memories of “learning” from Sesame Street, research shows TV is a poor teacher compared to real-world engagement. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: "Screens are a hollow imitation of real life... real development happens in person-to-person, face-to-face interactions." RESOURCES: The study published in Nature Scientific Reports (March 2025) Unplugged Parenthood: Reducing Screen Time to Strengthen Family Connections [Article] Happy Families website: happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Be Present: Put down your phone when you're with your child—especially in those early years. Set Boundaries: Limit both your own and your child’s screen time with simple routines (e.g., no phones at the table or during playtime). Model Mindful Use: Show kids what healthy tech habits look like—because they’re watching. Prioritise Engagement: Make time for face-to-face chats, shared play, and reading together—real-life interactions build real brains. Use Screens Intentionally: If you need a break, opt for TV over devices, and choose age-appropriate, narrative-driven content. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boys take risks. They push limits. They scare us. But underneath all that danger is an ancient drive to grow up and belong. In this deeply eye-opening conversation with Dr Arne Rubinstein, we unpack why boys behave this way, the missing “rite of passage” that modern culture has abandoned, and what parents can do today to help boys become grounded, respectful, and emotionally mature young men. This episode delivers clarity, relief, and practical steps every family needs. KEY POINTS Boys are wired for risk — if adults don’t create safe challenges, they’ll create their own. Cultures worldwide share four rite-of-passage elements: storytelling, challenge, visioning, and honouring. Without that process, boys can grow into adult men with boy psychology (self-centred, entitled, emotionally volatile). Dads, mums, and male role models each play a critical role — but the village matters for every boy. Early parenting is crucial: strong relationships, fair boundaries, shared stories, and responsibilities build maturity. Single mums can create support through uncles, mentors, friends, and community. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Every boy will go through a rite of passage. The question is whether he creates it himself — or whether we create something appropriate for him.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Dr Arne Rubinstein — Rites of Passage Institute The Making of Men (book) Happy Families Bringing Up Boys Summit The Miss-Connection Summit is also available Sign up here to be the first to news about Justin's new book 'Boys' ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Create 1:1 connection time — device-free and regular. Share stories from your own adolescence — including failures and learnings. Acknowledge strengths — notice what goes right. Teach reflection before correction — ask what they think first. Pair privileges with responsibility — avoid entitlement. Build the village — involve mentors, relatives, teachers, coaches. Separate the child from the behaviour — “I love you, but this isn’t okay.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever been halfway through a parenting reel thinking *“Oh wow, this is gold”… only to realise it’s actually terrible advice dressed up with pretty music and a pastel background? We’ve been there too. In today’s episode, Justin and Kylie unpack six pieces of popular parenting advice they’re choosing to ignore forever—and why you should too. From controlled crying to timeouts, “spoiling” kids with love, and the classic “just ignore the tantrum” strategy, we’re calling out the myths that sound helpful but harm connection. This episode is your permission slip to parent with heart, not hacks. KEY POINTS: Controlled crying is not independence training — It misunderstands attachment and ignores babies’ real needs. Timeouts don’t teach, they isolate — Punishment in disguise erodes trust and connection. Responsiveness isn’t spoiling — Kids thrive when we tune in, not tune out. Ignoring tantrums doesn’t make them go away — Empathy teaches emotional regulation. “Seen and not heard” is still hanging around (and still harmful) — Kids need space to be curious, push back respectfully, and develop their voice. Self-soothing is a myth for little ones — Kids learn to calm down with us, not alone. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Abandoning children in their most vulnerable moments teaches them nothing—except that our love is conditional.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Daniel Siegel Attachment research by Dr. Allan Schore ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Challenge bad advice — When you hear advice that feels off, trust your gut and check the research. Choose connection over correction — When your child is distressed, meet them with empathy instead of isolation. Be responsive, not reactive — Show up consistently so your child learns to regulate through co-regulation. Make space for their voice — Let your kids respectfully question, push back, and express themselves. Ditch the naughty chair — Find real discipline strategies that teach, not punish. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most family goals sound great… and quietly disappear by February. In this short, honest episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share why family goal-setting usually falls apart — and the simple shifts that actually make goals work. From kids’ fitness goals to holidays, habits, and hopes for the year ahead, this episode shows how buy-in, accountability, and involvement turn good intentions into real change. If you want goals your kids don’t just agree to — but actually own — start here. KEY POINTS Why top-down family goals almost always fail The power of bottom-up buy-in (especially with older kids) How accountability and visible progress keep motivation alive Why parents must support goals without becoming the “goal police” The overlooked ingredient that makes family goals stick: involvement QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “The goals that work aren’t the ones parents announce — they’re the ones families build together.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Family meetings (What’s going well? What’s not? What should we focus on?) Happy Families website: happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Hold a short family meeting and let kids lead the goal ideas Choose one goal that feels challenging but achievable Set clear check-in points to notice progress Support the system — don’t police the outcome Get involved alongside your kids, especially when it’s hard See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's our final episode for 2025! With another year in the rear view mirror, its a very special I'll Do Better Tomorrow, as Justin and Kylie wrap up the year. Topics discussed include: Justin's reflection on the Bondi terror attack. Kylie's thoughts on the recent New Zealand cycling trip, and persevering through hard things. Digging deep when we're dealing with the day to day mundane. Justin and Kylie's highlights of 2025. Merry Christmas from the Happy Families Podcast team - Justin, Kylie, Mim and JR! We hope you have a wonderful season with those nearest and dearest to you. Thank you for making the Happy Families Podcast the most downloaded parenting podcast in Australia this year. We'll be back in 2026 with more daily parenting advice to help make your family happier. As always visit the Happy Families website for more resources, or join the conversation on our Facebook page.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the Christmas your kids remember most isn’t about what’s under the tree — but how it felt to be together? In this episode, we unpack the four gifts children truly need at Christmas — the ones you can’t buy, wrap, or return — and how letting go of perfection might be the very thing that brings more joy, calm, and connection into your home this season. KEY POINTS Why chasing the “perfect” Christmas often leaves parents exhausted and grumpy How peace doesn’t mean quiet — it means letting go of pressure Why kids crave presence more than presents How playfulness creates connection without deep talks or big emotions The role of purpose in giving Christmas meaning beyond consumerism Why imperfection might be the secret to a more memorable day QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Perfection isn’t what makes Christmas magical. Peace, presence, playfulness, and purpose do.” RESOURCES Born This Happy Morning Luke Chapter 2 & Matthew (The Christmas story) Take Back Christmas [Article] 10 Easy Traditions That Can Make Christmas Meaningful For Your Family [Article] ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Release one expectation that’s creating stress this Christmas Put your phone away for a block of uninterrupted family time Plan one playful activity just for fun (games, jokes, silliness encouraged) Talk as a family about what Christmas means to you — beyond gifts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas is meant to be joyful… so why does it leave so many parents anxious, exhausted, and overwhelmed?In this episode, Justin sits down with Rebecca Dredge (CEO of the Kiddo App) to unpack why school holidays spike parental stress — and what actually helps families survive the juggle of work, money, childcare, and endless commitments without burning out. This is a permission-giving conversation every tired parent needs before Christmas arrives. KEY POINTS Why over a third of parents feel anxious about school holidays The hidden pressure of “making Christmas magical” How saying no can protect your family (and your sanity) Why over-planning everything backfires — and what to plan instead Practical ways to get support without guilt or overwhelm QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “It’s okay to say no. Your fridge doesn’t need every invitation on it.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Kiddo App – On-demand babysitting and care support for families Happy Families resources at happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Circle the non-negotiables that matter most to your family Say no to at least one invitation this week Plan a few meaningful moments — not every moment Line up support before you’re desperate for it Aim to “glide into Christmas,” not collapse into it See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling the Christmas squeeze? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to drown in stress or debt to give your kids a magical holiday. In this episode, Justin and Kylie share six practical, heartfelt strategies real families use to make Christmas meaningful without blowing the budget. From essential-only Santa sacks to Secret Santa hacks, secondhand gems, and the power of one great gift, this episode is your permission to simplify and still make it special. KEY POINTS The “Four Gifts of Christmas” method that instantly reduces overwhelm How to fill Santa sacks with essentials (and why kids don’t mind!) The #1 mindset shift for sticking to a realistic budget What to do when your extended family list hits 40+ people Secondhand gifts, handmade gifts, and why they often mean more Why one high-quality gift beats a pile of cheap ones The surprising research on vouchers and experiences QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Giving looks different in different situations—but it can always be meaningful.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Facebook Marketplace & Gumtree for secondhand gift finds Secret Santa / Kris Kringle group gifting Marketplace categories for bikes, Pokémon cards & kids’ items ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Set a real budget (cash only, no credit card creep). Choose your gift-giving circle—kids, parents, or Secret Santa only. Use the Four Gifts framework: want, need, wear, read. Add essentials to stockings to lighten January expenses. Try secondhand or handmade for big-ticket or meaningful items. Pick one great quality gift instead of many small ones. Consider experiences or vouchers when you’re unsure what to buy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this emergency episode, Justin responds to the Bondi terror attacks, offering advice on how to talk to our children, as well as how Jewish families can discuss this with their children. For more up to the minute resources visit the Happy Families Facebook Page.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas chaos creeping in? This episode dives into the magic of festive films—and how they can buy you a precious pocket of peace. Justin and Kylie share their top kid-friendly Christmas movies (and a few grown-up gems), the surprising stories behind them, and why the right film at the right moment can reset the whole family. Perfect for parents who want joy, calm, nostalgia…and maybe a chance to wrap presents without being ambushed. KEY POINTS Why Christmas feels like a tug-of-war between calm and chaos—and how movies can soften the edges. Top kid-friendly Christmas films that uplift, entertain, and keep kids happily occupied. The unexpected origins and charm behind Klaus, Arthur Christmas, and more. Classics that still land for teens (Home Alone, The Santa Clause). Honourable mentions for grown-ups—yes, even the ones Justin hasn’t watched yet. A gentle reminder to pause and reconnect with the meaning of Christmas, whatever your family’s traditions. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE "When your kids are in your arms, they can’t possibly be underfoot." RESOURCES MENTIONED Happy Families Christmas webinars: Tis the Season to be Cranky and How to Unspoil your Kids this Christmas Christmas movie recommendations: Klaus, Arthur Christmas, Elf, Home Alone, The Santa Clause, Christmas Chronicles, faith-based nativity films. ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Choose one new Christmas movie to watch together this week—something uplifting and connection-building. Pick a “parent break” movie (a solid, guilt-free screen-time choice) to occupy the kids while you wrap, prep, or recharge. Consider a short nativity or values-focused film to spark meaningful family conversations. Keep your movie list saved for the entire month to avoid decision overwhelm on busy days. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Australia made global headlines — and parents everywhere felt it. Justin shares the emotional, history-making moment inside Kirribilli House as the new social-media age laws rolled out, the families whose stories shaped the legislation, and why this shift matters more than most people realise. Plus: the behind-the-scenes chaos of a family holiday that turned into a resilience masterclass. A powerful mix of emotion, insight, and laugh-so-you-don’t-cry parenting moments. KEY POINTS Inside the Kirribilli House event announcing Australia’s new age restrictions for social media. The heartbreaking parent stories that pushed lawmakers to act — and why the room was filled with tears. A rare moment of political unity that left Justin with goosebumps. What this new law actually means for teens, parents, and tech platforms in the months ahead. A family holiday disaster (expired passports, food poisoning, meltdowns, gale-force winds)… turned into a resilience-building win. Why doing hard, screen-free things is the secret ingredient to family connection. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE "This isn’t about politics. This is about our kids." — Prime Minister Albanese RESOURCES MENTIONED Heads Up Alliance Let Them Be Kids campaign Go Rail Trail (Queenstown) ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Talk to your teen about Australia’s new age rules and what they mean for your family. Watch how platforms respond over the next few months — enforcement will evolve. Create screen-incompatible moments: activities that pull kids away from devices naturally. Normalise hard things — help your kids practise choosing helpful thoughts when challenges arise. Lean into connection: shared struggle (and shared laughter) builds family closeness faster than comfort ever will.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever stood in the toy aisle wondering what will actually make my kids happy, this episode is the Christmas miracle you need. We unpack the surprising research on gift-giving—why experiences matter, when they don’t, and what different ages really want (and remember!) on Christmas morning. This one will change how you wrap Christmas… literally. KEY POINTS The science-backed truth: giving really does make us happier than receiving. Why toddlers get more joy from giving than getting (what?!). The ages where kids prefer “stuff”… and why it’s developmentally normal. When experiences finally “click” for kids and bring more lasting joy. How anticipation, shared moments and memories make experiences powerful. A simple framework for choosing the right gift for the right child at the right age. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “It’s not what you give — it’s that you give — that makes you happy.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending by Dunn & Norton Research on children’s happiness, gifts, and development (Chaplin & colleagues) ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Match the gift to your child’s age — material for younger kids, experiences as they grow. Add anticipation — reveal experiences with something they can hold or open. Share the moment — plan joint experiences for deeper connection and lasting happiness. Teach generosity — include simple opportunities for kids to give (even $5 makes a difference). Shift the focus — emphasise meaning, memory and togetherness over “more things”. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s the day. Australia’s new Social Media Minimum Age Legislation kicks in—and families everywhere are feeling everything from relief to panic. In this special episode, Justin is interviewed by “Intrepid Reporter Kylie” in a reenactment of a newsroom conversation that never got to air. You’ll hear what this ban actually means, how parents and teens are reacting, why the timing matters, and what families can do to keep kids connected, active, and thriving—without the algorithm pulling them in. Short, practical, reassuring. A must-listen for every parent navigating summer holidays and a new digital reality. KEY POINTS Why parent reactions have been overwhelmingly positive How teens really feel—and why some are secretly relieved What the legislation does and doesn’t block The truth about VPNs, fake IDs, and workarounds Why school holiday timing may actually be perfect How this ban affects connection, loneliness, and real-life friendships What platforms are age-restricted vs. still accessible Why messaging apps aren’t the same as social media How Justin & Kylie navigated the changes with their own teen The essential role parents still play (the ban doesn’t replace you!) QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “I’m not anti-screen. I’m pro living a full, balanced, whole, healthy life.” RESOURCES MENTIONED eSafety Social Media Hub – full details on the new minimum age legislation Platform list of age-restricted vs. permitted services happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Talk early and often about the changes rather than enforcing them cold. Shift the focus to real life: encourage outdoor time, friends over, hands-on activities. Check your child’s accounts together and deactivate any that are now age-restricted. Discuss messaging alternatives (not algorithm-driven). Stay engaged—the ban reduces risk but doesn’t remove screen challenges. Reassure your child that boredom is normal and survivable—and often the gateway to creativity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does Christmas feel so magical—and how can we bottle that feeling for our families? In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack the science behind Christmas joy and reveal the seven psychological drivers that make the season feel warm, connected, nostalgic, and full of wonder. From sensory anchors to collective effervescence, discover how small tweaks to your traditions can transform a stressful season into a slow, meaningful, joy-soaked one. This is your cheat-sheet to creating the kind of Christmas your kids will remember forever. KEY POINTS Relationships are the heart of Christmas—intentional togetherness boosts joy and belonging. Anticipated joy (hello Advent calendars) fuels dopamine and lifts mood weeks before the day arrives. Sensory anchoring—smells, sights, tastes—creates powerful nostalgia and emotional connection. Collective effervescence elevates community energy when everyone enters the same seasonal rhythm. Permission for wonder gives adults a rare chance to play, imagine, and embrace childlike magic. Savouring and gratitude turn small moments into the big memories our kids carry into adulthood. Applying these principles can fix a stressful or disappointing Christmas and make it joyful again. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Christmas is culturally sanctioned slowness—and if we savour it, the joy multiplies.” ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Prioritise connection over productivity—plan moments of slow, intentional togetherness. Create anticipation with rituals that build excitement (tree, lights, Advent, small traditions). Use sensory anchors—scents, recipes, music, decorations—to spark nostalgia and joy. Lean into wonder: play, imagine, and embrace the magic your kids already feel. Savour moments in real time—pause, breathe, and let the season be slow. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.