Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

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 offers inspiration to help you do better tomorrow. In this episode: Parenting teenagers Teens & screens Relationship bucket Focusing on the negative vs finding the positives in relationships #148 Flecks of Gold Intentional 1-1 time with each child Kids spell love T.I.M.E Related Links: Building Strong Parent-Child Connections That Last Miss-Connection Webinar (Why Your Teenage Daughter “Hates” You, Expects the World, and Needs to Talk) Intentional vs. Unintentional Parenting  Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Campbell of Euka Freedom, flexibility & tailored learning Challenges - financial constraints, socialisation, expectations De-schooling Unrealistic expectations Connection with friends Related Links: How to Help when School Sucks #405 The Homeschool Parent - Deb #1038 - Managing Emotional Dysregulation Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Consent | consent.gov.au Normalised sexual violence Pornography Consent Laid Bare: Sex, Entitlement & the Distortion of Desire by Chanel Contos Educating parents & teachers Age-appropriate conversations Respect, boundaries & removing shame Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800 13YARN Australia | For First Nation Australians - 13 92 76 Related Links: Sex, Consent & Staying Safe [Webinar] #217 The Age of Consent with Rebecca Sparrow Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 empower families and to protect our children.  In this episode: Impact of social media on youth mental health Age restrictions for social media Balancing online independence & safety Forming alliances among families (The Heads Up Alliance, Unplug Childhood) Algorithms Holding social media accountable Social Kung Fu - equipping kids with verbal & cyber self-defence skills Code of conduct with devices Related Links: 5 Ways to Set Screen Time Limits With Your Children Unplugged Parenthood: Reducing Screen Time to Strengthen Family Connections The Screen Smart Series Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Emma Watkins - Audible Book Related links: Self Care Strategies That Really Work Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Robots movie Making bids for connection Tough love Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 activity, screen time & sleep Study reveals most three and four-year-olds don’t get enough exercise or sleep, but too much screen time | The West Australian School mobile phone bans ‘Protecting a generation’: School phone bans pass the test | The Daily Telegraph  Smacking harms child development Negative effects of childhood spanking may be overstated, study claims | NY Post Study published in the Marriage & Family Review Data vs morality & philosophy The Parenting Revolution by Dr Justin Coulson Related Links: Why It’s Not Ok To Smack Your Kids Unplug Childhood #1060 - No Hang-Ups With School Phone Bans  Screen Time Guidelines Updated for the Touchscreen Generation  Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 King and Rebecca Sparrow Common struggles of ND kids Undiagnosed girls Masking & camouflaging Lack of training & resources in schools 3 basic psychological needs Parent-school partnerships Homeschooling Tips for ND kids starting a new school Related Links: Supporting Autistic Children [The Course]  Help For The ADHD Parent Championing Neurodiversity Webinar One-Minute Wellbeing: Fifty Quick Tips for Educators  Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Fostering deep connections with your child Related Links: I Work Full-time. How do I Connect With my Kids? Building Strong Parent-Child Connections That Last Miss-Connection | 7 Day Connection Challenge Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Boundaries Peer pressure Responsible drinking Consent "Strong and safe" Related Links: 5 Essential Conversations to Have with Your Teen Before Schoolies #886 Get Set for Schoolies With Paul Dillon Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"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 Paradox Why small annoyances can harm us more than big disruptions  | PSYCHE Parenting implications of ignoring minor behaviours Psychological toll on parents Importance of empathy and emotional regulation in responding to children Solutions for parents Self-care and setting boundaries Avoiding screens Related Links:  How to Respond When Triggered by Your Child Self-Care Strategies That Really Work Overwhelm: Self-care Strategies for When Everything is Too Much [Webinar] Why Our Kids Need Us to Set Limits Unplugged Parenthood: Reducing Screen Time to Strengthen Family Connections Developmental Milestones: What to Expect From Birth to Adulthood Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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? Verbal, physical, repeated, cyber-bullying Having conversations with your kids Emotions Feeling seen, heard, valued Encouraging empathy and "upstanding" behaviour  What to do when bullying happens When to involve other parents Related Links:  Stop the Bully: Proven Strategies to Empower Your Child, with Dr Justin Coulson | The Parenting Couch Podcast  Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.au  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*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 trusting parent-child relationship Developmental appropriate behaviour Girlfriend/boyfriend in primary school Guidance on sensitive conversations Steps for addressing friend's behaviour Age-appropriate education on bodies, boundaries, consent Empowering children Ongoing vigilance and support Related Links:  Should our Young Children have Boyfriends or Girlfriends at School? #1071 – Body Boundaries With Jayneen Sanders 7 Strategies For When Your Child Accidentally Finds Pornography #898 Porn-Proofing Your Kids with Kristen Jenson Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.au  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do our kids seem like they're never listening, no matter how many times we repeat ourselves?  Today, we share nine practical strategies that can help you to communicate more effectively with your kids, reduce those frustrating moments, and strengthen family connections... without repeating yourself over and over (and over!) again. In this episode: Why repeating instructions doesn’t work Common misunderstandings between parents and kids How to improve communication Related Links: What To Do When Kids Won’t Listen How to Get Your Kids to Really Listen [Ebook + AudioBook] Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The secret ingredient every child craves for feeling loved and understood is their parent's undivided time and attention. Discover why making small sacrifices in your busy schedule to connect with your kids can have a profound impact on your relationship with them. In this episode: Halloween Fathers of Girls QLD politics & corporal punishment Kylie's riding, Justin's writing Love is spelt T.I.M.E Making time for the things that matter most Intentional connection Don't miss the final intake for our Supporting Autistic Children Course with Dr Justin Coulson & Dr Joey Lawrence Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Halloween can be an equal mix of excitement for the kids and chaos for parents, right? And finding a balance between our children's desire for independence (to have fun, to explore, and to eat ALL the sugar) whilst maintaining a sense of safety is a challenge. We share some practical tips to help make Halloween meaningful for your family, from building community connections to teaching social skills, plus some fun twists on the classic trick-or-treat! 🎃👻 In this episode: Balancing fun & safety for kids Setting boundaries & rules Alternative Halloween celebrations Trunk-or-treat Cultural differences (gore vs fun) Community & family bonding Teaching social skills and life lessons Related Links: An Australian Halloween Worried about too much sugar? Some helpful tips from 'Kids Eat In Color' Don't miss the final intake for our Supporting Autistic Children Course with Dr Justin Coulson & Dr Joey Lawrence Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is homeschooling right for your family? A rising number of Australian parents are questioning if this alternative path could truly work for them and their children’s unique needs.  We delve into the realities of homeschooling with Brett Campbell, CEO of Australia’s largest homeschooling provider, Euka, as he shares insights, data, and tips that could transform the way you think about your child’s education. In this episode: Top reasons for homeschooling Flexible schedule Socialisation Finding community University Pathway – Grade 11 & 12 Options Future Learners Podcast Misconceptions about homeschooling Related Links:  #1042 – Work & Home School Life Balance How to Help when School Sucks #503 - Home Schooling 101 Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.au  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are the classic birth order stereotypes of the responsible eldest, the overlooked middle child, and the free-spirited youngest really grounded in science—or are we just buying into myths? Join us as we unpack the surprising research behind these family labels and discover what truly shapes your child’s personality, beyond their place in the sibling lineup. In this episode: Birth order stereotypes What your sibling birth order does—and doesn’t—explain | VOX Birth Order Theory - Alfred Adler Gender roles & family dynamics Family size, age gaps, & unique circumstances Confirmation bias Personality traits & birth order Avoiding rigid labels Supporting Autistic Children Course with Dr Justin Coulson & Dr Joey Lawrence Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three news stories for 'This Week in Parenting': Is your phone getting in the way of quality time with your kids? Research shows that when parents are glued to their devices, children are more likely to struggle with anxiety, depression, and attention issues! A proposal to replace team sports with yoga and pilates in Victorian schools raises concerns about the balance between physical activity and academic focus. Plus, why homeschooling is booming in QLD! In this episode: Parents Distracted By Smartphones Linked To Higher Anxiety In Kids | Forbes Negative impact on child development Being intentional with screen use Feeling seen, heard & valued Private schools ditch footy for yoga in APS shake-up  | Herald Sun Mindfulness Team sports & competition Sedentary learning Home-schooling explosion in Qld fed by bullied children | The Courier Mail Related Links: #1107 - This Week in Parenting: Roblox Hell & Parental Health Hazards  Our Phones Are Wrecking Us Supporting Autistic Children Course with Dr Justin Coulson & Dr Joey Lawrence Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to podcasts@happyfamilies.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.