What will your kids remember most about you? It’s probably not what you think… Ever felt Father’s Day pressure - the gifts, the expectations, the hope it all comes together? In this episode, Justin & Kylie open up about low expectations, the best Father’s Day prank ever, and the moments that mattered most. From frisbee at the beach to chaotic family games, to the one phrase Justin’s kids say defined their childhood, this conversation is raw, funny, and surprisingly moving. KEY POINTS: Why one Aussie school pushed back against iPads in primary years Sabrina Carpenter’s new album NOT for children The tie prank that left every dad at church matching Why simple, spontaneous family time beats curated “perfect” events “Push Dad off the Bed” - the family game still loved by teens and young adults The phrase Justin’s kids treasure most: People matter. Things don’t. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Happy Families Website Send us a voice memo: podcasts@happyfamilies.com.au KPop Demon Hunters on Netflix ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Keep celebrations simple - the memories matter more than the details. Find playful traditions (even silly ones) that bring everyone together. When things go wrong, remind your kids: people matter, things don’t. Give your children more of the one gift they’ll always want - your time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When cookbook author and influencer Sarah’s holiday plans with her 6-year-old were suddenly stamped “unauthorised,” it lit up headlines — and sparked a question every parent asks: Is a week off school really that big a deal? In this episode, Justin and Kylie dive into the tug-of-war between school rules and family priorities. Do term-time holidays harm learning, or can real-life experiences sometimes matter more? You’ll hear the research, the rules (state by state), and the reality for families just trying to make it work. KEY POINTS The viral story that sparked the debate: Sarah’s denied leave mid-flight. Why rules vary wildly depending on your postcode (NSW vs. QLD vs. VIC). What the research really says about missing school — even just a few days. The cost factor: why many families can’t afford school-holiday travel. When family connection, culture, and life experience outweigh the timetable. Practical tips for working with schools to find a middle ground. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE "The real question isn’t about holidays — it’s whether we trust parents to make wise, nuanced decisions for their kids." – Justin Coulson RESOURCES MENTIONED Happy Families Website Connect with us on Instagram & Facebook ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Check your state’s rules before booking — policies differ widely. Communicate early and respectfully with your child’s school. Choose timing wisely (avoid early weeks, assessment blocks, or transition times). Weigh family priorities — cost, connection, cultural experiences — alongside school routines. Remember the big picture: One week doesn’t define your child’s education. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
School refusal and absence are at crisis levels. More than 40% of students are missing at least 10% of school days — and it’s only getting worse. Behind every statistic is a child struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, or the weight of a system that doesn’t fit. In this powerful conversation, Dr Justin Coulson speaks with Megan Gilmour, CEO of Missing School and 2025 ACT Australian of the Year. Megan’s own son battled a life-threatening illness that kept him from school for years, and her advocacy has since transformed the way we think about education, connection, and support for kids who can’t physically be in the classroom. If you’re worried about your child’s school avoidance — whether from illness, anxiety, or overwhelm — this episode will give you both hope and practical direction. KEY POINTS: Why school absence has skyrocketed since COVID. The hidden costs of missing school: academics, friendships, identity, and mental health. How school avoidance affects the whole family. What digital connection and flexible solutions can look like for struggling students. Why the current school model isn’t fit for today’s kids — and what needs to change. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Wherever school absence starts — illness, anxiety, or overwhelm — the long-term impacts on a child’s wellbeing and future are profound. Connection is everything.” – Megan Gilmour RESOURCES MENTIONED: Missing School School Refusal [HF Article] #533 Emotion Based School Avoidance [HF Podcast Episode] ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Notice the early signs of school avoidance — and take them seriously. Keep the focus on connection, not just attendance. Explore flexible options, including digital classroom access, where possible. Seek support: schools can and must accommodate differences. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do you do when your child’s confidence starts to look like bragging? Today’s tricky parenting question comes from Joanna, whose 12-year-old daughter is bright, kind, and wonderfully self-assured—but sometimes her enthusiasm feels a little too much. In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack how to nurture confidence while gently guiding kids toward humility and social awareness. You’ll hear practical ways to help your child celebrate others, avoid “showing off,” and learn through natural experiences—without squashing their spirit. KEY POINTS: Why confidence in tweens is precious (and why most kids lose it) The difference between being “interesting” vs. being “interested” Teaching kids to be “people builders” instead of show-offs The power of teachable moments over lectures How unconditional love helps kids learn from their own mistakes QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Confidence is precious. We don’t want to dampen it—but we can guide kids to use it in ways that lift others up.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: Submit your tricky question: happyfamilies.com.au/podcasts ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Celebrate your child’s confidence—don’t squash it. Encourage them to notice and cheer for others’ successes. Use quiet, reflective conversations after social moments as teaching opportunities. Frame discussions around being a good friend and including others. Be the “soft place to land” when friendships hit bumps. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Childcare scandals. Social media bans. Kids spending nine hours a day glued to screens. As Child Protection Week shines a spotlight on children’s safety, parents are asking: How do I really protect my kids — both online and in real life? Dr Justin Coulson speaks with Dr Katrina Lines, CEO of Act for Kids, about shocking new research and simple ways families can protect kids online and in real life. KEY POINTS: Why removing men from childcare is not the solution — and what really needs to change. Surprising new research: kids actually prefer time with family over screens. Why kids resist screen limits but thrive when they finally log off. How to “meet in the middle” by joining kids in their online world. Preparing your family for the upcoming social media age ban. Simple daily strategies to create real-life connection, even in busy households. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “This is the important stuff — not the cooking, not the laundry — but listening and being present with our kids.” — Dr Katrina Lines RESOURCES MENTIONED: Act for Kids: Let’s Connect IRL Happy Families Resources ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Create small daily “connection moments” — in the car, over dinner, or while cooking. Join your child occasionally in their online world to build trust and safety. Open conversations now about the upcoming social media age ban — listen, don’t dismiss. Plan one weekly family activity that everyone can look forward to. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From Father’s Day feels to Taylor Swift’s big news, Roblox lawsuits, and the surprising lessons hidden in K-Pop Demon Hunters—this Friday episode is packed. Plus, in I’ll Do Better Tomorrow, we get raw about surrender, parenting guilt, and why kids really do spell love T-I-M-E. KEY POINTS: Father’s Day joy (and the best gift dads actually want) Taylor Swift’s engagement & what it’s sparking worldwide Roblox under fire: lawsuits, safety concerns & why parents should care K-Pop Demon Hunters craze—what kids love & what families can learn “I’ll Do Better Tomorrow”: surrendering control, parenting while overworked, and finding peace in presence RESOURCES: Free Father's Day Download: 'Me & My Dad' Activity Book ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Celebrate Father’s Day with connection, not things—walks, hugs, shared meals. Stay alert to Roblox news; check your child’s settings and talk about online safety. If your kids are into K-Pop Demon Hunters, watch it with them—ask what they love and listen. Reflect: where can you let go of control and lean into connection this week? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From the Doctor's Desk today we unpack three studies relevant to parents and families. First, an intervention that could decrease the likelihood of developing a peanut allergy by 71% (N.B. we are not sharing medical advice!). The second study - another intervention involving a 2-week screen-free media reduction for participants, with fantastic results! And the third, a study looking at differences between neurotypical and neurodivergent responses to touch, and some helpful tips for parents of neurodivergent children when it comes to understanding and navigating these responses. In this episode: Peanut allergies The danger of becoming risk-adverse Screen Media Use and Mental Health of Children and Adolescents: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial | Media and Youth | JAMA Network Open A happier child in 2 weeks? Emotional dysregulation Parental responsibility with screens Follow-up to Adolescence after Early Peanut Introduction for Allergy Prevention | NEJM Evidence Why touch matters Sensory issues, autism Differences in neurodivergent vs neurotypical response to touch Consent Autonomic and hedonic response to affective touch in autism spectrum disorder - Capiotto - 2024 - Autism Research - Wiley Online Library Relevant Links: Tech giants are ANTI-kids Unplug Childhood - join the village today #1016 – From The Doctor’s Desk: Touch Good, Anger Bad Find us on Facebook Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Exams, ATARs, scaling, university preferences—no wonder Year 12 feels overwhelming. But what if success doesn’t come down to one number? In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson is joined by careers counsellor Amy Dyer to unpack the myths around scaling, ATAR pressure, gap years, trades, and vocational pathways. If your teen feels lost—or if you’re a parent caught in the stress—this conversation will help you breathe easier and see the bigger picture. KEY POINTS: Scaling and ATARs: what really matters (and what doesn’t). Achievement, capability, enjoyment - what is success? Burnout in young people after school Why a gap year can be the best choice for mental health and clarity. The hidden value of vocational studies and trade careers. How to help kids define success beyond exam scores. Why parents should focus on fit, not prestige, when guiding school and career choices. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:“You’re not supposed to know. You just try. Just be productive. Just do something.” — Dr Justin Coulson RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Amy Dyer More parenting support: happyfamilies.com.au Check out our "Failed at School, Successful at Life" podcast series [episodes #875-879] ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Start conversations about learning styles and interests - not just grades. Normalise multiple pathways: university, TAFE, trades, or gap years. Reduce pressure by reminding your teen that life doesn’t hinge on a single number. Create safe spaces at home for career and study discussions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Everyone else has one!” If you’ve ever heard this plea from your tween about getting a smartphone, you’re not alone. In today’s Q&A episode, Justin and Kylie unpack one dad’s dilemma: a 12-year-old desperate for a phone, parents holding out until Year 8, and the daily battles in between. You’ll hear why one big conversation won’t work, how to keep your child engaged without caving, and three practical strategies to hold the line without losing connection. KEY POINTS Why no single conversation will “solve” the phone debate The 3 E’s of effective discipline (Explore, Explain, Empower) How to use outside voices (content creators, school assignments) to make the case Why it helps to talk with other parents — your child isn’t always “the only one” The ongoing reality: even once they get a phone, the battles don’t stop QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “You don’t just get compliance when kids understand your decision — you get buy-in.” RESOURCES MENTIONED The Parenting Revolution by Dr Justin Coulson Content creators: Jonathan Haidt, Official Herd, Dr Brad Marshall (“The Unplugged Psychologist”), Freya India [Study] Blocking mobile internet on smartphones improves sustained attention, mental health, and subjective well-being The Heads Up Alliance - Australian families delaying social media and smartphones for children, together Wait Until 8th Rebecca Sparrow's FREE download "Beginner Phones for Tweens and Teens" ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Keep the conversations ongoing — not one-and-done. Use external voices and resources to reinforce your message. Encourage your child to research and present arguments for and against screens. Connect with other parents to reality-check the “everyone else has one” claim. Focus on understanding and buy-in, not just rules. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why can’t kids just calm down? Here’s the truth: they’re not supposed to. Expecting children to manage their emotions alone is like expecting them to drive a car before they’ve learned to walk. In this episode, Justin and Kylie bust the biggest parenting myth about big feelings — and share 3 powerful, science-backed strategies you can use in the heat of the moment to help your child ride the emotional waves. KEY POINTS Kids’ brains are on “L-plates” when it comes to emotion regulation — it’s a developmental process. Big feelings are normal, not a sign of “bad behaviour.” Three strategies parents can use: Distraction – helps reset the nervous system. Co-regulation – lending your calm to your child. Pause problem-solving – wait until emotions settle before teaching or fixing. Parents often feel judged when meltdowns happen in public — but compassion (for ourselves and our kids) is the game-changer. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “No one can think clearly in a fire drill — and that’s exactly what trying to reason with a child mid-meltdown is like.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Happy Families resources for parenting strategies & support Little People, Big Feelings Summit See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a child is upset or angry, it’s easy to think their outburst is about the immediate problem. The real challenge for parents is identifying the deeper emotions driving these reactions. Kylie shares a conversation with her daughter that started as a fight over Roblox but ended with heartfelt tears over a completely different issue. By taking the time to talk with our kids, we can help them uncover the true reasons behind their strong feelings. In this episode: Play dates & Roblox 14 reasons why.... Homeschooling Need for connection Hindenburg Research: Roblox Roblox - a tool for sexual predators The 3 Es of Effective Discipline: Explore, Explain, and Empower Related Links: Keeping kids safe on Roblox Why Your Kids Need a Tribe 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.
Every school talks about teaching mental health, but is it actually helping kids? Or could some programs be doing more harm than good? In this episode, Justin unpacks the latest research on school-based mental health lessons — what works, what doesn’t, and why good intentions aren’t always enough. If you’ve ever wondered whether your child is really benefiting from these classes, this is the conversation you need to hear. KEY POINTS Why mental health lessons don’t always translate into healthier kids The risk of programs that label or pathologise normal emotions What research really shows about long-term impact How parents and teachers can support mental wellbeing in practical, everyday ways QUOTE OF THE EPISODE "We can’t just teach kids about mental health in theory — we have to live it with them in practice." RESOURCES MENTIONED Happy Families Website https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/may/20/mental-health-lessons-school-dont-work-mindfulness ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Ask your child what they really think about mental health classes at school. Focus on daily connection — listening, empathy, and open conversations. Model healthy coping strategies at home rather than relying only on school programs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Boys today are struggling — with school, with purpose, with identity. At the same time, parents are being told that masculinity is toxic — or irrelevant. Are we accidentally raising a generation of young men who feel lost before they’ve even begun? And how do we raise boys who are strong, kind, and confident without making them feel like they’re not enough? In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack one of the most provocative ideas in parenting boys: surplus value. Drawing on research from Richard Reeves, Scott Galloway, and David Gilmore, they explore why contribution and purpose matter so much for boys’ identity, how to frame it in a healthy way, and why ignoring it leaves our sons vulnerable to destructive alternatives. KEY POINTS Why boys often tie identity to what they contribute rather than just who they are. The difference between unconditional worth at home and purpose in the world. How “surplus value” is not about pressure, but about channeling natural drives into positive contribution. Why society has always “made men” through responsibility and service — and why our boys still need this today. How to talk about contribution without undermining your son’s self-worth. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Being useful helps boys feel valuable — not because they’re not enough, but because they’re capable of great things.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Of Boys and Men by Richard Reeves Manhood in the Making by David Gilmore Sign up for updates on Justin’s upcoming book Boys → https://happyfamilies.com.au/boys-book-waitlist ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Reassure your son daily: “You matter because you are you.” Create opportunities for him to contribute at home in age-appropriate ways. Talk about purpose and contribution as part of becoming a man — not as pressure, but as an invitation. Watch for signs of directionlessness in the teen years and help channel energy into positive pathways. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is it ever safe to let your 11- or 12-year-old walk to the park, ride their bike, or visit a friend without you? For many parents, just the thought makes the stomach clench. But here’s the twist: the riskiest thing might be never letting kids take risks at all. In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the independence dilemma that defines modern parenting. You’ll hear why today is the safest time in history for children (despite our fears), how to balance risk and safety, and the practical steps that build confidence — in both kids and parents. KEY POINTS: The difference between danger and risk — and why it matters. Why 24/7 news and social media fuel parental anxiety. How staged independence builds resilience and confidence. The power of community connections in keeping kids safe. Teaching situational awareness instead of “stranger danger.” RESOURCES: More parenting resources at happyfamilies.com.au The Case For Risky Play in an Age of Overprotection [Article] #1198 The Worst Mother Who Got it Right [Podcast Episode]See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A viral trend called “FAFO parenting” is exploding on TikTok and even making headlines in the Wall Street Journal. Advocates say it’s the antidote to “soft” parenting — let kids fuss around and find out the hard way. But is this tough-love comeback really preparing kids for life or setting them up for harm? In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack the hype, the dangers, and the research-backed alternative every parent needs to hear. In this episode: What FAFO (“Fuss Around and Find Out”) parenting actually looks like — and why it’s trending The three big claims FAFO parents make Why FAFO backfires The vital difference between natural consequences and manufactured hardships How “need-supportive parenting” builds resilience without breaking trust QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Discipline isn’t about hurting kids to prove a point. It’s about problem-solving so they can discover the lesson.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Wall Street Journal article on FAFO parenting (subscription required) Alfie Kohn, Punished by Rewards More parenting resources: happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Resist the temptation to outsource learning to punishment. When mistakes happen, guide your child through problem-solving instead of powerplays. Protect the parent–child relationship — resilience grows best where trust is strong. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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 moments Value of side-by-side conversations Impact of being fully present vs autopilot parenting How structured time leads to deeper conversations Quote of the Episode: "The definition of love is bearing witness to one another's lives." Key Insights: Advance planning makes experiences more meaningful Side-by-side activities encourage natural conversation Removing distractions deepens connection Multiple possible futures reduce anxiety about paths Intentional time creates space for vulnerable conversations Resources Mentioned: Laura King's research on "best possible future self" Monthly birthday date system concept Broaden perspectives on career/life paths Calendar blocking for intentional connection Action Steps for Parents: Schedule Monthly Dates: Mark each child's birth date on calendar Plan activities in advance Make them non-negotiable appointments Customise for each child's interests Create Quality Experiences: Remove distractions (phones, etc.) Choose side-by-side activities Allow natural conversation flow Make it special but not elaborate Be Fully Present: Practice active listening Avoid problem-solving mode Focus on connection over correction Create space for deeper sharing See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Private school rankings are splashed across the headlines, and parents everywhere are left asking: Am I failing my child if I stay public? With fees soaring above $45,000 a year, the pressure is real — but what does the research actually say? In this episode, Justin and Kylie cut through the marketing hype to reveal what truly matters for your child’s learning and wellbeing — and why “better” doesn’t always mean what you think. KEY POINTS The truth about test scores What parents are really buying with high fees Why teachers matter more than facilities or class size The “proximity principle”: belonging, friendships, and community trump prestige How investing school fees differently could transform your child’s future QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “You can’t buy inspiration. It’s not about school fees — it’s about the teacher who lights up your child’s curiosity.” RESOURCES Research on school belonging (Kelly & Allen, University of Melbourne) https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/school-life/singlesex-schools-as-australias-top-100-private-schools-named/news-story/78fc2ed6b3807cbf6f44035d768c5c87 Harvard economist Raj Chetty’s study on teacher impact See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you get kids to love reading in a world of screens and short attention spans? In this warm and practical conversation, Dr Justin Coulson sits down with one of Australia’s most beloved authors — and current Children’s Laureate — Sally Rippin. Together they explore why connection matters more than comprehension, how to support struggling readers, and the simple, joyful ways families can bring books back to life at home. You’ll hear: Why “all kids can be readers” (even reluctant ones) How neuroscience is changing the way we teach reading The role of modelling and family rituals in raising readers Why choice and curiosity keep kids engaged The surprising power of reading together — at any age QUOTE OF THE EPISODE“There’s no better way to help kids fall in love with reading than for them to fall in love with you while you read together.” – Dr Justin Coulson RESOURCES Sally Rippin, Australian Children’s Laureate Sally’s books: School of Monsters, Billy B. Brown, and more Interview with Sally: A Rippin Good Read Happy Families See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do you say to a child who’s lost multiple loved ones and now lies awake, terrified of death? In this deeply compassionate episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack why repeated loss can create overwhelming bedtime anxiety, why it peaks when the lights go out, and the simple, research-backed ways parents can help. You’ll learn how to create safety, connection, and rituals that bring comfort — without minimising their grief or making false promises. KEY POINTS Multiple losses and cumulative grief Why bedtime can trigger fears Connection and presence over quick fixes or false assurances Following your child’s lead How to create closure for your child QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “What your child needs most isn’t for their fear to disappear — it’s to feel truly seen and understood in it.” – Dr Justin Coulson RESOURCES Understanding Grief in Children - Sage Journals Studies on the default mode network and bedtime anxiety Helping Kids Cope with Grief - a Conversation with Kristy Thomas Cumulative Grief - Dr Bill Webster The Journey of the Default Mode Network: Development, Function, and Impact on Mental Health ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Make bedtime a safe, calming ritual. Be present in the moment. Follow their emotional lead. Use comfort objects. Create closure rituals. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your child says, “I want to quit.” Soccer. Piano. Swimming. Art. Should you let them? There’s a magic confidence threshold in every skill - and most kids give up just before they reach it. In this episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack why kids quit, the role of motivation and relationships, and how to help them push through frustration without forcing them into misery. You’ll learn how to balance empathy with encouragement so your child develops grit, resilience, and the joy of mastery. KEY POINTS Every skill has a “confidence threshold” — the point where hard work starts to feel rewarding. Kids often want to quit in the “valley” before reaching this threshold. Motivation matters: autonomy and relationships increase persistence. Plateaus in progress are normal and often occur right before breakthroughs. Distress tolerance is a life skill - avoiding discomfort robs kids of resilience-building experiences. Angela Duckworth’s “Don’t quit on a hard day” rule helps kids make decisions in a calm emotional state. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “When we rescue kids from every struggle, we rob them of the chance to discover they’re more resilient than they think.” – Dr Justin Coulson RESOURCES MENTIONED Angela Duckworth’s research on grit The Dunedin Study Dr Justin Coulson’s “Anti-Fragile” resilience keynotes ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Check the motivation – Was this activity your child’s choice or yours? Aim for the threshold – Encourage them to reach basic competence before deciding to quit. Build social connections – Support involvement where friendships are part of the activity. Talk about plateaus – Normalise slow progress and help them see it’s temporary. Adopt the “hard day” rule – No quitting right after a loss or tough session. Sit with discomfort – Model staying calm and present when challenges arise. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.