Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

What if the most powerful thing you can do as a parent… is let go? Today’s episode dives into one of the most radical and relieving ideas in parenting: trusting your child’s natural development. Drawing on powerful research from McGill University, Dr Justin explores why pushing less can actually lead to more—less stress, more confidence, fewer behavioural issues, and healthier relationships. Learn how to spot the traps of controlling parenting and discover the four key ingredients to raising capable, self-motivated kids—without the pressure. KEY POINTS The Research: A 2008 study by Landry et al. found that parents who trust their children’s natural development feel more competent, enjoy parenting more, and have children with fewer behaviour problems. Trust ≠ Permissive Parenting: It’s not about doing nothing—it’s about guiding without controlling, believing that your child has an innate drive to grow and learn. The Stress Trap of Controlling Parenting

Join us as we dive into the world of "Granny Core" — a charming, nostalgic approach to helping kids disconnect from screens by embracing slow, hands-on, screen-free hobbies. From knitting and baking to treehouse building and backyard adventures, this episode is packed with 20 timeless activities that promote creativity, connection, and calm. If you're tired of fighting the screen-time battle, this list is your new best friend. KEY POINTS: Why Screen-Free Matters: The overuse of screens is linked to increased anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and academic issues in kids. The Rise of Granny Core: A cultural trend that celebrates slow, traditional activities like knitting, gardening, and baking. Nostalgic Outdoor Play: Classic games like hopscotch, bike riding, and treehouse building help foster imagination and independence. Community & Connection: Group activities like game nights and neighbourhood breakfasts create meaningful relationships and combat isolation. Creative Projects: Activities such

In today’s Q&A episode, Elizabeth from Melbourne shares a heartbreaking concern: her 7-year-old son is engaging in inappropriate behaviours towards girls at school. We unpack this tricky topic with sensitivity and seriousness—discussing how to draw firm boundaries, have safe and open conversations, and when to seek professional help. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to respond when your child crosses a line, this episode will offer clarity, compassion, and practical tools. KEY POINTS: Normal Curiosity vs Concerning Behaviour: It’s typical for kids between ages 4–8 to explore gender and bodies—but behaviour like skirt-lifting and bottom-touching crosses a serious line. Immediate Action is Crucial: Clear, direct communication is needed. “Your body belongs to you. Other people’s bodies belong to them.” Teach Consent Early: Consent education starts with everyday interactions—asking before hugging, respecting personal space, and stopping when som

It's time to address the age-old question: Do children make us happy? Backed by powerful research and personal stories, Kylie and Justin explore the paradox of parenting—how our kids can simultaneously be our greatest joy and our biggest challenge. Featuring insights from happiness researchers like Daniel Kahneman, Paul Bloom, and Roy Baumeister, the conversation moves from exhaustion and conflict to purpose, meaning, and unconditional love. KEY POINTS: Research shows that parenting often decreases happiness and marital satisfaction, especially in the early years. Daniel Kahneman's study revealed mothers find time with kids less enjoyable than activities like watching TV or shopping—particularly during stressful mornings and evenings. Despite the challenges, most parents say they don't regret having children—why? Cultural and policy differences influence parental happiness across countries. Parenting isn’t primarily about happiness—it's about purpose, meaning, and deep emotional

Dr. Justin Coulson speaks with former Disney executive and GameTruck founder Scott Novis about the hidden dangers of video games—and how parents can help their kids develop a healthy relationship with gaming. From understanding addictive design to replacing screen time with real-world connection, this conversation delivers practical, real-world solutions for every family navigating the digital age. KEY POINTS Addiction by Design: Some game developers deliberately design games using the "hook algorithm" to exploit children’s brain development and keep them playing compulsively. Self-Determination vs. Hooked Gaming: Games built on autonomy, mastery, and relatedness (like Minecraft) build skills and confidence. Hooked games create craving, not satisfaction. 3 Hacks for Safer Gaming: Buy the game (don’t use free-to-play). Play offline (limits tracking and manipulation). Listen to how your child talks about the game (progress = good, frustration = red flag). Ending Game Time Without Conflict:

In this lighthearted episode of the Happy Families Podcast, we revisit some of the funniest and most unexpected things kids say when learning about where babies come from. Inspired by our interview last week with parenting educator Michelle Mitchell and her book Where Do Babies Come From?, we share some laugh-out-loud stories that remind us how curious—and hilarious—kids can be. We also reflect on the importance of connection, structure, and giving kids something to look forward to. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Let’s create our own purpose together.”— Justin Coulson, reflecting on how one dad helped his son rediscover joy and meaning through shared outdoor adventures. RESOURCES MENTIONED Michelle Mitchell's books: Where Do Babies Come From? The Girl's Guide to Puberty The Guy's Guide to Puberty Upcoming episode:Interview with Scott Novis, former VP at Disney, about managing kids and gaming without conflict (drops on Saturday!). ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Have the Talk&mdas

A major new report from the OECD has revealed shocking insights into how screen use is shaping children's lives—and not for the better. In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the disturbing statistics, explain the real-world impact of screens on kids’ mental health, relationships, and development, and offer practical, age-specific strategies to help parents take back control. From toddlers to teens, this is the digital wake-up call every parent needs. KEY POINTS Startling Stats: Aussie teens average 7 hours of screen time per day. 12% use screens more than 80 hours per week. 70% of 10-year-olds “own” smartphones. 60% of Australian girls report severe distress from cyberbullying. 4 Uncomfortable Truths for Parents: Real-world problems predict digital problems. Kids in distress offline turn to screens for escape. Most parents are fighting the wrong war. The issue is less about screen time and more about content and connection. It’s a bi-directional trap. Poor mental h

Is your child’s gaming habit harmless fun—or something more serious? In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share highlights from an eye-opening conversation with Scott Novis, a former Disney and Nintendo gaming executive. They discuss how modern games are designed to hook kids using sophisticated psychological techniques, what parents can do to support healthier habits, and the small shifts that make big differences in digital wellbeing. KEY POINTS The "Hooked Algorithm": Modern games use cues, unpredictable rewards, and psychological manipulation to drive compulsive use—especially among kids. Addiction Is by Design: Notifications, in-game incentives, and persistent online features are engineered to steal attention and limit agency. Console Games vs. Online Games: Games played offline on a console with a defined endpoint are less addictive than online, never-ending games. Digital Detox Strategies: Removing screens, increasing nature time, and focusing on physical activity can reset unhe

What do you do when every interaction with your child feels like a battle? Today we respond to a mum’s heartfelt question about her 11-year-old daughter, who is struggling with screaming, lying, and constant conflict. We explore the psychological needs behind difficult behaviour and share practical, compassionate strategies for rebuilding connection—especially when all you feel like doing is correcting. KEY POINTS Challenging Behaviour Is Communication: Kids act out when their basic needs—connection, autonomy, and competence—aren’t being met. The Correction Trap: When every interaction becomes about control or discipline, children feel unseen, unheard, and undervalued. Slow Down to Reconnect: Rebuilding the relationship requires presence, patience, and sometimes stepping completely away from “the agenda.” Parental Self-Awareness Matters: Many parents unintentionally undermine connection through well-meaning but misdirected responses. Lifestyle Matters: Sleep, nutriti

Is your child’s schedule packed from morning to night—or are they struggling with too much downtime? Today we explore the pressure parents feel to provide enrichment, the unintended consequences of overscheduling, and why finding the "sweet spot" of activities matters. Plus, we give practical, compassionate guidance to help families strike a healthy balance between stimulation, growth, and the simple joys of being a kid. KEY POINTS: The Pressure to Perform: Some communities foster competitive parenting cultures where success is measured by how "busy" and advanced kids are. Overscheduling Risks: Too many activities, especially at a young age, can lead to burnout, injury, anxiety, and screen dependence. The Value of Boredom: Downtime activates the brain’s default mode network, critical for identity formation and creativity. Joy Over Achievement: Extra-curriculars should feel like a highlight of the week—not a chore. Parental Motivations: Sometimes we push activities to validate our own

In this warm and essential conversation, Dr. Justin Coulson sits down with author, educator, and parenting expert Michelle Mitchell to explore how parents can navigate conversations around sex, puberty, consent, and identity with their children aged 8–12. Michelle shares insights from her book Where Do Babies Come From?, offering parents practical tools to talk about tricky topics with clarity, confidence, and compassion. KEY POINTS: Parents often feel unsure or awkward when kids ask about sex, reproduction, or body changes—but avoiding the topic can lead to misinformation and anxiety. Michelle's book is written for kids aged 8–12 and includes age-appropriate detail, wraparound values, and medical illustrations to provide clarity and context. Talking about sex should include conversations about respect, emotional intimacy, and consent—not just the mechanics. Children benefit from being book “bosses”—given agency and choice about how, when, and with whom to learn this

Sometimes, the best thing we can do for our family… is slow down. In this reflective I’ll Do Better Tomorrow episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share the power of pausing, being present, and choosing connection over control. From Sunday night beach walks to heartfelt conversations with teenage daughters, this episode is a gentle reminder that the simple moments matter most. KEY POINTS: Presence > Productivity. Slowing down, ditching the schedule, and being together—like a spontaneous walk after dinner—can be the reset your family needs. Connection is the goal. Whether you're navigating tough teen years or sharing a sunset, strong relationships grow from time, conversation, and attention. Repair matters more than perfection. Every parent will make mistakes. What counts is how we acknowledge, repair, and grow through them. Children are wired to connect. They want close relationships with us. Our job is to not let ego or defensiveness get in the way. Grace + ownership = healing. When

Why are so many girls struggling with anxiety, low mood, and poor mental health—and why are they starting to think it’s normal? In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack recent UK research that asked teen girls themselves what's causing their distress. The answers are confronting: gender expectations, academic pressure, toxic friendships, and social media. But there’s hope. This episode offers real parenting solutions to help our girls thrive. KEY POINTS: Girls are normalising poor mental health. That’s not okay. We need to intervene early with meaningful support and connection. Narrow gender expectations hurt. Whether they lean into “girly” or “tomboy,” girls feel judged either way. Let them follow their authentic interests, not societal labels. Academic pressure is intense. Many girls feel they must succeed and that failing means they’re a failure. That belief is contributing to rising anxiety. Friendships can be fraught. J

When your 8-year-old asks, “Where do babies come from?” how do you respond—without panicking? In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share a sneak peek from an upcoming full interview with parenting author Michelle Mitchell about how to answer kids’ trickiest questions around procreation, intimacy, and consent. With warmth and practical wisdom, this conversation helps you feel more confident about when to talk, what to say, and how to create safe, shame-free conversations at every age. KEY POINTS: Start early and keep it simple. Naming body parts from a young age normalises these conversations and lays the foundation for later discussions about intimacy and consent. It’s never one big talk—it’s lots of little ones. Open, ongoing conversations build trust and make it easier for your child to ask more questions over time. You don’t need to get it perfect—just talk. Whether your style is open and casual or more private and reserved, what matters is that y

In today’s Tricky Questions episode, Justin and Kylie answer Kim’s heartfelt question: How do we raise young adult males and stay connected when we don’t agree with their choices? Whether your son is 16 or 26, this episode is full of practical, compassionate advice about letting go of control, nurturing connection, and guiding your son’s journey into manhood without damaging the relationship. KEY POINTS: Independence is the goal. Young men need to pull away to become their own person. This is healthy and expected development—not defiance. Connection > Control. Every attempt to correct or direct your young adult without enough relational “water in the bucket” weakens your influence. Prioritise staying close. Rites of passage matter. Boys don’t just “become men” by aging—they seek experiences to prove themselves. Without intentional guidance, they’ll create risky alternatives (like Schoolies, binge drinking, etc.). Defer respectfully. A

Last week Justin and Kylie discussed Chappell Roan's recent claim that everyone she knows who has kids is miserable.  Listen to episode #1245 - Mothers & Happiness In light of this, we thought we'd replay episode #1072 - an interview with journalist Angela Mollard about an article where she asked if parenting needs a PR job.  The link to that article is in the notes below. Journalist Angela Mollard writes that "[a]n age of confession and vulnerability has seen parenting rebranded as a challenging, joyless, expensive, and freedom-sapping decision. They forgot the awesome bits." On the podcast today, Angela chats with Justing about finding the joy in parenting, the importance of perspective and gratitude, and why we must speak of the great parts of parenthood—because although parenting is hard, it's absolutely worth it! In this episode: The vulnerabilities VS the joys of parenting Parenting needs a PR job? Blame the mummy bloggers | Angela Mollard | The Daily Telegraph Finding fulfilmen

In this episode of I’ll Do Better Tomorrow, Justin and Kylie share two powerful parenting wins from their week—one about holding firm with limits and another about letting go with trust. Together, they reflect on how boundaries, autonomy, and persistence are essential ingredients in helping children grow into capable, responsible decision-makers. KEY POINTS: Children need clear, consistent boundaries—especially when it comes to expectations and screen time. Limits may be met with resistance, but they help children develop resilience and internal motivation. Giving children autonomy over their food choices (within a supportive structure) can lead to lasting learning and healthier habits. Parenting isn’t about eliminating struggle—it’s about guiding our kids through it, patiently and consistently. Trust the long game: small wins add up over time. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “Once you do the hard stuff, then you get to do the good stuff.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: Explore&

We take a deep dive into the increasingly visible “furry” phenomenon among young people. What is it? Why is it happening? And most importantly, how should parents respond? From identity development to mental health concerns, online risks, and compassionate parenting strategies, this episode tackles the hard questions with clarity and care. KEY POINTS: Furries are individuals who adopt animal identities ("fursonas"), often through costumes, behaviours, or online personas. The trend is increasingly visible in schools and online, often linked with broader identity and mental health issues. Studies show high rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among those identifying as furries. The furry community may offer temporary escape and affirmation, but it often delays deeper emotional work. Online spaces often amplify and affirm furriness, making digital monitoring essential. Role-play is a central component, particularly attractive to neurodiverse young people seeking to manage anxiety. Str

How do you juggle a high-powered global career and single motherhood — and still show up for your child with presence and purpose? In this inspiring episode, Justin speaks with Sarah Armstrong, Vice President of Global Marketing Operations at Google and author of The Art of the Juggling Act: A Bite-Sized Guide for Working Parents. Sarah shares practical insights on setting boundaries, overcoming mum guilt, building a support network, and navigating divorce with grace — all while raising a well-rounded daughter. KEY POINTS: Setting and protecting boundaries is critical to successful work-family balance. Communicating your boundaries to others is as important as establishing them. Mum guilt is real — but grace and self-talk like “I’m doing the best I can” help reframe it. A solid support system — whether formal or informal — is essential for working parents. Children benefit from being included in adult conversations and exposed to diverse role models. A “g

What do you do when your child comes home from the other parent’s house completely dysregulated—tantrums, tears, and turmoil? In this episode, Justin and Kylie respond to a heartfelt question from a grandparent caring for her four-year-old grandson. Together, they explore why these transitions are so tough, what’s really going on beneath the surface, and how to create calm, connection, and consistency after a disruptive change in environment. KEY POINTS: Transition distress is common for kids moving between homes, especially in co-parenting situations. Tantrums are not misbehaviour—they’re a child’s way of saying, “I’m overwhelmed and don’t know how to cope.” Emotional storms after change can be a sign of trust—kids release emotions where they feel safest. A “transition toolkit” can soften the landing when children return from the other parent’s house. Predictable routines, consistent rituals, and physical or em