Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Reflecting on 1000 episodes of Australia’s leading parenting podcast, we cover the highs and the lows of family life, from farewells to celebrations and everything in-between. Today’s episode is a celebration of Kylie's big heart, Justin's big brain, the best of some really bad jokes, and of course, you, our wonderful listeners—our Happy Families family! (With a special appearance from Hamish Blake!) Related links: #282 Better Together #562 The Pursuit of Happiness #853 Developing Yourself or Finding Yourself? 10 Things Every Parent Needs To Know - Happy Families . Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anonymous asks, "My 3-year-old is asking questions about his absent father. How do I answer in a way that supports my young son's mental health and self-esteem?". Justin gives examples of a healthy and developmentally appropriate response to this difficult situation in a way that honours the father, supports the child, and also advocates for our anonymous listener. Lisa, from Canada, is concerned that catching the school bus will potentially expose her 11-year-old daughter to explicit material. Justin shares some suggestions that will help every parent safely lead their child along the path to independence. In this episode: Single parent Absent father Mental health Answering sensitive questions age appropriately Honesty and transparency Children need to feel safe, secure, loved Building independence, confidence & self-efficacy Cocooning, pre-arming, deference The Three E's (Explore, Explain, Empower) . Related links: How Do I Support My Daughter Now That I'm Divorcing? - Happy Families Pornography Is The New Public Health Crisis - Happy Families #898 Porn-Proofing Your Kids, with Kristen Jenson Creating Confident Kids - Happy Families Navigating Your Teen's Quest For Independence - Happy Families . Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is a growing movement to commit to giving our primary-aged children unplugged childhoods! Dr Justin shares four things you can do NOW to give your children a play-based childhood, free from digital distractions and social media. Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter for more details! In this episode: How would an enforcement even work? Censorship Age-verification for social media Importance of holding platforms accountable A movement to keep smartphones and social media out of primary school Unplugged childhood Kids need smart parents not smart phones Related links: Tech Giants Are Anti-Kids - Happy Families #991 This Week In Parenting: Vape Zones, Baby Bans, & Nicotine Pouches How Do I Get My Daughter To Drop Social Media And Study For Exams? - Happy Families Social media has the “exact same negative effect on depression” as eating potatoes | Quartz Find us on Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin reads a personal letter aloud to his children, sharing insights into what life was like for him growing up. In this episode: Sharing childhood memories with your kids Pets Give your child roots Benefits to keeping a journal Rituals of connection To a child, love is spelled T.I.M.E . Related links: 5 Ways to Promote Happiness in Your Family - Happy Families Enough: Overcoming Anxiety, Perfectionism, & Self Loathing - Happy Families Family Traditions Help Kids Make Sense of Life - Happy Families 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 [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Study 1: Is your child feeling unhappy, pressured, or teased about their weight? Navigating growing up in a society so focused on physical appearance is difficult, but there are practical steps parents can take to decrease the risk of internalised stigma and other challenges around weight. Study 2: So, you think you can read a baby's cry? Think again! Study 3: The secret to getting your teen to listen to you can be found in the very foundation of what Dr Justin teaches in The Parenting Revolution! In this episode: Teasing children about weight increases risk of self-stigma as adults, study finds | The Guardian Weight stigma - what is it? Internalised incompetence and low sense of self-worth Babies’ cries alone don’t convey what they want | The British Psychological Society Dunstan Baby Language The secret to getting your teen to listen to you | The British Psychological Society Autonomy support Unsolicited advice from parents How to talk to teens about hard stuff Related links: 9 Strategies for Soothing A Crying Baby - Happy Families #957 Diet Free Families with Meg McClintock - Happy Families 5 Ways To Nurture Positive Relationships With Food and Body For Your Kids - Happy Families The Parenting Revolution (The Course) Normally $149, FREE when you purchase The Parenting Revolution [The Book] Find us on Facebook or TikTok. Subscribe to the Happy Families newsletter. Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected]. Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most families have screens in their home, which means a steady stream of movies, TV shows, games, apps, and more! How can parents know what content is or isn't appropriate for our children, when ratings are so broad and arbitrary? In today's interview with Prof. Elizabeth Handsley, President of CMA, we explore why it is so hard for parents to navigate the current classification system, and share some helpful resources and advice to minimise the risk that our children will be exposed to inappropriate content. In this episode: Children and Media Australia - supporting children and families to thrive in the expanding world of screen media Ratings and classifications Movies, apps, games, Inquiry into the Australian Classification Scheme Aged-based and research-based information Dose-response relationship to media Children become desensitised to content Related links: Movies and Kids: When Is It Ok For Them To Watch That? - Happy Families Everyone Else Can Do It! Why Can't I? - Happy Families Common Sense Media - Age-Based Media Reviews For Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Tuesdays, we answer listener questions about making your family happier! Separation anxiety at school drop-off is a daily struggle for many families, including Kirsty and her 5-year-old son. Justin shares some helpful tips that will make saying goodbye easier for both the parent and child. Mum of 3, Michala, is dealing with constant sibling rivalry and conflict. Listen in for some important, ongoing conversations to have with your children as you help to build their character, and teach empathy and kindness. In this episode: Sibling rivalry, conflict, and strife Building character Teaching compassion and empathy Repairing relationship ruptures Separation anxiety Emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA) Making mornings calm Validating emotions Basic psychological needs Strong parent-school partnership Flexibility Related links: 10 Steps to Reducing Sibling Conflict - Happy Families Teaching Kids Kindness - a Happy Families webinar School Refusal - Happy Families Developmental Milestones | Preschool - Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Tate's harmful ideology is infiltrating schools. Boys, broadly speaking, are big fans, and their behaviour in the classroom is reflecting this. Dr Stephanie Westcott (researcher and lecturer in the School of Education, Culture, and Society at Monash University) shares her research on the experiences women are having in educational settings across Australia, looking at the influence of misogynistic ideology, how algorithms on TikTok and Youtube direct young boys to these ideas, and what parents, carers, and educators can do to combat the rise of these radicalised masculine myths. In this episode: Andrew Tate Misogyny infiltrating classrooms Harmful ideology influencing young boys Andrew Tate’s extreme views about women are infiltrating Australian schools. We need a zero-tolerance response, Westcott & Roberts | The Conversation Experiences women are having in educational contexts Behaviours of boys in the classroom Framing boys and men as victims Radicalisation of masculinity Andrew Tate Effect in Australian Classrooms | ABC News What it means to be a real man Algorithms on social media are showing young boys very specific content Respectful relationships education Zero tolerance Related links: #694 Responding to the Hate from Andrew Tate - Happy Families Podcast Helping Our Boys Grow Into Men - Happy Families Can We Please Talk About Boys? - A FREE Happy Families Webinar Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin's singing turned complaints about dishes into a whole lot of fun, with sound levels hitting dangerous decibel levels! Term 2 of homeschooling started off rather rocky for The Coulsons, but thinking outside the box created an opportunity for a reluctant writer to be creative and expressive in a new way! Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a brand new nicotine product out, so invisible you may not even be aware your child has it! Plus, the dangers of vaping, a nation-leading move by SA to protect our children from social media, and 118 reasons to be child-free. In this episode: Bluey 'The Sign' - a missed opportunity? Advocate pushes for vaping areas in schools as NSW holds inquiry into vape laws | news.com.au Harm-reduction policy regarding vaping #498 Children and Vaping, with Lisa Damour - Happy Families Vaping is a 'young person' phenomenon in Australia | Pursuit, Uni of Melb A new nicotine product that tastes and smells great - known as zyns, snus or little lip pillows ‘Invisible threat’: Nicotine pouches taking over schools | news.com.au Should social media be banned for children? How should you approach your children's and teenagers' social media use? | abc.net.au Parents in defensive mode Australian model Ellie Gonsalves shared 118 reasons to be childfree | ABC Related links: Pots, Pills, & Parenting: A Masterclass with Paul Dillon and Dr Justin Coulson - Happy Families 4 P’s to Prevent Peer Pressure in your Teens - Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anne Hollonds was the opening speaker at the Breaking Point Digital Conference. On the podcast today you will hear an excerpt from Anne's presentation, discussing the mental health of young people around the country and what we can do to help them. In this episode: Anne Hollonds - National Children’s Commissioner. Young people and mental health Residual effects of Covid pandemic Barriers to accessing mental health support for young people Strong therapeutic alliance = better outcomes Breaking Point Digital Conference: Unpacking the Crisis in Youth Mental Health Related links: Enough: Overcoming Anxiety, Perfectionism, & Self Loathing - Happy Families We Need to Talk About Parent Wellbeing Screen Time and Our Teens’ Mental Health Crisis - Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Justin is answering two listeners' questions. First up is Bridget from Victoria, a mum of two. Her question is about her five-year-old son, whose over-competitiveness and inability to handle losing are causing issues in the family and in his wider circle of friends. Becky, a single mum from Melbourne, is looking for ways she can implement rules and boundaries that won't lead to anxiety-fuelled and explosive reactions from her son, who has autism and OCD. Helpful links: Winning Or Losing: How To Handle A Bad Sport – Happy Families #78 Boundaries and the Three E’s – Happy Families 3 Pillars of Practically Perfect Parenting – Happy Families Connection – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you have a child who refuses to or is unable to go to school? Sydney mum Alice joins Justin on the Happy Families podcast today to share the day-to-day pressure of trying to help a child get to school when emotions are high and nervous systems are in fight or flight mode. If you are deep in the trenches of ‘school can’t’, this is a not-to-be-missed conversation, with some beautiful advice and encouragement to parents who are feeling stressed, judged, and alone in their struggle to get a child to school. In this episode: Emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA) Reasons for 'school can't' School Can't Australia (Parent/Carer Peer Support) | Facebook Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD) Importance of friendships Pressure on parents, judgement Homeschooling Mental health of parents Moving schools "Is it just me? Am I the only one who can't get their kid to go to school?" School refusal and the Australian families gripped by blame, shame, and the fear of a lost education - ABC News Related links: School Refusal – Happy Families #533 Emotion Based School Avoidance aka School Refusal – Happy Families A Grown Up’s Guide to Worry Stacking – Happy Families Resilience: Developing Strength, Calm, & Kindness in Our Kids – Happy Families We Need to Talk About Parent Wellbeing – Happy Families Moving? How to Help your Child Settle Into A New School – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An encouragement to any parent feeling like they are stuck in a rut with a child determined to be horrible and difficult - there is hope! The relationship with your child changes as they age into adulthood and can become a delightful and close friendship. In this episode: Changing parent/child relationships during the young adult years Friendships with adult children Routines and structures Finding Balance – Happy Families #952- A Rippin Good Read – Happy Families Troubled by Rob Henderson | A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class Related links: What Your Child Needs From You – Happy Families 6 Strategies for Respectful Relationships – Happy Families I am Not your Friend. I am your Parent – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kylie is back, answering some quick-fire "Have you ever...?" questions about motherhood and family life. Mother's Day Links: Me & My Mum Activity Book - Free Printable – Happy Families What Dad can do for Mum’s wellbeing – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can parents ensure their children grow up to be respectful, kind, and considerate towards others? This conversation with author and academic Richard Ryan examines the typical backgrounds of perpetrators of violence and aggression and gives practical advice to parents so they can meet their child's basic psychological needs of relatedness, autonomy, and competency. In this episode: Self Determination Theory Gendered violence Basic Psychological Needs Modelling values and behaviour Objectification and sexualisation of women in the media Reducing exposure to and setting limits on media use Resilience Links: Helping Our Boys Grow Into Men – Happy Families How to Prevent your Child Becoming A #metoo (and Prevent your Child from Creating One) – Happy Families 4 P’s to Prevent Peer Pressure in your Teens – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does a particular school really make for a “better” education? And how can parents prepare their children for the death of a much-loved grandparent? In this episode: City vs country schools Resources, results and reputation Fun, fit and philosophy Upheaval for families when moving Developing new friendships and relationships Stability and security Grief and loss Preoperational thinking, object permanence, abstraction Developmentally appropriate language The sacredness of life and death Links: Moving? How to Help your Child Settle Into A New School – Happy Families Developmental Milestones [Introduction] – Happy Families How To Talk To Your Children About Death – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Content warning: not for young ears. “If you had to be in the forest with a man or a bear, which would you choose?”. How do we get to the point where we can answer without hesitation “a man!”? In this episode: Violence against women Parents stepping up Teaching morality The 'No More' rallies Influence of explicit pornography on young men Links: Quote by Saint Augustine: “Right is right even if no one is doing it...” The five demands of the No More national rallies (womensagenda.com.au) Helping Our Boys Grow Into Men – Happy Families How to Prevent your Child Becoming A #metoo (and Prevent your Child from Creating One) – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Judgement & criticism, punishing, provoking, and trying to “fix” a child—none of these are a parent’s job. They only serve to drive a wedge in relationships. Our job is to love our children. To set limits and have expectations—yes!—but to do so kindly. In this episode: Shifting the paradigm Compassion and empathy Emotions go up, intelligence goes down The problem with judgement Why kindness is the answer Links: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R Covey I don’t need Fixing! I need Guiding and Loving – Happy Families Why Our Kids Need Us to Set Limits – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you are struggling to "keep the spark alive" with your loved one, you're not alone. Exhaustion, screen addiction, lack of time, resentment - all these issues (and more!) can lead to zero interest in nurturing intimacy. Today we share some surprising secrets to sustaining a strong sexual connection! In this episode: Reasons for having zero interest in intimacy Connection and friendship Prioritising sex Slowing things down Female pleasure Book recommendations Links: Nurturing Intimacy: Secrets to Sustaining Strong Sexual Connection – Happy Families Come as You Are by Emily Nagoski | The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life She Comes First by Ian Kerner | The Thinking Man’s Guide to Pleasuring a Woman Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin shares four big ideas based on Jonathan Haidt's new book in the hope that it generates some constructive conversations with your kids at home: The key to building a resilient child, Getting comfy with our children experiencing a healthy level of discomfort in life, The impact of social media on the brain development of teens, and Looking at problematic use of or addiction to social media. In this episode: Healthy/unhealthy childhood stressors Supportive parenting vs "tough love" or over-protective parenting Resilience Anxiety The cycle of incompetence Anti-fragility Impact of social media on teenage brain development Social media addiction / problematic use Links: After Babel | Jon Haidt | Substack The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt Honestly with Bari Weiss: Smartphones Rewired Childhood. Here's How to Fix It Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A listener wants to know how to help her friend, a single mum to an increasingly difficult 10-year-old boy. Plus, three things you can do to survive your child’s big and embarrassing public meltdown! In this episode: Single parenting Supporting other parents Aggressive child Emotional regulation Psychological help It takes a village! 2-parent privilege Travelling with kids HALTS How to say no with compassion and kindness Helpful Links: Developmental Milestones [Part 4: Middle Childhood] Can We Please Talk About Boys? #649 Bringing Up Boys With Dr Arne Rubinstein The Secret to Regulating Emotions What is the Best Way to Say ‘No!’ To Your Kids? Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you wanting to return to work but struggling to know what on Earth to write on your resume after years out of the workforce? Listen in for some ideas that will inspire and encourage mothers to confidently claim the skills, strengths, and unique value you possess and can offer the world! In this episode: Cost-of-living increase Returning to work Motherhood Being a mum is valid and valuable work, so I put it on my CV - ABC Everyday Writing a resume Parental responsibilities, skills, unique value Stay-at-home-mums (SAHM) Kylie's resume – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin & Kylie discuss the hills and valleys of life - Justin is definitely feeling on top of the mountain as he strives to achieve a better work/life balance, while Kylie is in the valley after farewelling daughter number three. Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin takes a look at Abigail Shrier's controversial new book "Bad Therapy". What's really going on with our kids, and why are they going through so many challenges? In this episode: Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up and Irreversible Damage by Abigail Shrier Why The Kids Aren’t Alright | Honestly Podcast Trauma, PTSD, depression Therapy Iatrogenesis - when the healer introduces harm Parental self-doubt Restorative practices in schools Gentle parenting under fire Understanding children’s basic psychological needs Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we answer listener questions about co-parenting, homework, and starting daycare. In this episode: Co-parenting and divorce Picking battles Co-parenting apps: 2houses and OurFamilyWizard Structure and routine Natural, unstructured environments Developing social skills Happy Families Resources: Parenting on the Same Page – Happy Families 7 Tips for Co-Parenting Your Children – Happy Families #962 The Perfection Trap with Thomas Curran (Part 1) – Happy Families #947 Day Care Data with Jenet Erickson – Happy Families Is Homework Helpful? The Homework Letter I Send To School Each Year – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roblox is incredibly popular with kids, bringing a very real challenge to parents today. We share 5 practical steps you can take to keep your child safe online when it is not practical or feasible to keep them offline. In this episode: Keeping gaming to a minimum Roblox worries Inappropriate content Online predators Parental Guidance Season 2 Episode 1, Watch TV Online (9now.com.au) Commercialisation of platforms Psychological capacity of children Parental controls | How to keep your child safe (esafety.gov.au) Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After years of family holiday flops, ChatGPT planned a successful Coulson holiday. Plus, Kylie saves the day with a big dose of compassion. In this episode: #952- A Rippin Good Read – Happy Families ChatGPT itinerary planning Large family dynamics Farewelling children Gap years #968 The Secret to Regulating Emotions – Happy Families The power of compassion Find us on Facebook or TikTok Leave a voice memo here or email your questions/comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Content warning: violence, CSA + a spoiler alert for Bluey fans. This week in parenting: how a family of dogs is teaching resilience, a sober warning to parents regarding children's online activity, and a fun look at celebrity parenting rules. In this episode: Bluey is back with a lesson about preparing kids for change - ABC News Resilience Guy Sebastian's bad parenting advice Responding to Toddler Tantrums – Happy Families Violent Online Groups Extort Minors to Self-Harm and Produce Child Sexual Abuse Material (ic3.gov) #454 Online Safety with Julie Inman Grant from the eSafety Commission – Happy Families Extortion/blackmail tactics Monitoring social media use and online activity 21 Celebrities With Parenting Rules (buzzfeed.com) Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warning: sensitive content Pregnancy and infant loss are such important yet rarely discussed topics. Author Lellie Lopter emphasises the importance of creating a safe environment for these conversations to take place, as well as the need to include children in the healing journey. In this episode: My Brother Born Sleeping by Lellie Lopter Supporting families Coping with different beliefs about infant loss Curiosity from children and how to answer their questions Pink Elephant Foundation Rainbow babies Making room for conversation Processing trauma, grief, and loss Red Nose Day Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the tragic attack in Bondi, our children need help processing such difficult news. There are things you can do and say to ensure your child feels safe and secure as they come to terms with what has happened. Also, a mum of three asks "What should we do when our kids don't show us the respect that we would like?" In this episode: Having hard conversations Honesty Limiting exposure to news Age-appropriate information Holding boundaries Weekly family meetings What To Do When Kids Won’t Listen – Happy Families Talking to Children About Tragic Events in the News – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digital influences, demographic shifts, and information overload: we explore the evolution of parenting from GenX through to Millennial parents. In this episode: Digital infusion Information overload Parents under pressure Changing dynamics of family life Screen-based childhoods Present and engaged parents Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The meltdown out of nowhere, an angry and aggressive child, the emotionally flooded teen - kids of all ages have BIG emotions, and experience emotional dysregulation! Discover the tools and skills that will help you respond to your child with compassion and kindness - and build emotional awareness and regulation for you both. Topics in this episode: No Matter What Emotion regulation The magic of Nature Moving forward, finding solutions Responding with compassion and gentleness Emotion Coaching- a Happy Families article Little People, Big Feelings - a Happy Families webinar The Secret to Regulating Emotions - a Happy Families article Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is your child stressed out, apprehensive or just feeling like life is too hard? Does anxiety or perfectionism cause them to feel they are not enough? All hope is not lost! Three ways you can BUILD HOPE in your child's life - helping them to do well and feel well as they experience the power of hope. Research by Rick Snyder, Shane Lopez Science of Hope TikTok video series by @insearchofbobcat Failure, anxiety, resilience Our children need to feel hopeful before they can feel they are enough What does the research say about hopeful people? What is hope, and why are our youth feeling hopeless? How to be a hope-builder Enough: Overcoming Anxiety, Perfectionism, & Self Loathing - a Happy Families article Register for the Happy Families October Webinar - "Enough: Helping our children overcome anxiety, perfectionism & self-loathing" Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Become a Happy Families member today - Happy Families Membership. Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part 2 of Justin speaking with author & associate Professor Katie Davis about her new book Topics discussed in this episode - Technology's Child by Katie Davis Justin asks Katie some rapid fire questions about her own family life Using technology to reinforce technology rules Finding a balance Video games aren't all bad The impact of social media Further reading/watching: Screens And Our Boys - a Happy Families Article 5 Better Conversations To Have About Screens - a Happy Families Article Keeping your child focused on study and away from social media - a Happy Families Article Tweens, Teens & Screens - a Happy Families Webinar Digital Kids - a Happy Families Article Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You CAN be a "good-enough" digital parent! Two questions every parent needs to ask when choosing apps or games for their child PLUS learn how to guide your child's relationship with screens in the best direction - guilt free! (Replay) Topics discussed in this episode - Technology's Child: Digital Media’s Role in the Ages and Stages of Growing Up - by Katie Davis What are the risks for children under 3? Why are screens so compelling to kids? Using screens as the default "fix" Why screens are such an effective regulator (emotionally and behaviorally) Executive functioning and self-regulation 'Bottom-up' vs top-down' process of attention "Educational" apps - red flags Sign up for Katie's newsletter here Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friendships are oxygen for girls! When a friendship sours, the mean girls arrive, or your daughter just can't find her tribe, life can be really hard. We share some powerful ideas to help your child navigate friend troubles - giving them options and building resilience. Topics included in this episode - The difference between boy & girl play Boys use their bodies, girls use their words Optionality equals resilience Autonomy, and feeling seen, heard and valued When should the school get involved? Avoidance reinforces anxiety Things you can you do to help your daughter Why Your Kids Need a Tribe - a Happy Families article Miss-Connection | 7 Day Connection Challenge – Happy Families Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part 2 of a conversation on perfectionism with Professor Thomas Curran from the London School of Economics. Rather than expecting perfection from your child try modelling making mistakes - embrace failure and setbacks when they arise. This (not perfectionism) is what leads to success! Topics in this episode: Feeling that you are not enough The rise of perfectionism – and the harm it’s doing us all | Mental health | The Guardian Link between perfectionism and psychological distress Parental/societal expectations Increased competition and excessive pressure "Doing your best" - is this helpful? Self-sabotage, procrastination and avoidance of failure What is success? The Perfection Trap Thomas Curran's new book Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Professor Thomas Curran is (among many impressive titles) a 'perfectionist expert'. He unpacks the 'what, why, where, who, and how' of perfectionism in part 1 of this compelling discussion with Dr Justin Coulson. Part 2 of this conversation can be found here. Today's conversation covers: What is perfectionism? The link between mental health challenges and perfectionism Perfectionism in children - genetics or environmental? The 3 types of perfectionism Intergenerational transmission of perfectionistic tendencies The challenging cycle of self-defeat The Perfection Trap Thomas Curran's new book TEDMED - Our dangerous obsession with perfectionism is getting worse Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Raising teenagers can be hard even at the best of times. Trying to support our teens when they are struggling can feel like a dead-end street. Dr Jo Prendergast shares the most important thing you can do that will make a difference for your teen when life just sucks. Topics in this episode: When Life Sucks - Jo's new book Parents and self-regulation Emotions are contagious Deep breathing Being self-aware of your own triggers 'Ghosts in the nursery' Neurodiversity When does life suck for teens? 'The Three Rs of Great Parenting' Connected interactions Learn more about The Teenage Brain in our FREE Happy Families Article. Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating the complexities of tween and teen friendships can be challenging, especially in the age of social media. Here are some insights and tips to help your child run towards wonderful friendships rather than living in fear of exclusion. Topics in this episode: Sleepovers Bulling and teasing Snapchat and social media Structured activities and finite time for teenage get-togethers Miss Connection: Why your teenage daughter "hates" you, expects the world, and needs to talk by Dr Justin Coulson What teenage girls worry about most Conversations to have with your child BMX - Be More Exceptional Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every young person needs to have a close, significant adult to talk to when they experience challenges in life. Sadly, new research has revealed that far too many adolescents do not feel listened to and aren’t speaking to anyone when they’re worried. Dr Katrina Lines (CEO of Act for Kids, and registered psychologist) shares some simple ways to connect with your child that will encourage them to share their problems with you. Topics in this episode: Speaking to a professional Act for Kids Campaign "Get Comfy Switching ON by Switching OFF" - all the research stats, tip sheets and an animation Incidental conversation or "small talk" Being present Connection Pressures of school, friendships, social media 3 basic psychological needs Mental health issues - anxiety, depression, poor sleep Fear of parental criticism or dismissal, or not being listened to Enough: Overcoming Anxiety, Perfectionism, & Self Loathing - a Happy Families article Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it just me...or are sleepovers a really bad idea? In this episode: Pros and cons of sleepovers Social development Memories Safety concerns Peer pressure/exclusion Screens Prearming your kids #926 Who Tops the List of Child Sexual Abusers? – Happy Families Being on the Outer – Happy Families Are Sleepovers OK? – Happy Families Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dietician Meg McClintock on eating disorder prevention and the impact of poor body image on eating. Meg shares how parents can nurture positive relationship with food and body for your kids. In this episode: Meg McClintock from Choose Nutrition Meg's Podcast Life's Too Short to Count Almonds Eating disorders or disordered eating? The dangers of diet culture and chronic dieting Natural eating/intuitive eating Being compassionate with yourself Red flags to watch for in children/teenagers Body trust and hunger/fullness cues Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teenage tantrums, defiance, and selfish behaviour can lead to chaos in families. 3 ways parents can help their troubled boys to “man up” as they edge closer to adulthood. In this episode: Limits and authority Step-parents Discipline Minimising tension Inside the Brain of Your Teenage Boy – Happy Families Autonomy Doing the inner work Explain, explore, empower Education Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not sure how to entertain your child in the holidays? Helpful tips for tired parents just wanting to survive the school break. In this episode: Only children Holiday boredom Clear expectations Creating engaging environments #944 Raising Kids, Not Grass – Happy Families Screen-based childhood Playdates 936 weekends with our kids Plans and predictability ChatGPT Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parent behaviour at children's sporting events can directly impact the child's experience. Thankfully the majority of parents do seem to encourage having fun over putting the pressure on their child to be the best. Journalist Shona Hendley unpacks why sports parents get a bad rap - but are in fact the angels of society. Topics in this episode - Competitive parents coaching from the side Shona Hedley's article - Taking kids to sport all the time Dedication - time, money, energy Training, competitions, camps, social events, volunteering & more! Why do children drop out of sports early? "Doing your best" vs winning vs simply loving the experience Competence & connection Report cards: grades vs effort The current mental health crisis with young people Government policies and decisions re sport Find us on Facebook at Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families Email us your questions and comments at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Screens are crippling our kids; three things we need to do to stem the relentless push towards screens. Plus, how to help your child feel like they belong at school. In this episode: Screen Time and Parent-Child Talk When Children Are Aged 12 to 36 Months | Media and Youth | JAMA Pediatrics | JAMA Network Screens - impacting engagement, language, social interactions Technoference Screens as babysitters? Adolescent School Belonging and Mental Health Outcomes in Young Adulthood: Findings from a Multi-wave Prospective Cohort Study | School Mental Health (springer.com) School belonging Competence, connectedness, confidence at school Parent and school partnerships Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is your child struggling to read? Sally Rippin shares ways parents can get their reluctant readers hooked on books! In this episode: Sally Rippin - Australia's Children's Laureate for 2024-25 “All kids can be readers” Dyslexia, ADHD and other learning difficulties Low competence = low motivation Books open up worlds Early intervention and support Are you a book snob? Giving children choice ‘Dating and mating pool’ data Breaking down stereotypes Boys and books Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your job is to guide your kids to make decisions that are safe and healthy. How do you respond to their requests to become creators of online content? In this episode: Embracing and encouraging our children's talents and interests How Gen Z is living under the influence | The Australian Social media - a toxic, dangerous place for children A Marketplace of Girl Influencers Managed by Moms and Stalked by Men - The New York Times Self-esteem, mental health and wellbeing Seeking validation from strangers, self-worth Importance of listening to own voice Are the risks worth it? Scaffolding interests and talents in age-appropriate ways Find us on Facebook or TikTok Email your questions and comments to [email protected] Find out more about joining THE QUEST at our websiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.