Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

How do you help your child develop critical thinking skills and feel confident in expressing their opinions? In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson looks at this question from lots of different perspectives from confidence to curiosity. Find more like this in the Happy Families Store:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

!The adolescent years can be a difficult time. How can you, as a parent, help guide and protect your teenager? In this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin explains how to develop good relationships with your child. Find more like this in the Happy Families Store:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We spend a lot of time critiquing young people for spending too much time on their phones, yet we as parents are just as guilty. In this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin gives his thoughts on the matter. Find more like this in the Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When is a good time to step in, or when to step back and let our children handle the situation? In this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin discusses when and how it a parent should intervene. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we cope when our teens stop listening and start rebelling? In this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin discusses what to when teens want to break the rules and push the limits. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The number of prep kids getting suspended is growing at a concerning rate. In the latest episode of the podcast, Dr Justin discusses the reasons behind this and things we should think about. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research has revealed that almost 9 in 10 Australians say that their smartphone is their number 1 companion- ahead of their parents and their pets! In this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin weighs in on this concerning fact. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Schoolies is known for teenagers making silly decisions. In this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin discusses how do we deal with this end of school tradition. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the podcast, Dr Justin discusses the time when our daughters turn from little princesses into the spawns of satan. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the episode today, Dr Justin discusses the phrase “post traumatic growth”, which is elaborated in more depth in his book “9 Ways to a Resilient Child”. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Halloween ok? Should we take part in this holiday? Dr Justin shares his thoughts on the topic in this episode. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr Justin explains the importance of having down time for both children and adults. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know that the way we set up our home can impact our children’s education? Dr Justin explains how something as simple as having books in your house can make all the difference. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode talks about balancing safety and fun- Should you be allowed to roll down a hill and risk getting hurt? Should we get rid of the monkey bars just because someone broke their arm? Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where is the line when it comes to discipling someone else’s child? Dr Justin gives some suggestions and thoughts on this topic in this week’s episode. Find out more on this topic in the Happy Families Shop: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much privacy should you give a teenager? In this episode, Dr Justin talks about finding the balance between freedom and control. Find more like this is our Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the best way to discipline your children? That’s the topic of discussion in this week’s episode. Find more like this in our Happy Families Shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Love languages are often discussed when it come to romantic relationships, but what about in the family? In this episode, Dr Justin discusses the value of time and understanding. Find more on this topic in the Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you want to be when you grow up? This episode discusses character vs career. Find more on this topic in the Happy Families Shops:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spending time together as a family is extremely important. In this episode, Dr Justin talks about setting aside time every weekend for communal activities. Find more on this topic at the Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In an ever-evolving world, we have become more reliant on technology. In this latest episode, Dr Justin discusses the use of screens and social media in the family. Find more on this topic at the Happy Families Shop:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you feel like you are being pulled in a million directions? Is balance in life really achievable? Dr Justin says no! Instead, let’s focus on being intentional. Listen and found out how! The 21 Days to a Happier Family Online program can help you get intentional with the things that matter to your family. TAKE A LOOKSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it ever OK to ignore your children? Typically people think that by ignoring tantrums the problem will go away. But does it? Here are some alternative strategies you can try.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we respond to our kids when they come to us with questions about the BIG ISSUES? Dr Justin gives us some great tips and insights that will arm you with the right tools when the need arises.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dads and sons. It can be a very special relationship. How can we nurture that connection, especially as those bright eyed boys become troublesome teens?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Both mums and dads are spending more time with their kids than ever, which is great! But is the time we are spending with our children today “quality” time?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we warn our children of potential dangers without disempowering them? Dr Justin gives some practical suggestions on how to have those difficult conversations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every parent wishes their children would listen to them more. But, how well do we really listen to them? When we stop, look and listen to our children we are letting them know that they are worthy of our time. In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson shares some simple strategies for making sure your children receive the one-on-one attention and nurture they deserve. Links mentioned in this episode: * What Your Child Needs From You * Have Dr Justin speak at your school or organization * Toilet Training: As easy as one, two, wee More on this topic: * Stop, Look and Listen to Your Kids * 7 Ways to Really Listen So Your Child Shares More * 18 Ways to a More Resilient Child * Please turn off your phone FREE DOWNLOADSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sleep is not a luxury item, but many of today’s teens aren’t getting enough and it’s having a detrimental effect for many of them long into the future. Devices have crept into the bedroom and many teens are losing sleep because they’re spending all night on social media and playing games. A recent study has found that a teenager that is always tired is 4.5 times more likely to commit a crime as an adult. In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin looks at the research from this study and explores some of the circumstances that cause this link. Links mentioned in this episode: * 21 Days to a Happier Family * 21 Days to a Happier Family Online Video Course * Have Dr Justin speak at your school or organisation Related articles: * Why a teenager’s brain is like a Ferrari with bicycle brakes * Kids need smart parents, not smart phones * My teen treats our home like a hotel Super Solutions for Technology Troubles: For children from toddlers to teens This video presentation has helped thousands of parents and their children understand what screens are doing in our lives, and how they can enjoy them in healthy, balanced ways so that the other parts of their lives can be as successful as their advancement through the levels of their favourite game. Available as DVD or instand downloadGET IT TODAYSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve all had ‘one of those days’ with our kids where we seem to butting heads with each other all day. There’s no avoiding it. Those days do happen. So how do we survive them as parents and ensure our children continue to thrive? There is no one simple answer – different situations call for different solutions. In this week’s episode Dr Justin Coulson shares some ideas to keep in mind and give a go next time you’re having ‘one of those days’. Links mentioned in this episode: * Parenting workshop with Dr Justin Coulson (DVD/Download) * Have Dr Justin speak at your school or organisation More on this topic: * The kids are out of control * How do I control my child’s outbursts * My 4 year old goes from angel to absolute #devilchildSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You talk and you talk and you talk and there’s a blank look on their face. You ask a question and they walk the other way as if they haven’t heard you. So you ask louder, then you yell and shout to get our child’s attention. Does it work? No. But you still do it over and over again. In this week’s episode Dr Justin Coulson shares his top 3 tips to get your children to really listen. Links mentioned in this episode: * 21 Days to a Happier Family book * 21 Days to a Happier Family online video program * Have Dr Justin speak at your school or organisation More on this topic: * How do I get my 3 year old to listen? * Why doesn’t my 4 year old ever listen? Free download: * How to get your kids to really listen audio download and cheat sheetSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kids these days are addicted to their devices. My child spends way too much time on screens. How do I get my child to put down his phone and go outside? One of the biggest concerns for modern parents is the amount of time their children are spending on screens and the effect this is having on their health, relationships and wellbeing. But while we are all busy being so concerned, research tells us that parents aren’t setting a very good example and this is having a detrimental effect on our relationships. In this week’s episode Dr Justin will help you identify if you have a technology problem and shares some simple ways to modify your behaviour that will have a big impact on your relationships with each other and with your kids. Links mentioned in this episode: * Have Dr Justin speak at your school or organisation * Parenting Workshop (video seminar) More on this topic: * Is my mother-in-law ruining my child with screens? * 5 Ways to set screen time limits with your children * How to banish tech and make mealtimes matter * What do you get when you cross a toddler with an ipad * Please turn off your phone * Kids need smart parents, not smart phones Resources: * FREE Technology Tickets * FREE Colourful Connection * Super Solutions for Technology TroublesSuper Solutions for Technology Troubles available on DVD and as an instant downloadSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does it matter how old you are when you have children? It’s a controversial topic and there is no definitive answer. In this week’s episode Dr Justin Coulson looks at the research, in particular a recent correlational study looking at the advantages and disadvantages associated with the age a mother is when she has a child. Dr Justin explains how health and physicality, stability of relationships, life experience, psychological maturity and psychological flexibility all play a part in the type of mother you’re likely to be, depending on your age. Links mentioned in this episode: * Time Out Is Not Your Only Option * Have Dr Justin speak at your school or organisation * Controlled Crying: Is it safe? How to be the best parent you can be, no matter what age: * What Your Child Needs From You * 21 Days to a Happier FamilySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“When I was your age…” We’ve all heard our parents say it and some of us may have even said it ourselves. Every generation believes children are losing the art of respect. In this episode Dr Justin explores: * the difference between obedience and respect and how it is unfair to our children to confuse the two * how to deal with a child who has anxiety issues and whose behaviour may be perceived by others as disrespectful * the problem with asking for respect in disrespectful ways * the importance of modelling high levels of respect in our everyday lives Links mentioned in this episode:Have Justin speak at your school or organisation21 Days to a Happier Family You may also like: * 6 Strategies for Respectful RelationshipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If your child was the victim of sexting would they tell you? And if so, would you know what to do? In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson shares a personal story regarding one of his daughters who received a request for nude images from a so called friend. Find out how Dr Justin dealt with the situation and what he learned from the experience. “Sexist, abusive and toxic messages are everywhere in the media. The exploitation of girls and young women rockets through primary school and into the teens. But it’s in the younger years that we can make girls strong and free. 10 Things Girls Need Most outlines a radically different girlhood – more connection with nature, more time, peace, affection, and no pressure to start school young, to compete or worry about their looks or clothes.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether or not smacking children is effective or even acceptable is a topic that polarises people in today’s society. Many believe we’ve become too soft and need to bring back ‘old-school’ parenting – without shame or remorse. Those who are in favour often make the argument that they were smacked and still turned out fine. But, imagine if our children grew up saying they turned out well because of the way they were parented rather than in spite of the way they were parented. In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson explains how discipline is different from punishment.If you’d like to discover simple strategies and ideas for disciplining your children in ways that work, and that reduce or eliminate parental guilt then download my ebook Time Out is Not Your Only Option today (just $9.99). The principles and strategies you’ll read are based on some of the very best psychological research that the world has to offer. And when you begin to practise them you’ll notice the difference in your children, and they will notice the difference in you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Establishing a routine is important for children and adults. We do better and feel more secure when life is predictable, and we get more done. A lot of parents don’t like the idea of a routine because they think it means there is no room for flexibility and spontaneity. In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson explains how to implement a simple routine that allows you to have fun and flexibility, but also gives you a framework to come back to when things aren’t going right.For more on the benefits of routine and how to implement one that works for your family, take advantage of our special offer to save $50 off my 21 Days to a Happier Family online video program. Click here and enter the coupon code ‘PODCAST’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family, parenting and marriage – all of these are important relationships in our home and they can be tough work sometimes. To make them work, we need to make them a priority. In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson talks about marriage. Quality time with our spouse or partner can often go by the wayside, especially when our children are of an age where they need a lot of attention. So how can we give our marriage the attention it deserves? This week, Dr Justin shares some simple to implement tips to keep your marriage on track.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you lose your cool with your kids? Do you feel like you’re constantly yelling? In this week’s podcast episode I share my top 4 tips for keeping our anger in check and stay calm and be kind to our children (even when we think they don’t deserve it).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No parent is perfect. We have all been totally terrible parents at some time or other. This week’s podcast episode is a humorous look at what makes a totally terrible parent (and a gentle reminder of how to be a great one). If you’d rather be a totally awesome parent rather than a totally terrible one, take advantage of our special offer to save $50 off my 21 Days to a Happier Family online video program. Click here and enter the coupon code ‘PODCAST’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all know the phrase “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” And while this may be the case for adults (but not always), unfortunately, when it comes to our children, it’s just not true. The words we use with our children when they are displaying challenging behaviour can be just as damaging as if we were smacking them. Scientists have found that the same areas of the brain light up when we experience psychological pain from verbal punishment as when we experience physical pain. That’s why it is so important to choose the right words when speaking to our children. In this week’s podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson explains the 7 things we should never say to our children and what to say (or do) instead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do we need to teach our kids to “toughen up”? Are we molly-coddling our kids too much? We all want our children to succeed but we are often so tired or busy that it’s often easier to do things ourselves. Unfortunately, this takes away all those small opportunities for our children to develop resilience. In this episode Dr Justin Coulson explores the idea of resilience and de-bunks some common myths. He talks about finding the right balance between holding your child’s hand and stepping back to allow them to gain the competence, and thus the confidence, to do things for themselves or face challenging times. For more on building resilience in your child check out Dr Justin Coulson’s book 9 Ways to a Resilient ChildSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast episode Dr Justin Coulson will help you discover your child’s love language so that you can always make sure they know they are loved. Inspired by The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman, Dr Justin identifies the two major love languages that everyone speaks – TIME and UNDERSTANDING – and explores the three additional love languages – TOUCH ME, TELL ME, SHOW ME – which differ from person to person. He explains that when we can identify someone’s love language and then express love to that person, in the way they like it to be expressed, it is wonderful for the relationship. And this applies to our children too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Studies show that Australian kids aren’t doing enough active play and aren’t taking part in as much active transportation as they used to (eg. walking or riding a bike to school). The current obesity epidemic in Australia is just one symptom of this. In this podcast episode Dr Justin discusses the reasons why Aussie kids are not spending enough time outside, the detrimental effect that this has on their wellbeing and what we as parents can do about it. If you’re interested in learning more about a healthy digital diet for your children check out Dr Justin’s Super Solutions for Technology Troubles for Children from Toddlers to Teens and also his free Technology Tickets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When life puts you in a tight spot, don’t ask, ‘Why me?’ Instead, stand tall and say, ‘Try me!’ We’ve all heard the term ‘Post Traumatic Stress’ but what about ‘Post Traumatic Growth’? What if instead of letting life’s challenges and difficult times make us anxious and stressed, we focused on how the experience would strengthen us? This simple change in perspective can be extremely empowering as it allows us to look at adversity as an opportunity to build strength and character. It reminds us that we are who we are because of the challenges we have overcome. But how do we nurture this resilient mindset in our kids, and in ourselves? This episode explores the term ‘Post Traumatic Growth’ and explains how it can help us, and our kids, become more resilient. Post Traumatic Growth is explored further in the first chapter of my book 9 Ways to a Resilient Child.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you’re a parent who works full-time, or even part-time, how do you prioritise connection with your kids? Whether we work from home or outside the home, our children want us in their lives and we want to be in their lives. But of course, that’s not always possible. It’s not always practical to go to every school event and sports game. How do we know which ones matter most? And how do we overcome the guilt when we really can’t be there? Our children need to feel like they’re important in our lives. But how do we do that when we have so many competing priorities? Creating clear boundaries, getting creative and keeping communication open is key. And it doesn’t have to take long! This podcast provides some simple strategies for making sure your kids feel like they matter (because they do).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Think of the times that your parenting has been its best. Those times where you were unconditionally there for your child and it felt right. Show Notes When I ask parents to tell me about those times, these are the answers I hear: * Dinner time conversations * Holidays with no agendas * Weekends at the park or the beach * Playing games in the lounge room * Walking and talking * The last ten minutes each night when I tuck them in and we just chat It seems that time together, really focusing on one another, is the most profound and powerful way for us to build strong relationships and feel like great parents. No parent has ever told me they felt like they were being the best parent they could be while they did overtime at the office, snuck away for an anniversary weekend, or watched a late-night movie. While getting some ‘me-time’ or providing for the family can help us to be good parents, it seems that ‘we-time’, or time together has the potential to bring out the best in us and our kids. This podcast looks at five research-backed ways to help you be the best parent you can be, and also bring out the best in your children. In Ask Dr Justin we’ll look at guidance-based discipline for a little boy who won’t stop hitting mum. And information about how you can access a HUGE discount on the 21 Days to a Happier Family online video program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast we’re looking at how to make the Internet Invasion – the Screen Tsunami – less cumbersome, exhausting, and outright punishing on the entire family. Show Notes Screens are here to stay and our kids are all over them! They know more than us in many cases, and they want to be on there! And when I ask parents what their biggest challenge is with tech, the answer is almost universal – we just want them to turn it off! * 1:17 60 second psychology – what rules should parents have for tech… according to the kids? * 3:08 What’s the biggest issue that your children face with tech? * 4:48 How much are your children on devices and screens? * 5:40 How do you deal with children refusing to get off a screen? * 7:10 The Screen Tsunami * 7:45 Screens and Relationships * 13:25 Screens and Sleep * 16:01 Screens and Wellbeing * 17:45 Top Tips for having a Healthy Relationship with your Phone * 20:10 3 minute therapy – Oppositional Defiant Disorder * 23:58 3 minute therapy – Reward charts * 27:00 Five suggestions to help challenging children * 31:05 $50 Discount for the 21 Days to a Happier Family online programSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For episode 14 of the Happy Families podcast we’re looking into discipline. What is it? How is it working for you? What makes for the best kind of discipline? We’ll investigate the 7 reasons punishments don’t work, and take a close look at what great discipline is all about. Show Notes A new segment starts in this episode: 60 second psychology. Today’s research article looks at the impact of parenting style on teenagers decisions around prosocial behaviour, friendship choices, alcohol and other drug use, and academic efforts… and the results may surprise you. And in my 3-minute therapy session a mum asks how to stop the cycle of abuse in her home. It’s an important and challenging question. * 1:43 60 second psychology * 3:55 Punishment as discipline * 4:22 YOUR SAY: What do you think of when you hear the word, discipline? * 5:29 YOUR SAY: What kinds of discipline do most parents rely on? * 6:58 The really unusual response * 7:18 What is punishment? * 7:28 What is discipline? * 7:58 7 reasons punishment is bad for our kids * 11:58 YOUR SAY: How long does punishment work for? * 12:58 YOUR SAY: How does your family feel when you use punishment? * 14:00 What to do for discipline * 18:40 Three minute therapy – stopping the cycle of abuseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s podcast: Innocence lost. We’re talking about the public health crisis that is pornography and the way that it’s affecting our children. Note – In this podcast I’ll be discussing content that is of a highly sensitive nature. In the past few weeks I attended a conference about pornography and the way it harms young people. On Tuesday February 9, activist group Collective Shout hosted Australia’s first symposium on the harm that pornography does to children. Experts from all backgrounds agree: pornography is hurting our children. I’m going to spend some time sharing things that were reinforced at the conference that EVERY parent needs to know about – because the reality is that your children WILL see pornography. And in today’s podcast, specific tips for every parent for how to deal with pornography in your children’s lives. Show Notes The following resources and people can provide additional information for people who are interested in this topic:Basically… porn is everywhere. A report from the UK Children’s Commissioner. Website: It’s time we talked.Maree Crabbe– Reality and RiskMelinda Tankard Reist * 2:40 Am I the only parent worried about this? * 6:45 How old are children when first see pornography? * 7:45 How children see pornography at school * 12:45 Children are seeing pornography BEFORE they’ve ever held someone’s hand * 18:30 How old should your children be before you talk about pornography? * 19:20 What does pornography teach our children? * 26:50 How does a 14 year-old girl get convinced to send nude images to a boy at school? * 31:15 How do we talk to a child about pornography? * 34:30 A sample conversation about pornography with your child * 40:25 Wrap up Save $40 on 21 Days to a Happier Family online program – This is a special offer ONLY for Newsletter and Podcast subscribers. This week only, save $40 on 21 Days to a Happier Family – the online program – by using the code “giveme40” at the checkout. Make your family happier, and save!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.