Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

When your child says they hate school and have no friends, what really works? Discover why building friendships takes 200 hours of intentional time, and learn practical strategies from hosting craft days to finding 'third spaces'. Plus, understand the two key relationships that create true school belonging and why sometimes the best friendships might not be with peers at all. Quote of the Episode: "Friends don't usually land in our lap—they require intention and time." Key Insights: Close friendships require 200+ hours of intentional time School belonging needs two key relationships Third spaces beyond home and school are crucial Adult friendships can be valuable for children Structured activities help build new friendships Medical and psychological checks may be needed School relationships often need parental facilitation Quality family time remains foundational Resources Mentioned: Jeffrey Hall's friendship research from the University of Kansas  School belonging research Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: Facilitate Intentional Friend Time Organise structured activities Create regular playdates Use third spaces effectively Work with Schools Identify potential friend matches Build teacher relationships Focus on school belonging Consider Broader Solutions Explore adult mentoring Check medical factors Strengthen family connections See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if you could tap into your child's natural brain chemistry to boost motivation and reduce stress? Discover the "Happiness Quartet"—four key neurochemicals that can transform behaviour, learning, and family life. From barefoot walks on grass to risky play, learn practical ways to naturally boost these powerful brain chemicals for happier, more motivated kids. Quote of the Episode: "Break big, difficult tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps - each step triggers a dopamine hit, which fuels motivation and sense of accomplishment." Key Insights: Dopamine works as an anticipation engine Serotonin acts as a natural stress reducer Endorphins serve as natural painkillers Oxytocin builds trust and connection Nature exposure boosts multiple positive chemicals Physical activity enhances brain chemistry Social connections trigger beneficial hormones Breaking down tasks increases motivation Resources Mentioned: Neuroscience research on motivation Serotonin and nature studies Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: The Dopamine Boost Break tasks into smaller steps Celebrate progress Create anticipation The Serotonin Solution Get outside in nature Try barefoot grounding Practice deep breathing The Endorphin Lift Encourage physical activity Make time for laughter Allow calculated risks The Oxytocin Connection Prioritise family meals Share physical affection Create trust-building moments See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parenting a neurodivergent child comes with unique challenges, especially when executive function skills—like planning, organisation, and impulse control—are difficult for them. In this episode, Professor Adam Guastella, a leading expert at the University of Sydney, provides expert insights on how parents can advocate for their children in the education system, the latest neuroscience research, the role of executive function in development, and how to provide supportive environments that foster growth and confidence in children.  Tune in for practical advice, strategies for success, and a refreshing sense of hope for families facing these challenges. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:“It's not a battle of will, it's a battle of systems.” – Professor Adam Guastella KEY INSIGHTS FOR PARENTS: Autism is not about intelligence; it's about different ways of thinking and interacting with the world. What is executive function, and why does it matter? The connection between ADHD, autism, and executive function challenges. A strength-based approach helps kids feel empowered rather than ashamed of their challenges. How parents can advocate for their child at school—even without a diagnosis. The importance of structure, and practical strategies and accommodations for helping kids succeed and thrive. New research on the cerebellum and its role in neurodevelopment. RESOURCES MENTIONED: University of Sydney—Professor Adam Guastella’s research Happy Families Various professionals, such as paediatricians, psychologists, and speech therapists, who can provide advocacy and support. ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Build a support team of medical and educational professionals. Stay persistent in seeking the right resources, even if it’s challenging. Highlight your child’s strengths and provide structured support. Educate yourself on neurodevelopmental conditions and executive function. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When your Year 12 child can't do maths or your teen rings crying from camp after being bullied, your instinct is to fix everything. But research shows that simply being heard is often more powerful than any solution. This episode reveals how validation, not problem-solving, helps children develop resilience in challenging situations. Learn the simple two-minute technique that transformed a tearful camp crisis and discover why becoming a "people builder" creates confidence in our children that lasts far beyond any temporary fix. Quote of the Episode: "You don't have to solve; you just have to support. And when the kids can feel it and then you give them an opportunity to find a way forward, they will find it. The answers are deep inside themselves." Key Points: Children need validation and understanding before they can move forward from emotional distress Being a "people builder" creates confidence and resilience in children Emotion coaching involves recognizing feelings, naming them, and allowing them to be expressed Support without immediately trying to solve problems helps children develop self-regulation Hearing supportive voices can be enough to help children find their own solutions With consistent emotional coaching, children develop faster regulation responses Finding the right supportive environments (like tutoring) can transform a child's confidence Children often have the answers within themselves when given space to find them Overcoming challenges builds resilience and confidence Small interactions with supportive people can have profound effects on children's wellbeing Resources Mentioned: Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by John Gottman [affiliate link] Edgar Guest's poem "A Builder or a Wrecker" Emotion coaching methodology Action Steps for Parents: Practice emotion coaching by naming your child's feelings when they're upset Allow emotions to "breathe" before trying to find solutions Ask open questions like "What do you think would be best?" after validating feelings Look for "people builders" in your child's life (teachers, tutors, friends) Consciously choose to be a "builder" rather than a "wrecker" in your interactions When your child calls in distress, focus first on connection before correction Give children space to find their own solutions after feeling supported Recognise that overcoming challenges builds resilience, even when painful at the time See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When school photos become weapons through AI manipulation, how do we protect our children? From understanding why teenage boys might engage in this behaviour to knowing exactly what to do if your child is involved, learn practical steps for prevention and response. Plus, discover why biology isn't destiny and how to build empathy in an increasingly digital world. Quote of the Episode: "The collective IQ of boys when they're in a group is significantly lower than the individual IQ of each boy when they're on their own." Key Insights: AI technology creates new forms of harassment Biological factors influence teen boy behaviour Group dynamics affect decision-making Empathy levels change during puberty Traditional photo safety advice may not be enough Quick response is crucial if incidents occur Professional help may be needed Recovery pathways must be available Resources Mentioned: eSafety Commissioner website Law enforcement guidelines School reporting procedures Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: If Your Child is a Victim: Document everything Report to authorities Seek professional support If Your Child is a Perpetrator: Take immediate action Remove technology access Cooperate with authorities Seek professional help Create accountability pathway For All Parents: Have open discussions about AI risks Review digital safety practices Build empathy despite biological challenges Maintain open communication channels https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/school-life/victoria-police-investigate-allegations-gladstone-park-secondary-college-students-targeted-in-deepfake-online-pictures/news-story/3aae004a2d0ce532d35a16d5378e21bfSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we change environments to support neurodivergent children, everyone benefits. In this preview of Saturday's interview with Professor Adam Guastella from Sydney Children's Hospital, discover why viewing autism as a 'disorder' might be missing the point, and learn how the right support systems can transform outcomes. Plus, understand why insufficient support leads to troubling patterns of bullying and underachievement. Quote of the Episode: "When people have changed environments to be more inclusive to support children with autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, those environments are really good for everyone." Key Insights: Focus should be on changing environments, not just children. Inclusive environments benefit all children. Support needs are both environmental and individual. Better support leads to better educational outcomes. Lack of support correlates with higher bullying rates. Academic underachievement often relates to poor support. Professional collaboration improves outcomes. Early intervention and support are crucial. Resources Mentioned: Sydney Children's Hospital at Westmead Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney Self-Determination Theory research Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: Focus on environmental adaptations that support learning. Build collaborative relationships with support services. Ensure appropriate support systems are in place early. Look for ways to create inclusive spaces that benefit everyone. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should pocket money be linked to chores? What about paying for good grades? From savings percentages to spending rules, discover why traditional pocket money wisdom might be wrong, and learn a value-based approach that actually works. Plus, find out why regular money conversations matter more than any system you choose. Quote of the Episode: "Money is just a store of value, and the conversation really should move away from money to how am I adding value in the world?" Key Insights: Pocket money should be independent of chores. Paying for grades can decrease intrinsic motivation. The Three S's: Spend, Save, Support. Financial conversations matter more than systems. Value creation should precede money focus. Forced savings can build positive habits. Regular money discussions enhance financial literacy Stretch goals encourage saving behaviour Resources Mentioned: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel [affiliate link] Happy Families newsletter Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: Separate pocket money from household responsibilities. Implement the Three S's system (Spend, Save, Support). Have regular conversations about money and value creation. Set achievable saving goals with matching incentives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From classic works to cutting-edge neuroscience, discover the books that have shaped modern parenting wisdom. Join Dr Justin Coulson as he shares his carefully curated list of game-changing parenting books, including why each one matters and how they can transform your family life. Plus, hear Kylie's surprising take on which books might matter most of all. Quote of the Episode: "When I think about the kind of parent that I aspire to be, those two books have had more influence in my life than all the other books combined." Key Insights: Great parenting often comes from continuous learning Different books serve different parenting stages and challenges Some classics remain relevant despite their age Picture books can be as influential as academic texts Cultural perspectives offer valuable parenting insights Understanding child development enhances parenting approach Expert knowledge needs to be balanced with practical application Scientific understanding of child development continues to evolve Resources Mentioned: (NB. These are affiliate links) Between Parent and Child by Haim Ginott Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by John Gottman The Emotional Lives of Teenagers by Lisa Damour Act Natural by Jennifer Traig Hunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff The Myth of the Spoiled Child by Alfie Kohn Unconditional Parenting by Alfie Kohn The Secrets of Happy Families by Bruce Feiler The Teenage Brain by Frances Jensen I'll Do Better Tomorrow, I Promise by Maureen Adamek Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney Action Steps for Parents: Start with one book that addresses your current parenting challenge Balance academic texts with accessible, practical guides Consider including children's books in your parenting resource library Make regular time for parenting education through reading See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much sleep do kids really need? From caffeine myths to screen time truths, sleep specialist Dr Moyra Vandeleur from Royal Children's Hospital unpacks the latest research on children's sleep. Learn why teens naturally stay up late, whether weekend sleep-ins matter, and what the science really says about warm milk before bed. Quote of the Episode: "Sleep, diet and exercise are the three pillars of health - and sleep has only recently been recognized as equally important." Key Insights: Recommended sleep varies by age: Toddlers (1-3): 12-14 hours Preschoolers (3-6): 10-12 hours Primary school (5-12): 10-11 hours Teenagers (13-18): 8-10 hours Individual sleep needs vary Quality, quantity and pattern all matter Teen biology naturally shifts sleep timing later Caffeine affects sleep for about six hours Regular exercise improves sleep quality Screen time before bed doubles sleep difficulties Snoring more than three nights weekly needs medical attention Resources Mentioned: Royal Children's Hospital National Child Health Poll Sleep guidelines Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: Create Screen-Free Wind Down No screens one hour before bed Establish relaxing routines Keep consistent bedtimes Monitor Stimulants Limit caffeine, especially after lunch Watch for hidden caffeine sources Exercise earlier in the day Get Medical Help If: Child seems tired despite adequate sleep Regular snoring occurs Sleep problems persist despite good habits See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a ten-year-old willingly trying alfalfa sprouts to teenagers singing while doing dishes, discover how indirect approaches can transform family challenges. Learn why leaving a book about gut bacteria lying around might work better than years of mealtime battles, and how a simple word game can turn kitchen clean-up into family fun. Quote of the Episode: "Force creates resistance. When you try to make kids eat, as we have for so many years... but instead, she reads it in a book and she's willing to give it a crack because she feels like she's in the driver's seat." Key Insights: Indirect approaches often work better than direct instruction Strategic placement of resources can spark interest Games can make chores disappear into the background Family participation makes tasks more enjoyable Children teach themselves when given the right resources Time and patience often yield better results than pressure Fun and connection matter more than task completion Siblings can create effective solutions Resources Mentioned: The Friends You Don't Know You Have by Laney and Jordan Oldfield Word Association game for family chores Happy Families Action Steps for Parents: For Picky Eaters Place helpful resources where children will find them Allow self-directed discovery Celebrate willing experimentation For Family Chores Create games that involve everyone Focus on fun rather than task completion Use music and creativity to engage participation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.