Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

We’ve been told that “good” parents never take their eyes off their kids — but what if that’s the very thing making childhood (and parenting) harder? In this fascinating chat, Dr Justin Coulson sits down with Lenore Skenazy — New York Times bestselling author of Free Range Kids and co-founder of Let Grow — whose viral act of letting her 9-year-old ride the NYC subway alone sparked a global movement. Fresh from her TED Talk, Why You Should Spend Less Time With Your Kids, Lenore dismantles the “terrible lie” that children can’t handle life on their own — and reveals why the best learning, confidence, and resilience often happen when parents step back. KEY POINTS The fear-driven parenting trap — and how media and culture made “unsupervised” a dirty word. The myth of “better safe than sorry” and why it’s hurting our kids. How independence builds competence (and true confidence). What happens in a child’s brain when they solve problems without adult help. The staggering truth about “stranger danger” and why it’s wildly overblown. How to make it normal again to just open the door and let kids play. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Independence leads to competence — and competence leads to confidence.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Lenore Skenazy’s TED Talk: Why You Should Spend Less Time With Your Kids Free Range Kids by Lenore Skenazy— New York Times bestseller Let Grow nonprofit: letgrow.org Range by David Epstein ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Open the door. Let your child play or walk somewhere safely on their own. Resist the rescue. When your child faces a small problem, pause before stepping in. Swap “be safe” for “trust yourself.” Let your language build courage, not fear. Talk about freedom. Ask your kids what independence means to them — and listen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing the right care for your little one can feel like walking a tightrope — guilt on one side, exhaustion on the other. In this heartfelt Q&A, Justin and Kylie unpack the real differences between daycare, early learning centres, and family daycare — and what matters most when your child has big emotions or struggles with separation. Whether you’re expecting another baby or just trying to do what’s best, this episode helps you breathe easier and make a choice that feels right for your family. KEY POINTS The real difference between daycare and ELC (and why the labels don’t matter as much as you think). What to look for on your childcare tour: staff ratios, turnover, and outdoor play. Why sometimes not enrolling can be the best choice. How to support a deeply feeling child who struggles with separation. The “choose your hard” mindset — and how it changes everything. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Parenting is hard either way — we just have to choose the kind of hard we’re willing to live with.” RESOURCES MENTIONED What Your Child Needs From You by Dr Justin Coulson Episode #920 Minimising Daycare Drama ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Reflect on why you’re choosing care — not just whether to. When touring, focus less on the shiny buildings and more on the people. Prepare your child for separation with empathy, connection, and practice. Give yourself permission to pick the path that best supports your family’s season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If every evening feels like emotional warfare, you’re not alone. Exhausted, desperate, and out of ideas? In this episode, Justin and Kylie share three powerful ways to turn chaotic, tear-filled nights into calm, connected moments — so bedtime stops being a battle and starts feeling peaceful again. KEY POINTS The three pillars for calmer nights: routine, environment, and presence Why predictability helps kids feel safe (and parents feel sane) The surprising power of dim lights, soft music, and storytime What your kids are really asking for when they “stall” bedtime Simple, loving ways to reconnect — even when you’re out of patience QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “They just want to feel safe and secure and know that they’re loved — that’s the game.” RESOURCES MENTIONED What Your Child Needs From You by Dr Justin Coulson More resources: happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Create a predictable nightly rhythm — same order, same cues. Ditch screens an hour before bed and dim the lights. Be present, not perfect — a calm hug goes further than any rule. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When your kids shut down or seem totally uninterested - whether it’s a conversation, a hobby, or music lessons - it can feel like you’re wasting your time (and money). But this week, Justin and Kylie share two powerful reminders that patience, play, and connection go further than pressure ever will. From a heartwarming drum lesson breakthrough to a car trip conversation that turned a reluctant teen into a chatterbox, this episode will make you rethink what “progress” really looks like in parenting. KEY POINTS Why letting kids explore without rigid outcomes can create lasting motivation. The surprising benefits of range - letting kids tinker, dabble, and find their spark. How to turn “silent car rides” into meaningful, laughter-filled conversations. Why structured lessons and “by the book” learning don’t always lead to love or creativity. The simple mindset shift that makes family connection feel natural again. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “It’s not about an outcome. It’s about giving your kids the space to explore - because you never know where it will lead.” — Kylie Coulson RESOURCES MENTIONED Relationship Rules by Dr Justin Coulson Range by David Epstein ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Let them play. Focus less on outcomes, more on enjoyment and exploration. Ask better questions. Try open-ended conversation starters on long drives or walks. Be patient. Creativity and connection grow slowly—don’t rush the process. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every October 31st, kids go wild - costumes, sugar, excitement - but what if that same energy is quietly shaping ADHD diagnoses? In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Justin and Kylie unpack a fascinating new study showing a 14% spike in ADHD diagnoses on Halloween day. They explore what this says about subjectivity in diagnosis, the risks of overlabelling kids, and how our environments - not just our children - might need rethinking. KEY POINTS: A new Harvard study found ADHD diagnoses rise 14% on Halloween compared to surrounding days. ADHD remains a subjective diagnosis — there’s no blood test or scan to confirm it. Why environment and maturity often explain behaviours mistaken for “disorder.” The real risks of misdiagnosis — medication, labelling, and self-perception. Why it’s time to look at what’s happening around kids, not just within them. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “There isn’t anything wrong with her — she just doesn’t fit the mould of what we consider normal.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: Study: Halloween, ADHD, and Subjectivity in Medical Diagnosis (National Bureau of Economic Research) Searching for Normal by Sami Timimi The Parenting Revolution by Justin Coulson ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Before seeking a diagnosis, consider context — sleep, stress, diet, and school environment. Avoid rushing to label; focus on understanding and supporting your child’s unique needs. Ask questions — about treatment pathways, environment, and alternative perspectives. Create calmer spaces where kids can regulate, play, and thrive. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Professor Jean Twenge, a renowned psychology researcher and author, joins the host to discuss the alarming effects of technology on children. They explore the staggering nine hours teens spend daily on screens and its impact on sleep, play, and overall joy. Jean advocates for delaying social media until at least age 16 and suggests using basic phones to reduce tech overload. With practical rules for parents, she emphasizes the importance of outdoor play and keeping phones out of bedrooms to improve kids' wellbeing.

When your child has to come first—whether it’s up the stairs or at bedtime—it can drive the whole family mad. But there’s more behind that competitiveness than you might think. In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack what’s really going on when kids can’t handle losing, and how to guide them toward healthy confidence instead of constant comparison. KEY POINTS: Why competition and young kids don’t mix The developmental stages that make “winning” feel like a need, not a want How competence and self-worth get tangled together Simple strategies to help kids lose gracefully—and win kindly Why home should be a safe space to “win” without pressure QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “For me to feel good, I shouldn’t have to make you feel bad. That’s the problem with competition for young kids.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: What Your Child Needs From You by Dr Justin Coulson 10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know by Dr Justin Coulson ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Relax—it’s normal for young kids to want to win. Play low-stakes games to help them practise losing. Model losing (and winning) with grace.Teach them to find joy in helping others shine. Let life be the teacher—your job is to provide a soft landing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A world-first law is about to change how Aussie kids use social media — forever.From December 10, children 16 and under will be banned from holding social accounts. But what does that really mean for families? In this special extended episode, Dr Justin Coulson speaks with Julie Inman Grant, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, about the new age-limit legislation — who it covers, how it will work, what fines apply, and what parents must do now to prepare. This is the definitive guide for every parent trying to navigate the online world — with calm, clarity, and confidence. KEY POINTS What the new under-16 social media ban actually includes (and who’s exempt) How eSafety will enforce compliance — and why parents won’t be penalised The five-step “layered safety” approach every platform must follow What’s being done to restrict online porn and explicit content The truth about “nudifying” apps and how schools can respond Simple ways to help your child transition off social media safely QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Parents shouldn’t have to fight billion-dollar companies to keep their kids safe online — the responsibility belongs with the platforms.” — Julie Inman Grant RESOURCES MENTIONED eSafety Commissioner resources & webinars Deep-fake & image-based-abuse school toolkit Beyond Blue, Headspace, Reach Out, Kids Helpline ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Talk with your child about the upcoming change — and why it matters. Help them download photos or memories they want to keep before Dec 10. Set up approved messaging groups to stay connected safely. Bookmark trusted influencers or sites they can follow directly. Visit esafety.gov.au for family checklists and guides. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even parenting experts don’t always nail it. In this heartfelt “I’ll Do Better Tomorrow” episode, Justin and Kylie open up about those moments when good intentions go sideways — and what it really takes to repair connection with your kids. From tearful teenage meltdowns to awkward dinner-table confessions, this is an honest, hope-filled reminder that your love matters more than your mistakes. KEY POINTS: Why even the best parents get it wrong sometimes — and why that’s okay How to apologise with authenticity (without making excuses) The power of “creating a culture” of open, honest conversation Why repair matters more than perfection How strong family relationships let kids talk about anything Teaching teens accountability and empathy through your own example QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “My love for you is bigger than all the walkouts in the world.” — Dr Justin Coulson RESOURCES MENTIONED: The Parenting Revolution by Dr Justin Coulson ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: When conflict happens, pause — don’t react. Say sorry sincerely when you’ve messed up. Focus on rebuilding connection, not being right. Create safe spaces for tricky or blush-worthy conversations. Keep reminding your kids: your love is unconditional. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new study is making headlines — not because kids are on screens too much, but because many can’t stop. Dr Justin Coulson unpacks fresh research linking addictive screen use (not screen time itself) with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts in teens. Learn what “addiction” really means, why it’s not an official diagnosis, and how to protect your child without constant conflict. KEY POINTS The latest data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study shows addictive patterns of screen use — not hours online — are tied to poorer mental health. “Addictive” use means kids feel distress when not online, use screens to regulate emotions, or can’t stop even when it causes problems. There’s no official “screen addiction” diagnosis, but the behaviour patterns are real — and concerning. Justin shares practical strategies using the Three E’s of Effective Discipline to reduce conflict and foster healthy habits. Real-life example: how the Coulson family handled screen boundaries with collaboration, not control. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Time on a device isn’t the problem. It’s when kids can’t stop that their mental health starts to suffer.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, JAMA Psychiatry, June 2024 Screen "addiction" and mental Health - Technosapiens Tools: Freedom App, Forest App, Brick, Unplug Childhood Framework: The Three E’s of Effective Discipline (Explore, Explain, Empower) ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Have a calm conversation about how and why your child uses screens. Model mindful use — show your own limits and honesty about the struggle. Create structure, not punishment — consistent times, agreed limits. Watch for red flags like irritability, secrecy, or big emotions when screens are removed. Offer alternatives — list 10+ enjoyable non-screen activities your child can choose from. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.