#1295 - Why Structure is King (and Love Too) - Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Ever feel like bedtime (or just family life in general) is chaos? In this warm, honest episode of I’ll Do Better Tomorrow, Justin and Kylie share two powerful but simple parenting insights that can transform your family’s connection and calm. From spontaneous expressions of love to creating structured, soothing routines, you’ll walk away inspired to make small changes that lead to big results.

KEY POINTS:

• Don’t wait for a “special moment” to show love. Tell your kids you love and appreciate them spontaneously, even in the middle of everyday moments.
• Structure creates calm. A consistent, enjoyable bedtime routine can lower resistance and help kids feel secure and settled.
• Competence matters. When children know what to do and what to expect, they feel more capable, cooperative, and happy.
• Even partial consistency is better than none. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get it perfect — keep trying.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:

"Structure builds competence. Competence is a basic psychological need. When kids feel like they know what they're supposed to be doing and how to do it, they just feel better about life." — Justin Coulson

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Parental Guidance TV Show, Episode 3 — airing Monday at 7:30 on Nine & 9Now.
• More parenting resources and articles at: happyfamilies.com.au

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Pick a moment today to tell your child you love them and what they mean to you — unprompted.
2. Create or refine a simple bedtime routine that includes calming, positive steps your child enjoys.
3. Aim for consistency, but don’t let perfect be the enemy of good — even small, regular steps make a difference.
4. Notice and celebrate how structure and loving words improve the atmosphere in your home.
5. Share this episode or insight with a friend or family member who could use a little parenting encouragement!

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