Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Is it ADHD… or something else entirely? This episode dives into one of the most debated topics in parenting and child psychology. Dr Justin Coulson answers a heartfelt question from a concerned parent: Should I pursue a formal ADHD diagnosis for my child — or are there better first steps to take? If you're feeling overwhelmed by symptoms, advice, and conflicting opinions, this conversation will help you slow down,...

When the kids are relentless, defiant, or just downright exhausting, do you give in? Do you clamp down? Or is there a better way? In this episode of the Happy Families Podcast, Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the three most common parenting responses to challenging behaviour — and make the case for a third, more effective path. You'll laugh, reflect, and come away with a powerful tool to help you parent with confidence, clari...

She thought parenting would be homemade cookies, flouncy dresses, and humming while folding laundry… but instead, she’s throwing plastic cups at walls.

In this hilarious, vulnerable, and unexpectedly heartwarming episode, Justin speaks with Victoria Vanstone—author, podcast host, and recovering party girl—about what happens when the perfect mum you imagined never actually shows up. From shouting matches and...

I'll Do Better Tomorrow: The Power of Teaching Kids About Emotions
Kids don’t magically learn emotional regulation—they need to be taught.
In this special Friday episode of I’ll Do Better Tomorrow, Justin and Kylie reflect on a big week: a powerful email from the past, and a meaningful family conversation about emotions. They share how their weekly “teaching tradition” helps their kids understan...

What happens when you strip your smartphone of its “smart”?
In this Doctor’s Desk deep dive, Justin and Kylie unpack a groundbreaking new study showing what really happens when people block mobile internet on their smartphones. The results? Better focus. Improved wellbeing. Healthier screen habits. Drawing on the science, personal experience, and insights from Jonathan Haidt and game designers themselves, thi...

 What if failing to be the perfect parent was the point all along?

In this raw and deeply moving preview episode, Justin and Kylie unpack the heart, humour, and humanity behind Mumming—a memoir by Victoria Vanstone about a year of trying (and failing) to be a better parent. From shouty moments to terrifying near-loss, Victoria’s journey reminds us that imperfection is part of the gig. Because parenting isn&rsq...

What do you do when your anxiety has become their anxiety?

In this listener Q&A, Justin and Kylie respond to Amy from Melbourne—a self-diagnosed helicopter parent whose 9-year-old daughter now struggles with fear and risk aversion. With compassion and practical insight, they break down the difference between risky and dangerous play, explore the impact of parental anxiety, and offer real-world strategies to build your chi...

“I Don’t Like Playing with My Kids” – Why Play Still Matters

If the idea of playing Barbies or dragons makes you groan… you’re not alone.

In this episode, Justin and Kylie tackle a parenting confession that many are afraid to admit: “I don’t like playing with my kids.” Drawing from emotional intelligence research and real-life experience, they unpack why play matters (even...

Prawns, Perspective & Parenting: Why the Silly Moments Matter Most

Sometimes the most ridiculous memories become the most meaningful.
In this heartfelt Friday episode, Justin and Kylie reflect on family, connection, and the unexpected power of silly traditions—like reenacting a 50-year-old prawn-and-tomato-sauce date. From celebrating milestones to navigating teenage heartbreak, this episode reminds us that family life...

What if the most powerful thing you can do as a parent… is let go?

Today’s episode dives into one of the most radical and relieving ideas in parenting: trusting your child’s natural development. Drawing on powerful research from McGill University, Dr Justin explores why pushing less can actually lead to more—less stress, more confidence, fewer behavioural issues, and healthier relationships. Learn how to sp...

Join us as we dive into the world of "Granny Core" — a charming, nostalgic approach to helping kids disconnect from screens by embracing slow, hands-on, screen-free hobbies. From knitting and baking to treehouse building and backyard adventures, this episode is packed with 20 timeless activities that promote creativity, connection, and calm. If you're tired of fighting the screen-time battle, this list is your new best friend...

In today’s Q&A episode, Elizabeth from Melbourne shares a heartbreaking concern: her 7-year-old son is engaging in inappropriate behaviours towards girls at school. We unpack this tricky topic with sensitivity and seriousness—discussing how to draw firm boundaries, have safe and open conversations, and when to seek professional help. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to respond when your child crosses a lin...

It's time to address the age-old question: Do children make us happy? Backed by powerful research and personal stories, Kylie and Justin explore the paradox of parenting—how our kids can simultaneously be our greatest joy and our biggest challenge. Featuring insights from happiness researchers like Daniel Kahneman, Paul Bloom, and Roy Baumeister, the conversation moves from exhaustion and conflict to purpose, meaning, and unc...

Dr. Justin Coulson speaks with former Disney executive and GameTruck founder Scott Novis about the hidden dangers of video games—and how parents can help their kids develop a healthy relationship with gaming. From understanding addictive design to replacing screen time with real-world connection, this conversation delivers practical, real-world solutions for every family navigating the digital age.

KEY POINTS

In this lighthearted episode of the Happy Families Podcast, we revisit some of the funniest and most unexpected things kids say when learning about where babies come from. Inspired by our interview last week with parenting educator Michelle Mitchell and her book Where Do Babies Come From?, we share some laugh-out-loud stories that remind us how curious—and hilarious—kids can be. We also reflect on the importance of...

A major new report from the OECD has revealed shocking insights into how screen use is shaping children's lives—and not for the better. In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the disturbing statistics, explain the real-world impact of screens on kids’ mental health, relationships, and development, and offer practical, age-specific strategies to help parents take back control. From toddlers to teens, this is th...

Is your child’s gaming habit harmless fun—or something more serious? In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share highlights from an eye-opening conversation with Scott Novis, a former Disney and Nintendo gaming executive. They discuss how modern games are designed to hook kids using sophisticated psychological techniques, what parents can do to support healthier habits, and the small shifts that make big differences...

What do you do when every interaction with your child feels like a battle? Today we respond to a mum’s heartfelt question about her 11-year-old daughter, who is struggling with screaming, lying, and constant conflict. We explore the psychological needs behind difficult behaviour and share practical, compassionate strategies for rebuilding connection—especially when all you feel like doing is correcting.

Is your child’s schedule packed from morning to night—or are they struggling with too much downtime? Today we explore the pressure parents feel to provide enrichment, the unintended consequences of overscheduling, and why finding the "sweet spot" of activities matters. Plus, we give practical, compassionate guidance to help families strike a healthy balance between stimulation, growth, and the simple joys of being a kid...