The stationery scramble matters… but not as much as your child’s heart. In this powerful back-to-school episode, Justin and Kylie share the real checklist that sets kids up for confidence, calm, friendships, and resilience—without over-engineering the morning routine or forcing a perfect bedtime.

Whether your child is starting school for the first time or changing schools for the fourth time, these strategies make Week 1 smoother and the whole year emotionally healthier.

KEY POINTS

• The basic supplies are not what define success—keep them simple and stress-free.
• Three non-negotiables before Day 1: emotional check-ins, “who’s got your back” planning, and relationship connection.
• Why rehearsing the morning routine and enforcing strict early bedtimes are overrated.
• The 4-Part Real Checklist that changes the entire school year:

1. How Can I Help? — support their goals instead of setting them.
2. Daily Check-In Questions that build resilience, kindness, and social insight.
3. Friendship Audit — understanding who they spend time with and how to support healthy social worlds.
4. Activity Opt-Out Audit — letting kids quit activities that drain them and choose ones that light them up.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“When kids define success on their terms and know we’re in their corner, they’re amazing.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Personal Progress Interviews (PPI)
• Daily Check-In Questions for connection
• Friendship Audit steps
• Family Meeting framework

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Hold a relaxed emotional check-in before school starts (in bed, at the beach, on a walk).
• Clarify “who’s got your back” at school—teacher, counselor, friend, parent.
• Ask one Daily Check-In Question at dinner or bedtime.
• Run a Friendship Audit: learn names, build contact, create unstructured hangouts.
• Run an Activity Opt-Out Audit: “If we weren’t already doing this, would you choose it today?”
• Give permission to drop activities that feel like obligations, not joys.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Smartphones feel inevitable… until you see what early access actually does to a child’s mental health, sleep, and happiness. In this episode, Dr Justin & Kylie Coulson break down new research from Pediatrics and share the family standard that finally ended the phone wars in their home (after one very big mistake).

KEY POINTS

• New study: earlier smartphones = worse outcomes for kids.

• The four real reasons parents give phones (and why they’re flawed).

• Why “safety” doesn’t require a smartphone.

• How to replace phones with smarter solutions (incl. dumb phones + watches).

• The research consensus: delay improves outcomes.

• The family rule that ends entitlement (“when you can afford it…”).

• Boundaries if you already handed over a phone (it’s not too late).

• The real question: approval now or wellbeing later?

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Kids don’t need smartphones — they need smart parents. And smart parents give their kids dumb phones.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Pediatrics research on smartphone age & outcomes (referenced in episode)

• SpaceTalk Watch

• G-Mee Phone

• Free Range Kids by Lenore Skenazy

• Lisa Damour — Adolescent Psychology Resources

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Define the real problem you’re solving (safety, logistics, social connection, or training).

2. Offer alternatives (dumb phone, landline, watch).

3. Create a family standard — e.g. “When you can pay for it, you can have it.”

4. If they already have a phone:

   • Bedrooms & bathrooms = no-phone zones

   • No phones at meals or short car rides

   • Time limits & age limits on social media

   • Review + scale back where possible

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Screens, school, and AI are about to collide—and families will feel it first. In this fast, punchy episode, Justin breaks down four major trends set to hit parents in 2026: hybrid schooling, AI chatbots, the messy social media ban, and the rise of screen-free childhood. If you want to understand what’s coming—and how it will impact your kids—start here.

KEY POINTS

• Hybrid Education Exodus: homeschooling + online learning + co-ops = flexible mash-ups
• AI Goes Critical: chatbots linked to self-harm, loneliness & regulatory crackdowns
• Social Media Ban Backfires: VPNs, loopholes & vulnerable teens losing support
• Screen-Free Childhood Surges: parents push for play, device reduction & analogue life

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“If you find ways every single day to genuinely connect with your kids, your relationship will flourish—this year, next year, and every year after.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Federal under-16 social media legislation
• eSafety Commission actions & guidance
• Alternative schooling, homeschooling & co-op models
• AI chatbot research around teen mental health

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Watch for AI chatbots disguised as “companions” or “friends”
2. Review school tech policies + device expectations for K-6
3. Consider flexible learning pathways if school is breaking your child
4. Prioritise screen-free play for under-12s
5. Keep tech conversations calm, connected and ongoing—not punitive

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new year brings a reality check: what actually changed for parents last year - and what didn’t? In this high-energy episode, Justin and Kylie review last year’s big parenting predictions (AI, social media, homeschooling, boys, cost of living, and more), celebrate the surprising hits, admit the misses, and tee up what’s coming next. Fast, fun, insightful - and wildly relevant for every parent stepping into 2026.

KEY POINTS

• Which predictions landed in 2025 (and why they mattered for families)
• Where Justin was hilariously wrong (TikTok + travel = oops)
• The AI-powered parenting revolution - now real, mainstream, and everywhere
• Homeschooling’s massive surge and what’s driving it
• The global social media crackdown led by Australia - and why the rollout is bumpy
• Why boys still need more support - and the culture shift that hasn’t arrived yet
• YouTube’s silent dominance and what it means for kids and screens
• Cost of living, family strain, and the myth of intergenerational living

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“I was one hundred percent correct—AI has become a mainstream parenting assistant.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Skylight Calendar (meal planning + calendar tool)
• 8 Game-Changing Predictions for 2025 [Article]
• Today Show segment on homeschooling statistics
• Government announcements surrounding the under-16 social media ban

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Audit your family’s tech habits, screen time, and parental controls
2. Explore AI as a support tool (homework, routines, meal planning)
3. Stay informed on school and homeschooling trends - more families are switching
4. Watch for changes in social media regulations and platform age limits
5. Prioritise conversations about boys’ wellbeing - academic, emotional, social

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 if it’s not your favourite), how to make it meaningful and manageable, and why it’s one of the simplest ways to build connection, confidence, and emotional regulation in your child.

KEY POINTS

• Play is not a luxury—it’s essential.
  Play builds emotional intelligence, connection, and social skills better than almost anything else.
• It’s not about doing it ‘right’.
  Play works best when it’s spontaneous, simple, and mutually enjoyable—not when it’s forced or scripted.
• The emotional impact is profound.
  Play regulates emotions, reduces tension, strengthens relationships, and helps kids feel seen, heard, and valued.
• The secret is in the interaction.
  What makes play powerful is the back-and-forth: the jokes, the giggles, the shared creativity—not the activity itself.
• A little goes a long way.
  Just 5–10 minutes of intentional play can fill your child’s emotional cup and help them play independently afterwards.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Play is not about perfection—it’s about connection and presence.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Happy Families Membership – parenting tools & webinars
• happyfamilies.com.au – resources for raising emotionally intelligent kids
• Shift by Ethan Kross

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Find a 5–10 minute window each day
   You don’t need hours. Commit to short, fully present bursts of play—no phones, no multitasking.
2. Gamify the mundane
   Turn routines into playful challenges: “Can you hop to the bathroom on one foot?” or “Let’s race to tidy up.”
3. Let your child lead
   Ask: “How could we make this more fun?” Give them a sense of autonomy and watch their creativity bloom.
4. Prioritise connection over performance
   You’re not there to entertain—you’re there to engage. Drop the pressure, enjoy the moment.
5. Repeat. Consistency is the win.
   Over time, this builds emotional strength, stronger relationships, and memories that last.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are your phone habits impacting your child’s growth?
We all know kids and screens don’t mix well—but what about parents and screens? A compelling new study has uncovered a strong link between a mother’s screen time and her child’s developmental outcomes. In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the latest research on "technoference" and what happens to our children when our eyes are glued to our devices. The results may just change the way you use your phone—especially around your kids.

KEY POINTS:

• Study Summary: Japanese research of ~4,000 mother-child pairs found that more than one hour of screen use by mums in front of their children correlates with lower language and social development.
• Two Hours or More: Greater than two hours was associated with lower global development outcomes.
• Technoference: The distraction of devices interrupts “serve and return” interactions—vital for healthy child development.
• Modelling Matters: Kids mimic their parents—mums who use screens more are more likely to have kids who use them too.
• TV vs. Devices: Passive screen time (TV) is less harmful than interactive, overstimulating device use—but still not ideal.
• Screen Time ≠ Quality Learning: Despite nostalgic memories of “learning” from Sesame Street, research shows TV is a poor teacher compared to real-world engagement.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:

"Screens are a hollow imitation of real life... real development happens in person-to-person, face-to-face interactions."

RESOURCES:

• The study published in Nature Scientific Reports (March 2025)
• Unplugged Parenthood: Reducing Screen Time to Strengthen Family Connections [Article]
• Happy Families website: happyfamilies.com.au

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Be Present: Put down your phone when you're with your child—especially in those early years.
2. Set Boundaries: Limit both your own and your child’s screen time with simple routines (e.g., no phones at the table or during playtime).
3. Model Mindful Use: Show kids what healthy tech habits look like—because they’re watching.
4. Prioritise Engagement: Make time for face-to-face chats, shared play, and reading together—real-life interactions build real brains.
5. Use Screens Intentionally: If you need a break, opt for TV over devices, and choose age-appropriate, narrative-driven content.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boys take risks. They push limits. They scare us. But underneath all that danger is an ancient drive to grow up and belong. In this deeply eye-opening conversation with Dr Arne Rubinstein, we unpack why boys behave this way, the missing “rite of passage” that modern culture has abandoned, and what parents can do today to help boys become grounded, respectful, and emotionally mature young men. This episode delivers clarity, relief, and practical steps every family needs.

KEY POINTS

• Boys are wired for risk — if adults don’t create safe challenges, they’ll create their own.

• Cultures worldwide share four rite-of-passage elements: storytelling, challenge, visioning, and honouring.

• Without that process, boys can grow into adult men with boy psychology (self-centred, entitled, emotionally volatile).

• Dads, mums, and male role models each play a critical role — but the village matters for every boy.

• Early parenting is crucial: strong relationships, fair boundaries, shared stories, and responsibilities build maturity.

• Single mums can create support through uncles, mentors, friends, and community.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Every boy will go through a rite of passage. The question is whether he creates it himself — or whether we create something appropriate for him.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Dr Arne Rubinstein — Rites of Passage Institute

• The Making of Men (book)

• Happy Families Bringing Up Boys Summit

• The Miss-Connection Summit is also available
• Sign up here to be the first to news about Justin's new book 'Boys'

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Create 1:1 connection time — device-free and regular.

2. Share stories from your own adolescence — including failures and learnings.

3. Acknowledge strengths — notice what goes right.

4. Teach reflection before correction — ask what they think first.

5. Pair privileges with responsibility — avoid entitlement.

6. Build the village — involve mentors, relatives, teachers, coaches.

7. Separate the child from the behaviour — “I love you, but this isn’t okay.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever been halfway through a parenting reel thinking *“Oh wow, this is gold”… only to realise it’s actually terrible advice dressed up with pretty music and a pastel background? We’ve been there too. In today’s episode, Justin and Kylie unpack six pieces of popular parenting advice they’re choosing to ignore forever—and why you should too. From controlled crying to timeouts, “spoiling” kids with love, and the classic “just ignore the tantrum” strategy, we’re calling out the myths that sound helpful but harm connection. This episode is your permission slip to parent with heart, not hacks.

KEY POINTS:

• Controlled crying is not independence training — It misunderstands attachment and ignores babies’ real needs.
• Timeouts don’t teach, they isolate — Punishment in disguise erodes trust and connection.
• Responsiveness isn’t spoiling — Kids thrive when we tune in, not tune out.
• Ignoring tantrums doesn’t make them go away — Empathy teaches emotional regulation.
• “Seen and not heard” is still hanging around (and still harmful) — Kids need space to be curious, push back respectfully, and develop their voice.
• Self-soothing is a myth for little ones — Kids learn to calm down with us, not alone.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“Abandoning children in their most vulnerable moments teaches them nothing—except that our love is conditional.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Daniel Siegel
• Attachment research by Dr. Allan Schore

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Challenge bad advice — When you hear advice that feels off, trust your gut and check the research.
2. Choose connection over correction — When your child is distressed, meet them with empathy instead of isolation.
3. Be responsive, not reactive — Show up consistently so your child learns to regulate through co-regulation.
4. Make space for their voice — Let your kids respectfully question, push back, and express themselves.
5. Ditch the naughty chair — Find real discipline strategies that teach, not punish.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most family goals sound great… and quietly disappear by February.

In this short, honest episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share why family goal-setting usually falls apart — and the simple shifts that actually make goals work. From kids’ fitness goals to holidays, habits, and hopes for the year ahead, this episode shows how buy-in, accountability, and involvement turn good intentions into real change.

If you want goals your kids don’t just agree to — but actually own — start here.

KEY POINTS

• Why top-down family goals almost always fail
• The power of bottom-up buy-in (especially with older kids)
• How accountability and visible progress keep motivation alive
• Why parents must support goals without becoming the “goal police”
• The overlooked ingredient that makes family goals stick: involvement

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“The goals that work aren’t the ones parents announce — they’re the ones families build together.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Family meetings (What’s going well? What’s not? What should we focus on?)
• Happy Families website: happyfamilies.com.au

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Hold a short family meeting and let kids lead the goal ideas
• Choose one goal that feels challenging but achievable
• Set clear check-in points to notice progress
• Support the system — don’t police the outcome
• Get involved alongside your kids, especially when it’s hard

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's our final episode for 2025! With another year in the rear view mirror, its a very special I'll Do Better Tomorrow, as Justin and Kylie wrap up the year.

Topics discussed include:

• Justin's reflection on the Bondi terror attack.
• Kylie's thoughts on the recent New Zealand cycling trip, and persevering through hard things.
• Digging deep when we're dealing with the day to day mundane.
• Justin and Kylie's highlights of 2025.

Merry Christmas from the Happy Families Podcast team - Justin, Kylie, Mim and JR! We hope you have a wonderful season with those nearest and dearest to you.

Thank you for making the Happy Families Podcast the most downloaded parenting podcast in Australia this year.

We'll be back in 2026 with more daily parenting advice to help make your family happier.

As always visit the Happy Families website for more resources, or join the conversation on our Facebook page.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the Christmas your kids remember most isn’t about what’s under the tree — but how it felt to be together?

In this episode, we unpack the four gifts children truly need at Christmas — the ones you can’t buy, wrap, or return — and how letting go of perfection might be the very thing that brings more joy, calm, and connection into your home this season.

KEY POINTS

• Why chasing the “perfect” Christmas often leaves parents exhausted and grumpy
• How peace doesn’t mean quiet — it means letting go of pressure
• Why kids crave presence more than presents
• How playfulness creates connection without deep talks or big emotions
• The role of purpose in giving Christmas meaning beyond consumerism
• Why imperfection might be the secret to a more memorable day

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Perfection isn’t what makes Christmas magical. Peace, presence, playfulness, and purpose do.”

RESOURCES

• Born This Happy Morning
• Luke Chapter 2 & Matthew (The Christmas story)
• Take Back Christmas [Article]
• 10 Easy Traditions That Can Make Christmas Meaningful For Your Family [Article]

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Release one expectation that’s creating stress this Christmas
• Put your phone away for a block of uninterrupted family time
• Plan one playful activity just for fun (games, jokes, silliness encouraged)
• Talk as a family about what Christmas means to you — beyond gifts

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.