When Kids Don’t Want to Talk (and What Actually Works)
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.
--------
12:14
--------
12:14
When Halloween “Hyper” Meets ADHD: What a New Study Reveals About Overdiagnosis
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.
--------
19:22
--------
19:22
Unplugging Childhood (Less Scrolling, More Living) — with Jean Twenge
What happens when our kids spend nine hours a day on screens? Dr Justin Coulson sits down with world-leading researcher Professor Jean Twenge (author of Ten Rules for Raising Kids in a High Tech World) to unpack the hidden costs of our always-online culture — and how parents can reclaim calm, connection and control. From brain changes to “go touch grass” moments, Jean shares the science behind tech overload and practical rules that actually work. KEY POINTS: Why social media under 16 is a terrible idea — and why government regulation matters The shocking truth about teens’ 9-hour daily screen time How smartphones reshape childhood: less sleep, less play, less joy The “basic phone” revolution — why dumb phones might just save your child’s brain How to set firm rules (without becoming the enemy) Real-world freedom: why outdoor play is safer than scrolling The single biggest rule every parent should enforce tonight QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “In ten years we’ll look back at giving kids smartphones at age eleven and think — what were we thinking?” — Professor Jean Twenge RESOURCES MENTIONED: Ten Rules for Raising Kids in a High Tech World — Professor Jean Twenge Heads Up Alliance (Australia) Beginner Phones for Tweens & Teens [Free PDF from Rebecca Sparrow] Wait Until 8th Movement The Light Phone Unplugged Parenthood ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: No phones in bedrooms. Ever. Delay social media until at least 16 — ideally later. Swap smartphones for basic phones to keep kids connected, not consumed. Model healthy tech habits — your kids are watching. Encourage real-world independence — let them walk, play, and explore offline. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
--------
22:20
--------
22:20
Raising Kids Who Don’t Need to Win to Feel Worthy
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.
--------
14:41
--------
14:41
Inside the New Social Media Ban for Aussie Kids [with Julie Inman Grant]
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.
The Happy Families Podcast with Dr. Justin Coulson is designed for the time poor parent who just wants answers now. Every day Justin and his wife Kylie provide practical tips and a common sense approach to parenting that Mums and Dads all over the world are connecting with. Justin and Kylie have 6 daughters and they regularly share their experiences of managing a busy household filled with lots of challenges and plenty of happiness. For real and practicable advice from people who understand and appreciate the challenges of a time poor parent, listen to Justin and Kylie and help make your family happier.
Netherlands