Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

#1266 - Prawns, Perspective & Parenting: Why the Silly Moments Matter Most


Listen Later

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 isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, being all-in, and seeing our children through a lens of love.

KEY POINTS

  • Family memories don’t have to be perfect to matter.
    A chaotic dinner with bad food can become a treasured story if shared with love and laughter.
  • Perspective is everything—especially with big emotions.
    When a teenager's heartbreak feels overwhelming, a shift in perspective can transform frustration into compassion.
  • Silly moments build strong families.
    Reenactments, impromptu plays, or saying “yes” to your child’s wild idea create connection and shared joy.
  • The long game in parenting matters.
    Showing up, sticking it out, and staying connected builds legacy—not just for now, but for generations.
  • Every child’s intensity is a strength in disguise.
    Big emotions may feel inconvenient in the moment—but they’re often the foundation for deep love and character.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“We think we’re supposed to have perfect families—prawns and tomato sauce is not a perfect dish. But that’s the stuff of family.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

  • The Parenting Revolution by Dr. Justin Coulson
  • This is Connection – book mentioned by a listener
  • Shift by Ethan Kross – for understanding and managing emotions
  • happyfamilies.com.au

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

  1. Say Yes to the Silly Stuff
    When your kids ask to put on a play, reenact a moment, or share something ridiculous—join in.
  2. Shift Your Perspective
    If you’re feeling frustrated, try seeing the situation through someone else’s eyes—especially your child’s.
  3. Celebrate the Everyday
    You don’t need a 50th anniversary to make memories. Make ordinary moments extraordinary by being present.
  4. Notice the Strength in Emotion
    Big feelings can be exhausting—but they reveal depth, empathy, and passion. Name the strengths behind the storm.
  5. Invest TIME
    Kids spell love T-I-M-E. Whatever else you have going on this weekend, spend it with them.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy FamiliesBy Dr Justin Coulson

  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9

4.9

137 ratings


More shows like Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

View all
Mamamia Out Loud by Mamamia Podcasts

Mamamia Out Loud

590 Listeners

This Glorious Mess by Mamamia Podcasts

This Glorious Mess

38 Listeners

No Filter by Mamamia Podcasts

No Filter

595 Listeners

Ladies, We Need To Talk by ABC listen

Ladies, We Need To Talk

340 Listeners

Parental As Anything by ABC listen

Parental As Anything

41 Listeners

The Imperfects by Hugh van Cuylenburg, Ryan Shelton & Josh van Cuylenburg

The Imperfects

442 Listeners

Beyond the Bump by Sophie Pearce & Jayde Couldwell

Beyond the Bump

93 Listeners

Lise and Sarah by Those Two Girls

Lise and Sarah

49 Listeners

Something To Talk About by Stellar

Something To Talk About

106 Listeners

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show by LiSTNR

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show

95 Listeners

Pop Culture Parenting by Dr Billy Garvey, Nick McCormack

Pop Culture Parenting

74 Listeners

But Are You Happy? by Mamamia Podcasts

But Are You Happy?

48 Listeners

ADHD Mums by Jane McFadden

ADHD Mums

13 Listeners

The Good Enough Dad with Maggie Dent by Maggie Dent

The Good Enough Dad with Maggie Dent

8 Listeners

MID by Mamamia Podcasts

MID

90 Listeners