Show Notes
One in three Australian kids is struggling to read at the expected level. In a classroom of 30, that’s 10 children falling behind. Justin speaks with Rachel Amorosakra from Reading Out of Poverty about what poor literacy looks like for kids, why access to books in the first five years matters so much, and the confronting reality for children in remote communities who may not own a single book. With Book Week approaching, they look at a practical way families can help put culturally appropriate books into the hands of children in East Arnhem Land. KEY POINTS One in three Australian children is not meeting grade-level expectations in reading. Struggling to read affects far more than English. It can make maths, science and other subjects harder too. Falling behind can leave children embarrassed, disengaged and believing they simply aren't smart. The first five years are critical for building vocabulary, imagination and early literacy skills. Books create connection between children and caregivers, not just reading skills. Many children in remote East Arnhem Land communities have little access to books. Reading Out of Poverty is providing culturally appropriate literacy packs to children this Book Week. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Books aren't just about the reading itself. It's about building connection with parents and caregivers.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Reading Out of Poverty Book Week Reading Out of Poverty literacy packs for children in East Arnhem Land Each $25 donation funds one literacy pack containing five age-appropriate books and educational resources. ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Read with your child regularly, especially during the early years. Make books easy to reach and part of everyday family life. Let young children choose books they want to hear again and again. Use stories as time to connect, talk and explore ideas together. This Book Week, consider donating a literacy pack to help a child in East Arnhem Land access books of their own. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More from Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families
What matters most when you walk through your front door? Justin Coulson has spent years helping families build happier lives, and his work has now earned him a University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor's Alumni Excellence Award. But the moment that mattered most wasn't the trophy. It was the reminder that strong families change lives, and the most important work we do often happens at home. Justin and Kylie share the story behind the award, the sacrifices that shaped his career, a hilarious university confession, and the acceptance speech that left a room full of people in tears. KEY POINTS Why strong family relationships shape happier, healthier lives
Worried your teenager is falling behind or has no idea what they want to do after school? You’re not alone, and their future is bigger than their grades. Dr Justin Coulson chats with educator and careers expert Dr Jo Winchester about career pressure, gap years, alternative pathways and the changing world of work. They explore how to support neurodivergent kids, take the pressure off big decisions and help young people find a path that fits who they are. KEY POINTS Why your child’s ATAR doesn’t define their potential
Your five-year-old is hitting other children when they're angry, frustrated or feel something is unfair. You've talked about using words, encouraged them to burn off energy and tried everything you can think of. So what actually helps? Justin and Kylie Coulson explain why young children lash out, how to practise emotional regulation at home and what to do when your child comes home after a difficult day at school. Learn how to set boundaries without shame, build better responses and help your child manage big feelings as their brain develops. KEY POINTS Why five-year-olds struggle to control big emotions
When your child is anxious, overwhelmed or afraid, should you step in or let them work it out? The answer could change how you parent. Justin and Kylie Coulson share five research-backed ways to build resilience in children, from listening without rushing to fix things to letting kids tackle challenges, take safe risks and discover what they're capable of. Because raising resilient kids isn't about toughening them up. It's about giving them the support and confidence to face hard things. KEY POINTS Why feeling cared for and listened to is the foundation of resilience
What happens when you give everything you have and still can’t finish? Justin shares the emotional reality of attempting a 50km charity walk with a 10kg vest, battling an injury and facing the decision to quit. Justin and Kylie reflect on failure, resilience and the courage it takes to admit when you need help. They also share how their Lift the Load challenge raised almost $95,000 for Top Blokes, helping more young men access vital mentoring and support. KEY POINTS Why admitting you need help can be harder than pushing through. The difference between resilience and ignoring your limits. How asking for help can change the outcome. Why we can support others without carrying everything for them. How one person's actions can inspire a whole community. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “It's wonderful when you feel strong and capable that you would offer to carry somebody else's load. But there comes a time where you have to recognise when that load is no longer bearable.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Top Blokes Foundation Lift the Load Challenge Happy Families ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Show your children that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Talk about the difference between giving up and recognising when something needs to change. Check in with the people around you. Ask how they're really going and listen to the answer. Remind your family that supporting someone doesn't mean carrying every burden for them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.