Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

What happens when a child falls years behind in reading and writing? This week’s episode of The Happy Families Podcast dives into one of the most talked-about moments from Parental Guidance: the Life School parents’ children struggling with basic literacy. Justin and Kylie share why reading matters so much, how to help children who resist school and learning, and practical steps for parents who feel overwhelmed when their child is falling behind. If you’ve ever worried about your child’s progress—or felt judged by others—this conversation will give you hope, empathy, and a clear path forward. KEY POINTS: Reading is a gateway to learning, and kids need to see, hear, and engage with books daily. Many families lack books in the home—screens have crowded them out. Literacy struggles can stem from earlier traumatic or negative schooling experiences, creating resistance. Avoidance of learning challenges often worsens anxiety; action and support are crucial. There