189. Can writing help kids regulate better than talking?

When emotions get tangled up in rumination, kids—and adults—can stay stuck. Expressive writing offers a way out. In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline Buzanko shares how writing helps shift overwhelming emotions into structured thinking, builds resilience, and keeps the brain's self-regulation system online. She explains why freewriting beats silent spiraling, how to introduce this tool to kids, and how a simple daily habit can create lasting emotional change. This episode explores: ·       Why writing regulates better than talking or thinking ·       How to introduce structured emotional writing at home and school ·       Ways to adapt expressive writing for different ages and comfort levels ·       How to use gratitude journals, letters, and storytelling to strengthen resilience Homework Ideas: Personal Trial Spend 15–20 minutes writing freely about an emotional experience for 4 consecutive days. No editing, no structure. Just write. Introduce to Kids ·       Adapt freewriting for different ages: drawing, storytelling, or voice-to-text if needed. ·       Introduce a Feelings Journal with no rules—just a safe space. Gratitude Practice Write 3 things you’re grateful for each night for one week. Try it with kids too. Communication Journal Start a parent-child or teacher-student communication notebook. Quietly pass it back and forth. No pressure, no corrections. Story Rewrites Encourage rewriting tough experiences with a different ending to build emotional flexibility. Want to learn more about helping kids strengthen their emotion regulation skills and problem-solving brains while boosting their confidence, independence, and resilience? Check out my many training opportunities! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/upcoming-events/