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/