243. Could Oxytocin Be the Missing Piece in Emotional Regulation?

This week on Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline explores the connection between oxytocin, anxiety, emotional regulation, and resilience in kids and teens. Often called the “bonding hormone,” oxytocin helps calm the nervous system, lower cortisol, strengthen emotional safety, and support healthy relationships.

Dr. Caroline shares practical ways adults can naturally boost oxytocin throughout the day using simple moments. She also explains why emotionally safe relationships help children recover from stress faster and why small daily interactions matter more than we think.

You’ll hear easy ideas that can be used in any context and during everyday routines to help children feel connected, regulated, and ready to learn.

This episode is packed with real-life examples, including Caroline’s “6 Mississippi hugs,” sibling love jars, welcome rituals, grounding exercises, and playful connection moments that support calmer, more resilient kids.

Homework Activities

Practice “6 Mississippi hugs” each day Create a morning or after-school welcome ritual Use eye contact, smiles, and warm greetings intentionally Start a sibling or classroom kindness jar Have kids identify acts of kindness they gave or received Add short play or laughter breaks throughout the day Use grounding exercises during transitions Try pair-share discussions or peer support activities Begin transitions with a 1-minute nervous system reset Practice cooperative tasks at home or in class

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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/