Overpowering Emotions Podcast: Helping Children and Teens Manage Big Feels (Dr. Caroline Buzanko)

I have been talking all about how to make the brain more resistant to anxiety and last week I talked about fear extinction. This week I talk about how we can enhance that safety learning: through exercise. BUT, the timing has to be right. Listen to hear more!

You can also WATCH this week's episode!

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/

In today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I address the questions: 

What is the difference between normal worry and anxiety?

and

When should kids get help?

Anxiety and worry are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. While both can be unpleasant and unwanted emotions, understanding the differences between normal worry and anxiety is essential for parents to understand so they know how to best support their children’s emotional well-being and resilience.

Often, parents wait too long to get their child support. Some of the time it’s because they are told their child will grow out of it. Or they might not even realize that their child is experiencing anxiety. Other times, their child is experiencing normal worries but parents become overly concerned and pathologize the situation. 

Understanding the difference between normal worry and anxiety can also help children better manage their emotions – especially when parents know how to respond in helpful ways.

Knowing the difference between normal worry and anxiety can also help children, teens, and their families better communicate their feelings to others. If they are experiencing anxiety, they may need to communicate their symptoms and needs to a mental health professional. If they are experiencing a normal worry, they may need to communicate their concerns and seek support or advice from a trusted adult.

Be sure to tune in to today’s episode to learn more about normal worries and anxiety and when to get kids' help. Knowing the answer to these questions is critical to help raise emotionally well-adjusted, resilient kids!

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/

We all want to help kiddos reach their full potential. However, when we put them under too much pressure, there can be serious consequences for kids.

While we certainly want to set expectations for children and encourage them, the pressure to constantly perform well in any and all parts of life can lower their motivation and lead to mental health problems. Especially when kids feel like every test or every performance is going to make or break their future success.

You can also watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/B07lMxmXY5g

In today's episode, I had the incredible opportunity to chat with Dr. Christopher Thurber. We discuss findings from  his new book, The Unlikely Art of Parental Pressure: A Positive Approach to Pushing Your Child to Be Their Best Self including the ways that parental pressure can be harmful and what to do instead. Dr. Thurber shares practical examples that we all can apply in our work with families (or as parents ourselves!).

Be sure to tune in to today's episode.

Learn more about Dr. Christopher Thurber:

Dr. Christopher Thurber enjoys creating and sharing original content for business leaders, independent educators, and youth development professionals. He is a board-certified clinical psychologist, educator, author, and father. Chris earned his BA from Harvard University in 1991 and a PhD in clinical psychology from UCLA in 1997.

A dedicated teacher from a young age, Chris has more than 30 years of experience working with camps and independent schools. He has written numerous book chapters and scholarly articles on leadership, homesickness, and youth development. An awardwinning contributor to Camping Magazine and Camp Business, Chris has also shared his opinions and expertise on national and international radio, television, print media, podcasts, and webinars, including the Today Show, NPR, and CNN.

In 2007, Chris co-founded ExpertOnlineTraining.com, which quickly became the Internet’s most popular and respected educational resource for youth leaders. The hundreds of thousands of subscribers to this library of video training modules come from 43 different countries. Chris also coauthored the critically acclaimed Summer Camp Handbook with Dr. Jon Malinowski. This award-winning preparatory resource was recently translated into Mandarin to support the burgeoning camp movement in China. Chris also designed the only empirically-validated homesickness prevention program, called Prep4Camp.

During the academic year, Chris serves as one of the psychologists and instructors at Phillips Exeter Academy, an independent secondary school. He and his wife, Simonida, an analytical chemist and musician, live in New Hampshire with their sons Danilo, born in 2002, and Sava, born in 2004. You can learn more about Chris, and access all of his publications and resources, by visiting his website, DrChrisThurber.com.

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/

Today is a jam-packed episode in which I cover the most essential part of helping our children develop solid emotion regulation skills.

A key point I have talked about repeatedly is that kiddos need to learn to cope with their emotions and build resilience through the right experiences. Today I talk specifically about how important stress inoculation is for kiddos to learn to manage big feelings.

When kids are allowed to stay within their comfort zones and adults walk on eggshells to avoid any big emotional or behavioural meltdowns, we are setting these kiddos up for failure. They never learn how to cope. They lose the chance to practice and grow

The focus on today then is about setting up the right experiences so that kiddos can cope with their frustration, grief, disappointment, anger, worries, and other big feelings.

And learn helpful ways to respond (instead of giving up, freaking out, or avoiding).

I also talk about how important stress inoculation is to self-esteem, confidence, and competence.

Don’t miss today’s episode – it is the foundation for our success to support children and youth’s emotion regulation.

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/

In today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I discuss the profound link between trauma and attachment and how these intertwined factors shape our relationships, well-being, and capacity for growth. I will discuss how trauma can disrupt attachment processes, leading to a wide range of emotional and relational challenges. I also discuss the significance of creating safe and nurturing environments to support children and teens affected by trauma, fostering secure attachments as a pathway to healing and resilience.

Whether you are a parent, caregiver, therapist, or simply interested in the complexities of human connection, tune in to uncover the powerful connection between trauma and attachment, and discover how understanding this dynamic can empower children, teens, individuals, and families on their journey towards healing and resilience.

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/

As I start looking at other specific anxiety-related challenges, today I focus on Hoarding Disorder.

While I take a transdiagnostic approach and focus on the process of anxiety itself, there are some anxiety-related challenges that require additional considerations. And hoarding is one of them.

Today is Part I of this series where I take a look at hoarding and what maintains hoarding behaviours. Once we understand the maintaining variables, we can deep dive into what to do to help.

Feel free to also WATCH HERE

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/

In today's episode I talk all about the relationship between anxiety and sleep. And how we need to address sleep to be effective in any anxiety management we do!

Check out this SLEEP RESOURCE to help set up the right sleeping environment for your children.

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/

In this recast episode of  Overpowering Emotions,  as we continue our series on parental traps that exacerbate children's anxiety, I discuss conditional safety learning. I first discuss the generalizability of fears and how learned fears - even those not consciously remembered - can significantly influence a child's perception of safety and danger.

Using relatable examples, like a fear of dogs stemming from an early bite or anxiety about visiting the dentist after a painful experience, I illustrate how our brain forms associations that contribute to anxiety. These associations often generalize, leading to broad, pervasive fears that extend beyond the initial trigger.

This is where the concept of conditional safety learning becoms crucial. That is, where safety is understood only in specific contexts or in the presence of certain cues. This type of learning is highly context-dependent and does not generalize, posing challenges in treating anxiety effectively.

I emphasize the importance of cultivating a sense of unconditional safety in children. I discuss strategies for breaking the cycle of 'yeah, buts' in safety learning and how to encourage a broader, more resilient understanding of safety that isn't tied to specific conditions or contexts.

Listen in to gain insights into the complexities of fear and safety learning in children and how to approach these challenges to foster a healthier, more adaptable response to anxiety-provoking situations.

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline is joined by award-winning choreographer and dance educator Leslie Kuny. Together, they explore the connection between structured activities, risk-taking, and resilience in children and teens. Leslie shares her insights on how these activities, like dance, can be transformative, teaching kids to embrace challenges, take healthy risks, and build a growth mindset.

Tune in to learn how letting experts guide the way can empower young people to set realistic expectations, overcome setbacks, and develop resilience that goes beyond the dance floor or playing field, equipping them with skills for life.

Prefer to watch on YouTube?

About Leslie Kuny

Leslie Cooney is an award-winning choreographer, dance educator, and co-founder of Ignite Dance Center in Surrey, British Columbia. With over 20 years of experience, Leslie brings a unique blend of honest feedback and joy to her teaching, fostering supportive and empowering environments for dancers. A graduate of Grant MacEwan and Simon Fraser University's Dance programs, she is also a Level 2 certified Adjudicator with Canadian Dance Leadership and a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. Leslie passionately rejects outdated norms of dance education rooted in shame and guilt, believing that dance is not just an art form but a training ground for life. Her human-first approach, rooted in humor and joy, empowers dancers to achieve greatness on and off the stage. A published author in the collaborative book Pursuit 365: Business Edition, Leslie loves to travel with her husband and has a deep-seated love for musical theatre and comedy.

Connect with Leslie

Instagram @lesliekuny

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lesliekuny/ 

lesliekuny@gmail.com

lesliekuny.com

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/

Delve into the heart of mindful parenting with our enlightening podcast episode featuring Dr. Lauren Pasqua, a clinical psychologist specializing in children and families experiencing intense emotions and behaviors. We unpack the pivotal role of family dynamics in nurturing resilience, with a deep dive into how dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can offer practical strategies for parents. Discover how validating experiences, embracing a dialectical mindset, and employing DBT skills can enhance emotional intelligence and resilience in both parents and children.

We provide actionable insights for fostering a home environment where every family member thrives. Listen now to transform your approach to parenting with mindfulness and resilience at its core.

About Dr. Lauren Pasqua:

Dr Pasqua is founder and executive director of Connections Child & Family Center in Northwest Houston. With 15+ years of experience, Dr. Pasqua, a licensed clinical psychologist, and her team of experienced clinicians provide counseling and evaluations for children and families locally and across Texas. To address a public health crisis of higher than national average suicide rates in the local county, Dr. Pasqua led her team to create an adherent DBT program for teens and families; the first and only one in Northwest Houston. This unique program focuses on intensive outpatient support for teens with significant behavioral and emotional dyscontrol. Dr. Pasqua and her team are on a mission to help parents build a validating environment to support their teen in healthy coping and mental resilience.

Check out these Resources

https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Teen-Who-Intense-Emotions/dp/1626251886https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Teen-Who-Intense-Emotions/dp/1626251886

Families can get immediate access to a webinar on basic DBT skills for parents. https://exceptional-author-7245.ck.page/6e50b3656b

Get in touch with Dr. Pasqua

connectionsfamilycenter.com

https://www.instagram.com/connectionscfc/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-pasqua-psy-d-9858511a/

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/

Today on #OverpoweringEmotions, learn about the internal cues of emotion that drive behaviours and how to guide kids to recognize these to manage emotions and build resilience.

Other things mentioned

Explaining anxiety to kids: https://youtu.be/25dNVjgpkd8

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/

As parents, educators, and mental health professionals, we all want to be helpful to the children and teens in our life. And we all want to help them manage their anxiety effectively. However, in us wanting them to feel better, sometimes our actions can unintentionally make their anxiety worse. In today's episode, I discuss the common traps that caregivers (and all adults, really) fall into that can maintain anxiety in children and teenagers.

It's important to understand that knowing what maintains anxiety is far more crucial than figuring out where it came from. Pinpointing the exact cause of anxiety can be difficult, if not impossible, given the way our brain works (and its tendency to make irrational associations). However, understanding what keeps it going is essential. Because there is something we can do about it. As caregivers, educators, or mental health professionals, we cannot effectively help our anxious children and teens if we're not aware of the variables - including the things that we are doing - that are maintaining their anxiety. 

We need to stop falling into these traps if we are ever going to see progress with our kids.

This informative episode is essential to explore the traps that adults can fall into that maintain anxiety in children and teenagers. Learn how to identify and address these variables to help children and teens manage their anxiety better. 

Prefer to WATCH? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REUte_yLpqY)

*IMPORTANT! Sometimes people have a hard time listening to this message. It's crucial to understand that a strong, securely attached relationship with adults is foundational for any strategies I discuss to be effective. This approach is not about leaving children to "suck it up" but rather empowering them with the resilience and skills they need to manage their anxieties. Secure attachment ensures that children feel safe, supported, and understood, which is essential for fostering independence and emotional growth.

Remember: our responses are

ALWAYS supportive and empathetic. The strategies I discuss are designed to

strengthen a child's emotional resilience within the context of a secure and

supportive relationship. The goal is to avoid reinforcing anxiety through over-reassurance,

while still providing the necessary connection children need to thrive. This

approach is about finding a balance between supportive empathy and confidence

that promotes healthy emotional development. When

they can be the heroes of their own story, they will not experience trauma.

I also have FREE webinars for mental health professionals to learn more about the common mistakes we make that stall children's progress in managing anxiety. Be sure to check it out (https://koru-learning-institute.thinkific.com/courses/avoidingcommonmistakeswithanxiety), along with other training opportunities with me!

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/

With the holidays upon us, I wanted to do an episode on how to make the most of them. While I started to go through the things to destress, I realized that, truly, the one and most important thing to focus on is presence over presents (and busyness and rushing and chaos that can take us out of the moment).

To optimize our presence, we need to be mindful. Therefore, I knew the best episode this week was with mindfulness expert Claudio Barrientos.

Listen to today's episode to learn more about how to bring mindfulness into your own life to make the most of the holidays.

In addition, I do have a guide about how to make the most of the holidays:

1. Check out this resource: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/holidayguide/

2. Listen in on my other podcast, Parents of the Year, where my husband and I talk about making the most of the holidays as a family. https://apple.co/3du8mPK

About Claudio Barrientos:

Claudio was raised in Spain and Connecticut. He is an avid traveller with an endless curiosity of people, culture, food, philosophy, and psychology. He received his undergraduate degree in Philosophy & Theology from University of San Francisco, and his master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas San Antonio. Currently, Claudio is a Licensed Master Social Worker.

As a therapist, Claudio’s approach is informed by both his personal practice of mindfulness meditation and his desire to make mindfulness relatable to anyone seeking relief from the daily stressors of life.

Claudio’s path in the helping profession began in 2010 when he became a certified Mindfulness Instructor. Since that time, he has been on a mission to integrate his education in mindfulness with therapeutic interventions such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Claudio has worked with adolescents and adults in a DBT Intensive Outpatient Program, provided mental health services in Spanish to unaccompanied minors in the Office of Refugee Resettlement, and taught mindfulness to thousands of people across boardrooms, classrooms, and the general public.

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, based on questions Dr. Caroline has received on the subtle maladaptive coping strategies that can hinder kids’ resilience, she revisits the delicate balance between caring for children and enabling growth by exploring the subtleties of maladaptive coping and the importance of promoting independence in our kids. Discover the traps many adults fall into, from over-protectiveness to rescuing children from natural consequences, and learn how these well-intentioned actions can inadvertently hinder kids’ development of resilience, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence.

Dr. Caroline offers practical tips for supporting children in learning from their experiences, managing their emotions, and developing a strong sense of self-confidence and accountability. Don’t miss this important episode as we navigate parental guidance and explore effective strategies for raising confident, independent, and emotionally intelligent children.

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/

We know the importance of play in childhood. But play is important throughout our entire life because it offers many benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Play can reduce stress, improve our mood, and boost our learning, problem-solving, and creativity. Play is also a fantastic way to express ourselves, connect with others, and experience joy and pleasure.

Importantly, play can also be a powerful tool in managing anxiety and trauma. Engaging in playful activities allows us to express ourselves freely and creatively, which can also help us process difficult emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Play also has the ability to promote resilience and emotional regulation.

In today's episode, I had the chance to talk with Angie Berret about the power of play and why play is so helpful in managing anxiety and trauma. Do not miss this fantastic conversation!

Want to watch? Watch here: https://youtu.be/l0red_vzRkY

About Angie:

Angie Berrett (she/they) is an Intuitive Movement Coach, Registered Nurse, Advanced Trauma-Informed Yoga Instructor, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga Instructor who understands the human body and how it works. She helps people relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma through play, movements, and fun so they can have healing and peace in their lives.

Check out her blog post about the power of play in healing complex trauma:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/simplifying-complex-trauma/202208/playfully-moving-trauma-and-pain-healing-and-peace

How to find Angie:

https://angieberrettmovement.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angieberrettmovement/

https://Instagram.com/angieberrettmovement

https://www.facebook.com/AngieBerrettMovement

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, we explore the intriguing concept of 'subselves'—the different parts of our personality that shape our thoughts and emotions. Discover how these subselves can either work together or clash, leading to internal conflicts.

Learn practical strategies to help kids recognize and manage their subselves, fostering better emotional regulation. Join Dr. Caroline for an insightful discussion on how understanding our inner superhero team can improve emotional awareness and resilience in children. Tune in now!

Want to watch? Check out https://youtu.be/O15vUehZkL4 and subscribe to my channel!

And, if you're looking for summer success tips with your kids, be sure to check out these extra resources:

Parents of the Year Podcast Summer Series (parentsoftheyear.ca)

Summer 2024 Guide (https://bit.ly/bestsummerever2024)

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/

In today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I dive into the misunderstood world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and its link to anxiety. In Part One today, I discuss the key characteristics of PDA, including the avoidance of demands, difficulties with social communication, and a need for control. 

PDA is often misunderstood. Unfortunately, without a clear understanding of PDA, children and teens may receive inappropriate supports that fail to address their specific needs and can worsen their anxiety and worsen avoidant behaviours. Even worse, these kiddos may be stigmatized and considered "difficult" or "oppositional.” 

This episode is a must-listen to learn more about PDA and ensure that these children and teens receive the support and intervention they need to thrive.

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, I continue the parent trap series with a focus on one of the most significant traps: Accommodation. As adults, it is our instinct to shield anxious children from distress. However, when we do this, are we helping or hindering their growth?

This episode delves deep into the effects of over-accommodation — from speaking for a shy child to avoiding certain social situations. We explore how these well-intentioned actions can inadvertently perpetuate and even worsen a child’s anxiety, leading to increased dependency and a lack of self-efficacy.

Join me as I discuss the importance of shifting from accommodation to empowerment. I’ll share examples demonstrating how reducing accommodations can build confidence and resilience in anxious children.

Discover the vital role of parents in this process — not as rescuers, but as supporters, guiding their children to face fears and develop coping skills.

Tune in to empower your child towards courage and independence and start creating a plan to modify your accommodation behaviours.

**IMPORTANT!

Accommodations are vital for lots of different needs, such as executive functioning deficits. However, they are NOT always beneficial for managing anxiety. In fact, over-accommodating anxiety can inadvertently reinforce anxiety, preventing children from developing essential coping skills. My focus is on creating a supportive environment where children can face and gradually overcome their fears, building confidence and resilience over time.

It's also crucial to understand that a strong, securely attached relationship with adults is foundational for any strategies I discuss to be effective.

Remember: our responses are ALWAYS supportive and empathetic. The strategies I discuss are designed to strengthen a child's emotional resilience within the context of a secure and supportive relationship. The goal is to avoid reinforcing anxiety through accommodation while still providing the necessary connection children need to thrive.

If you haven’t seen it, I also have a free webinar designed for mental health professionals but can be valuable for others too about the traps we fall into. Be sure to check it out at https://koru-learning-institute.thinkific.com/courses/avoidingcommonmistakeswithanxiety for a deeper understanding.

And, as promised, here are 50 examples of accommodations that worsen anxiety:

1. Speaking for a child in social situations.

2. Avoiding places or events to prevent a child’s social anxiety.

3. Giving excessive warnings about upcoming events.

4. Allowing a child to skip school during stressful periods.

5. Avoiding friends or family with pets due to a child’s phobia.

6. Modifying or skipping tests for students with test anxiety.

7. Not calling on a student in class to ease participation anxiety.

8. Parents staying in class to ease a child's separation anxiety.

9. Completing a child's tasks to avoid their frustration.

10. Avoiding certain foods that a child dislikes due to sensory issues.

11. Changing family plans to accommodate a child’s preferences.

12. Letting a child avoid chores due to anxiety about doing them wrong.

13. Always letting a child win games to avoid disappointment.

14. Avoiding discussions on topics that make a child uncomfortable.

15. Not enforcing bedtime due to fears of the dark or being alone.

16. Always driving a different route to avoid a child’s fear triggers.

17. Avoiding medical or dental visits due to a child’s fear.

18. Letting a child stay in their comfort zone and not encouraging new activities.

19. Always resolving conflicts for a child to avoid their stress.

20. Keeping a child home from extracurricular activities due to anxiety.

21. Allowing excessive screen time to avoid tantrums.

22. Pre-emptively removing potential stressors from a child’s environment.

23. Stepping in to finish a child’s homework to avoid their anxiety.

24. Canceling playdates or outings last minute due to a child's anxiety.

25. Allowing a child to always play alone to avoid social stress.

26. Handling all of a child's social interactions.

27. Providing constant reassurance to a child’s anxious questions.

28. Always giving in to a child’s demands to avoid meltdowns.

29. Not encouraging a child to try new foods due to fear of rejection.

30. Avoiding public transportation to prevent a child’s travel anxiety.

31. Letting a child sleep with parents due to nighttime fears.

32. Not setting boundaries on a child's behaviors to avoid conflict.

33. Doing a child’s chores or tasks to prevent their anxiety.

34. Never leaving a child with a babysitter due to separation anxiety.

35. Avoiding discussing future events to prevent a child’s worry.

36. Rescuing a child from minor challenges to avoid their stress.

37. Allowing a child to dictate family schedules and routines.

38. Overprotecting a child from any form of criticism or negative feedback.

39. Not encouraging independence in daily tasks due to anxiety.

40. Altering family routines to suit one child’s anxieties.

41. Avoiding pets, parks, or outdoor activities due to specific fears.

42. Stepping in to negotiate a child’s disputes with peers.

43. Keeping a child from age-appropriate responsibilities to avoid stress.

44. Preparing different meals to accommodate a child’s food anxieties.

45. Not enforcing rules consistently to avoid upsetting a child.

46. Always accompanying a child to activities to ease their anxiety.

47. Never exposing a child to new experiences to avoid potential fears.

48. Avoiding conversations about health, safety, or well-being to prevent worry.

49. Over-scheduling a child to avoid their idle anxiety.

50. Never allowing a child to face natural consequences of their actions.

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, I continue talking about ODD and anxiety and, importantly, how to manage them.

There are numerous considerations when we have a kiddo with an ODD diagnosis, like addressing their (mis)interpretations of situations. But, even more importantly, I discuss the key environmental issues that must be addressed before we can ever work on kids' skills.

Part 2 of this ODD/anxiety series is critical to optimize our success in working with children and teens diagnosed with ODD and their families.   If you haven't already, be sure to watch Part 1 to first understand these kiddos' emotion  (dys)regulation and information processing biases, along with their developmental age, parent-child interactions, accommodations, and control.

Warning: I ran into some technical difficulties and didn't realize my mic was on the fritz so the last part does sound a little tinnier - apologies!

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/

This week is Part 2 of my interview with Dr. Jeremy Sharp, as first seen on The Testing Psychologist (https://www.thetestingpsychologist.com/348-differentiating-adhd-asd-part-2-w-dr-caroline-buzanko/) in which I dive into a discussion of differentiating ADHD & ASD. Definitely check out Part 1 before you tackle this one!

In part 2 today, I discuss:

• The overlap and differentiation of “Part B” of DSM ASD symptoms from ADHD symptoms
• The developmental considerations of ASD and ADHD
• Why we shouldn't compare males and females
• The assessment process and tools to do a comprehensive assessment

Cool Things Mentioned

• Caroline’s previous episodes (one & two) on parental perceptions of the evaluation
• Caroline’s training for differentially diagnosing ASD and ADHD: https://koru-learning-institute.thinkific.com/courses/differential-diagnosis(use code TTP25 for 25% off!)

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, I want to capitalize on the holiday season's unique opportunities for nurturing emotion regulation and resilience in children. I discuss how to balance holiday excitement with essential routines. I chat about strategies for family bonding, managing expectations, and creating a supportive environment to foster emotional well-being and resilience in our children. Tune in and transform this holiday season into a learning experience for your family!

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/

Today I dive into Part 2 on anxiety and trauma. While there are some approaches that are similar for both, there are some special considerations with trauma. After all, traumatic memories can stay trapped in the amygdala and continue to trigger scary thoughts and big emotions that keep us stuck in traumatic responses.

Because trauma disrupts the connections in the brain, we need to rewire the brain to be more integrated and connected. Listen in to hear more on today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions!

Prefer to watch? https://youtu.be/LTuZUnOWyko

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/

I spent the last two weeks talking parental stress and co-regulation. Because they need help. If their emotions overwhelm them, they cannot regulate their emotions on their own. Today I talk about the difference between misbehaviour and stress behaviour as well as what effective co-regulation looks like for kiddos depending on their ages from preschool years all the way up to adulthood.

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/

In today's episode, I continue to Part 3 on Hoarding Disorder. Today, I specifically address relapse prevention and important considerations to promote long-term success. There are a lot of things people fail to consider in optimizing outcomes, so be sure to listen to ensure those things are not missed!

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/

Welcome to Deep Dive into Practice - our very first podcast!

As mental health professionals, we all have incredible potential to create meaningful change in our client's life. But, this work isn't easy; if it were, everyone would be doing it. At the end of the day, clients are only as good as the professionals they work with.

Mastering your skills and transforming your practice begins with a conversation. And this podcast is the start, where we deep dive into practice to support your lifelong journey in mastering your skillset and becoming a highly effective mental health professional who works with children, teens, and families. By joining me, you are empowering yourself and your practice while ultimately improving your clients’ success.

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/

In today's episode of Overpowering Emotions, I discuss hoarding disorder and key areas of intervention.

There are many areas that need to be addressed to be effective in helping individuals with hoarding. First, we need to have a strong working relationship with the individual. Trust, collaboration, and listening to their story is key. Having a thorough understanding of what is going on for them within their unique context is also important to develop a personal model about hoarding.

With that understanding, we can then design an effective systems-based treatment plan that includes boosting motivation, skill-building, rewiring the brain, and generalizing skills.

Be sure to check out today's episode to hear specific details about effective treatment planning!

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/

In today's episode I introduce two key aspects of emotions: the physiological and cognitive. I also discuss the need to develop self-awareness of these experiences for effective emotion regulation.

Lack of self-awareness is the biggest barrier to self-regulation. Many kids aren't even aware that they are on the brink of an emotional meltdown or if they are engaging in problematic behaviours. That is why we need to start here, with self-awareness. Without it, no skill development will ever happen.

Don't miss this episode - learn what you need to know about regulation and how to help kiddos raise their awareness of emotions.

You can also WATCH HERE!

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/

I am still talking about how to make the brain more resistant to anxiety. Today is a critical piece that is often skipped over. Acceptance. Without acceptance, other strategies you try, such as mindfulness, may only make anxiety worse.  Listen in to hear why!

You can also WATCH this week's episode!

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/

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Overpowering Emotions. Today, I had the chance to speak with special guest Jaimee Campanella about a topic that many of us struggle with daily - our relationship with time. It's a topic that not only influences our personal emotional landscape but also holds profound implications for the well-being of our children and the harmony within our homes.

For many individuals, time is a major source of stress, marked by limiting beliefs that echo sentiments such as "there's never enough time" or feelings of being "out of control." Such beliefs can not only hinder personal growth and productivity but also create ripples in the family environment. As parents, our emotional state and time-related stress can inadvertently influence our children's perceptions of time, stress, and the world around them.

If you've heard me speak before, managing our own stress is crucial in the context of co-regulation, where parents play an instrumental role in helping their children regulate their emotions. When parents are continually stressed about time, it becomes increasingly difficult for them to effectively co-regulate with their kids. A rush-filled environment only reinforces feelings of anxiety and instability. In essence, by altering our relationship with time, we not only improve our own well-being but also reduce stress within the household, creating a more nurturing environment for our children's emotional and psychological growth.

Understanding and transforming our relationship with time is an essential step toward achieving our goals, as well as fostering well-being for ourselves and our families. Join us in this thought-provoking discussion and take a step towards not only transforming your relationship with time but also fostering a nurturing, stress-reduced environment. And for all parents tuning in, Jaimee will introduce her Family Calendar, a tool designed to transform time management into a manageable experience.

About Jaimee

Jaimee Campanella is a time strategist and productivity consultant who mentors and guides parents, professionals, and entrepreneurs to take control of their time. She is the creator and principal facilitator of the Time Power program that gives people the essential tools and strategies to avoid overwhelm and tame chaos so that they can regain control of their time for good.

Website: jaimeecampanella.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jaimeecampanellaco/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/jaimeecampanellaco
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimeecampanella/
Youtube: Time Power created by Jaimee Campanella
Free Training: 3 Shifts to Take Control of Your Time: https://www.jaimeecampanella.com/training
Time Power Family Calendar: https://www.jaimeecampanella.com/family-calendar-details
Book A Free Consultation Call: https://www.jaimeecampanella.com/get-started
Learn More about the Time Power Program: https://www.jaimeecampanella.com/time-power

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, I chat with guest expert Dr. Brice Willis to unmask performance anxiety. This topic strikes a chord with students who struggle with perfectionism, athletes, and anyone who has felt the pressure to shine in the spotlight.

Performance anxiety, that gripping feeling of unease that can accompany high-stakes situations, is a phenomenon that affects individuals across various fields. Join us as we peel back the layers of this complex emotion and its negative influence on our students' ability to showcase their talents.

We go even further and provide actionable strategies to support students to not only cope but also thrive under pressure.

Be sure to tune in!

Prefer to watch? Check out my channel on YouTube

About Dr. Brice Willis

Brice is a registered psychologist in Alberta whose areas of expertise include general anxiety, coping with work stress, mental toughness, and enhancing sports, school, and work performance.

He has participated in several different sports and has competition experience at the local, provincial, national, and international levels. His experience has provided him with insight into the psychological, emotional, and physical demands that athletes face, as well as what is required for effective performance.

Check out his website: www.adaptiveminds.ca

And these useful resources (affiliate links):

Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence - Gary Mack

The Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance - George Mumford

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/

In today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I take a little detour from my usual discussions and capitalize on the New Year (when some people might start thinking of goals and new habits) to speak with special guest Jorge V. Gonzalez, who has embraced his life's calling with unwavering passion. Based on his journey, he offers a blueprint for anyone longing to discover and fulfill their true purpose.

We discuss why it is essential to understand who we are meant to be and tap into our inner selves to guide us and break through the barriers that hold us back. He shares his personal experiences and the pivotal moments that led him to fully commit to his life's purpose, offering invaluable insights for those seeking a similar path.

We also discuss navigating the tumultuous waves of life’s struggles and maintaining focus and motivation.

Join us as Jorge takes us on a journey of self-discovery, perseverance, and ultimate success.

About Jorge:

We live in a society where different types of people live. Some need a push to work well in life, so motivational speakers and influencers exist. They dedicate their lives to inspiring and encouraging people to take the leap in life and be victorious. Jorge V. Gonzalez is one of those speakers & Influencers.

Are you facing the challenge of finding a new direction in your life after experiencing tragedy? Do you find yourself pondering how to reinvent yourself and chase your dreams despite life’s obstacles? Rest assured; you are not alone. Many of us encounter difficult situations that compel us to reevaluate our aspirations and goals.

In his widely acclaimed book, Answer The Call: Life Lessons From Family Origins Through Invention And Struggle, Jorge Gonzalez shares his personal voyage of reinvention and provides practical insights on how you can do the same. After dedicating two decades to honing his skills, Jorge confronted a disability that prevented him from continuing in his chosen field. However, rather than succumbing to anger and despair, he drew inspiration from his family’s legacy of embracing calculated risks and embarked on a new path.

Through his book and coaching sessions, Jorge imparts the wisdom that setbacks can be transformed into opportunities for growth and self-discovery with the right mindset. He emphasizes the significance of resilience, hard work, and setting high expectations to attain success and reinvent oneself. By sharing his own experiences and offering tangible examples, Jorge aspires to ignite inspiration and empower others to pursue their true purpose in life.

Where to find Jorge:

https://www.instagram.com/jorge_v_gonzalez
www.jorgevgonzalez.com

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, we continue our journey beyond perfectionism and discuss how to help kids use those perfectionistic, binary, all-or-nothing thoughts to their advantage.

I share insights from sports psychology to help kids stop freezing up under pressure and instead focus on what they can control—effort, action, and showing up.

Learn how to turn rigid thinking into growth opportunities by asking the right questions, celebrating small wins, and setting realistic, manageable steps. Discover simple strategies to help kids build resilience and confidence, not by avoiding failure but by embracing every experience as a chance to learn.

Prefer to watch on YouTube?

And, check out this week’s homework to help kids use perfectionism’s rigid, binary thinking to become more flexible. Choose at least one task to model and reinforce these concepts throughout the week.

Reframe the Questions You Ask

Instead of asking outcome-focused questions like “Did you get a goal?” or “What was your grade?”, shift to questions that emphasize effort and participation. Use prompts like “Did you enjoy playing?” or “How did you feel about your effort today?” This helps children focus on their involvement and personal growth rather than just the final result.

Create “Did You or Did You Not” Targets

Identify everyday tasks where the outcome can be defined simply as “Did you or did you not?” For instance, “Did you play the game?” rather than “Did you win?” or “Did you hand in your assignment?” instead of “Did you get it perfect?” At this point of learning to manage perfectionism, simplifying goals helps reduce pressure by focusing on participation and completion rather than perfection.

 Model Binary Thinking with Your Own Tasks

Demonstrate this shift in thinking with your own tasks. Verbalize your actions aloud. Children learn a lot from observing adults. Modeling this thinking reinforces the approach in real-life contexts.

Set Up “Try Something New” Challenges

Encourage the child to try something new each week where the focus is purely on participation. Examples include trying a new hobby, playing a game, or attempting a new skill. This builds resilience and shows kids that trying is valuable, regardless of immediate success.

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/

Last week I said that whatever we do to make anxious kids feel better actually makes their anxiety worse. I had lots of questions on this one. So, today, I go into WHY that is the case....

We'll explore the psychology behind this phenomenon, uncovering how well-intentioned actions can hinder a child's brain development and ability to cope with anxiety. I'll highlight the unintended consequences of certain practices and the delicate balance needed to support anxious children without fostering dependence on external validation or reassurance.

*IMPORTANT!* It's crucial to understand that a strong, securely attached relationship with adults is foundational for any strategies I discuss to be effective. This approach is not about leaving children to "suck it up" but rather empowering them with the resilience and skills they need to manage their anxieties. Secure attachment ensures that children feel safe, supported, and understood, which is essential for fostering independence and emotional growth.

Remember, our responses are always supportive and empathetic. The strategies I discuss aim to strengthen a child's emotional resilience within the context of a secure and supportive relationship. The goal is to avoid reinforcing anxiety through over-reassurance while providing the necessary connection children need to thrive. This approach finds a balance between supportive empathy and confidence, promoting healthy emotional development. When children become the heroes of their own stories, they won't experience trauma.

Join me today as I continue to unravel the complexities of childhood anxiety and pave the way for more effective, empowering approaches.

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/

This week I continue the comorbidity series. This is Part 1 of my dive into unpacking the anxiety-autism connection.In this week's installment of my comorbidity series, I dive into Part 1 of the anxiety-autism connection in (Part 1). 

Anxiety is a common experience for many kiddos, but autistic children and teens are particularly vulnerable. Today I discuss what is happening in the brain and the differences between autistic-related anxiety and our shared understanding of anxiety. I also discuss the difference between OCD behaviours and stimming.

The link between anxiety and autism is complex and multifaceted. The link between anxiety and autism is multifaceted, and several factors contribute to this link. Social differences, differences in processing information, sensory sensitivities, alexithymia, and intolerance to uncertainty are just a few examples.

Understanding the difference between autism-related anxieties and co-occurring anxiety is critical to develop individualized strategies that will be most effective for managing anxiety and promoting success for our children and teens.

If you are a mental health professional who diagnoses autism, be sure to check out my workshop on differentiating Autism from ADHD and other common comorbidities, including anxiety and trauma: https://koru-learning-institute.thinkific.com/courses/differential-diagnosis

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/

Sharpening critical thinking skills is a game-changer in managing emotions. Dive into part 2 of this discussion on critical thinking where we dive into its potent impact on emotion regulation. We will also discuss 25 practical strategies to help children and teens strengthen this critical skill for mastering emotions and building their resilience.

If you'd like to read more, check out this blog post: https://korupsychology.ca/developing-critical-thinking-skills/

And, for my Patreon members, be sure to get your checklist of critical thinking-building questions!

Prefer to watch? Check out my YouTube channel!

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/

Welcome back to the next installment of the Back to School Success series. In today's episode, I jump into Part II of our exploration of School Avoidance, where I shift focus to treatment considerations. I discuss the necessity of adopting a comprehensive school-based approach and highlight the imperative to address the multifaceted needs of students, families, and schools.

Drawing from the resilience pyramid concept (https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/pyramidofresilience/), I emphasize the paramount importance of first establishing an optimal environment for students to thrive both at home and in the school setting. Specifically, we examine how we can transform schools into safe, welcoming, connected, and all-embracing spaces for our students.

Ensure you tune in to this week's episode to uncover any unaddressed needs that might be hindering progress. This episode will lay the groundwork for our upcoming discussion where I will delve into the essential skills students need to acquire, as well as the formulation of tailored re-entry plans.

And, if you're eager to embark on a more profound exploration with me and gain comprehensive insights into conducting a functional analysis and designing effective re-entry strategies for managing school avoidance, make sure you don't miss the opportunity to participate in my School Refusal training. (https://bit.ly/schoolrefusalworkshop)

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/

While some separation anxiety is normal in early childhood, it becomes serious when it doesn't go away as children get into their elementary school years and interferes with typical activities like going to school or going to a friend's house.

While it can be hard for children and teachers to see children in distress, we don't want to fall into the common traps that make anxiety stronger, like allowing children to avoid the things they're afraid of and reassuring them that everything will be fine.

In today's episode, I discuss these traps and what we can do instead to help these children master the uncomfortable thoughts and feelings that come with separation anxiety.

*IMPORTANT!

Remember: our responses are ALWAYS supportive and empathetic. The strategies I discuss are designed to

strengthen a child's emotional resilience within the context of a secure and supportive relationship.

Secure attachment ensures that children feel safe, supported, and understood, which is essential for fostering independence and emotional growth.

The goal is to avoid reinforcing anxiety through unhelpful responses while still providing the necessary connection children need to thrive. This approach is about finding a balance between supportive empathy and confidence that promotes healthy emotional development.  

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/

After talking about why our children and teens are not getting the support they need to manage anxiety last week, I received a lot of questions about what might be causing their anxiety. Today, I delve deeper into this topic and try to understand some of the most important factors that contribute to our kids' anxiety.

First of all, it's important to remember that anxiety is a part of our evolutionary heritage. Our ancestors lived in a dangerous world, and anxiety was a useful response to keep them safe. However, the world we live in today is vastly different from what our ancestors experienced. The same anxious response that helped our ancestors might not be as helpful in our modern world. So, there must be something else contributing to our children's anxiety.

The number one contributor to anxiety is stress. Stress is a normal part of being human, and we all face it at some point in our lives. However, some unique stressors that we have control over are contributing to our children's anxiety. Understanding these stressors is crucial to helping our children manage their anxiety.

In today's episode, we'll explore the most common stressors that our children and teenagers face. By understanding these stressors, we can help our children cope better and reduce their anxiety levels. So, stay tuned for an informative and insightful episode on the common stressors our children and teens face!

Want to watch? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4-bDgYC6CY)

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/

I have talked a lot about anxiety and the brain and wanted to look at how we can make the brain more resistant to anxiety and stop being so trigger-happy to anxiety. First, we need awareness. And while there are several components to awareness that I will be talking about in coming episodes, today I lay the foundation for building this awareness in the first place and the five elements of emotion to become aware of.

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/

Are you ready to kickstart the new school year with ease and confidence? Join Caroline in today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions where she presents a treasure trove of valuable tips and strategies to ensure a smooth back-to-school transition for your children and teens. While she will be getting into specific skills, today she focuses on general routines to focus on to make this year’s transition as smooth as possible.

If you haven't already, be sure to check out Caroline's comprehensive guide to conquering back-to-school anxiety here: https://bit.ly/Conquering_Back-to-School_Anxiety and her article with critical routines that your children need to develop: https://korupsychology.ca/essential-routines-for-success-and-well-being/

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/

In this special episode, I am a guest on the BELIEVE IN PEOPLE Podcast with Kevin Tibbles & Amy Goldberg

In this episode we talk about helping children and teens master their anxiety, and what parents need to know.

Find out what kids wish parents knew …

A conversation worth having.

Check out BELIEVE IN PEOPLE Podcast: A podcast for people with hope.

You can also WATCH HERE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOKLslZRq7c&feature=youtu.be)

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/

Join us in the latest episode of Overpowering Emotions - the first of #JourneyofResilience2024.

To start this journey, Dr. Carline talks about how moving beyond the conventional view of simply bouncing back from adversity and ensuring children thrive.

Discover the multifaceted nature of resilience, encompassing emotional, psychological, social, and physical aspects. She discusses key frameworks to provide a comprehensive understanding of resilience.

She also shares stories about how resilience manifests in the real world, leading to emotional growth, new skills, and a sense of purpose.

Tune in to understand why resilience matters in every aspect of life and how it's a learned ability that we can all foster. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of resilience and its profound impact on children's and teens' lives.

Be sure to check out her resource (a reflective dialogue guide). By regularly engaging in reflective dialogue, you can help children internalize the process of learning from adversity, laying a strong foundation for developing resilience.  https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/reflectivedialogueguide/

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/

Today, I talk about how we address perfectionism in more detail.

Yes, I do talk about the most important thinking trap to address, but I also highlight the things we must DO to help anxious kiddos manage perfectionism.

After all, as with anything related to anxiety, it's more about what we do than what we say.

BONUS: Is perfectionism holding you, a client, or someone you know back? Check out this quiz to see! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/is-perfectionism-holding-you-back/

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions: Part 2 of why over-focusing on children’s emotions might do more harm than good (recast from the podcast, Parents of the Year). We also discuss practical strategies for helping kids navigate life’s ups and downs without being overwhelmed by their feelings.

Tune in for another insightful conversation on fostering independence and emotional strength in your children.

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/

Welcome to another insightful episode of Overpowering Emotions. Now that we are a month into school, I wanted to readdress a critically important topic - separation anxiety.

While it's entirely normal for young children to experience separation anxiety, its persistence into the elementary (and beyond!) can signal a more serious concern. This is especially true when it starts interfering with everyday activities like attending school or engaging in social interactions.

We recognize the challenges that children, parents, and teachers face when dealing with separation anxiety. However, we're also aware of the pitfalls that can inadvertently exacerbate the situation. Falling into these common traps, such as allowing avoidance or offering excessive reassurance, can inadvertently reinforce anxiety rather than alleviate it.

In this episode, I shed light on these traps and provide insights into a more effective approach. My goal is to empower parents, teachers, and caregivers with strategies that encourage children to confront their fears and develop resilience. I discuss how to navigate the delicate balance between support and encouraging growth, all while fostering the mastery of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings associated with separation anxiety.

By tuning in, you'll gain valuable perspectives on creating an environment that promotes emotional growth and equips children with the tools they need to manage separation anxiety constructively. Join me in exploring this vital aspect of childhood and beyond, as we work towards nurturing emotional well-being and empowering young minds to navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Remember, understanding and addressing separation anxiety is an essential step towards helping children build a foundation of emotional resilience that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Prefer to watch? Check out my YouTube channel

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/

I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Cindy Thompson on her podcast, A Resilience Project, to chat about how to raise happy, confident and resilient kids.

Join us to find out why it is important for our kids to experience challenges and failure, some of the signs of stress to watch for and when to reach out for help.

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, I kick off the new Parent Traps series talking about an incredibly influential, but often overlooked aspect of parenting: the distinction between promoting reasonable safety and falling into the anxiety-inducing trap of catastrophizing.

Ever wonder how a simple "Be careful!" can spiral into a storm of worries in a child's mind? It's all about the words we choose. Join me as we explore the powerful impact of adult language - the subtle nuances that can either soothe or stir a child’s deepest anxieties.

Even more importantly, learn how to communicate effectively about safety without inducing unnecessary fear or anxiety in children.

As the first episode in this series, it sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of adult behaviours and child anxiety. This series will be critical to foster resilience and healthy emotional development in children.

Want to learn more? Be sure to check out the blog post I wrote on this topic too: https://korupsychology.ca/words-that-worry/

Prefer to watch? https://youtu.be/TJJWxj0DIcM

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/

Have you heard of relaxation-induced anxiety? It's not a new phenomenon yet many people aren't aware of it - but we definitely need to be! Find out more in today's episode. You can also watch here: https://youtu.be/6NE0cHxDq4w

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/

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of Overpowering Emotions, where I explore the multifaceted journey of fostering attachments and building safety in therapeutic relationships. Your feedback has inspired me to dive deeper into this topic, as we recognize the crucial role that relationships play in helping children and teens develop emotional regulation skills and navigate their complex inner worlds.

In today's episode, I embark on a quest to help everyone understand the significance of recognizing each individual's unique set of genes and life experiences as the foundation for building safety. I delve into the power of empathy and the importance of acknowledging that different perspectives can shape our interpretations of situations. Together, we'll uncover how seemingly positive gestures can unintentionally trigger trauma responses in certain individuals, and explore the impact of our words and actions on their emotional well-being.

I start by acknowledging that what may appear insignificant to us can hold great importance to children. Their developing brains process information differently, and our role as adults is to validate their experiences, understanding that their emotions are valid and deserving of empathy.

Next, I turn our attention to the profound influence of trauma on how individuals interpret and respond to certain situations. Traumatic experiences can shape their perception of the world and themselves, leading to distorted interpretations, heightened emotional reactions, and altered belief systems. I shed light on how trauma survivors may experience triggers that elicit intense emotional and physical responses, emphasizing the need for sensitivity and understanding in our interactions.

Within the paradox of care and triggers, we recognize the delicate balance between providing support and inadvertently retraumatizing individuals. Acts of kindness can unknowingly activate trauma responses, making them feel vulnerable and triggering feelings of overexposure. I explore strategies to approach kindness with empathy and patience, allowing individuals to set their own pace for accepting and reciprocating care. By creating a safe and consistent environment, we help them rebuild trust and experience the positive effects of genuine acts of kindness.

Restraints, although used to ensure safety, can be retraumatizing for children with a history of physical abuse. I explore the importance of trauma-informed practices and communication to minimize triggers and create an environment that promotes healing and resilience. By actively listening, respecting boundaries, and incorporating trauma-informed care principles, we strive to create a safe and predictable environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and supported.

Throughout this episode, I emphasize the significance of embracing diverse perspectives, honouring the individuality of experiences, and acknowledging the complexities that underlie each person's journey. By doing so, we foster attachments and build safety, empowering children and teens to navigate their emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Join me as I navigate the intricacies of building safety and fostering attachments in therapeutic relationships. Let's create a world where empathy and understanding thrive, paving the way for healing and growth. Tune in and be a part of the transformative power of genuine connections.

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions I discuss distinctions of emotion-focused and problem-solving-focused coping mechanisms and how they can help kids effectively manage their emotions and face life's challenges with confidence.

I revisit the foundational concepts of these coping strategies but also provide practical ideas on fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation in everyday life and helping them figure out which coping strategies they need to use in a given situation.

This episode is important for developing a versatile emotional toolbox. 

Tune in to help your children navigate their emotions and challenges, setting them up for success and well-being throughout their journey in life.

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/

Love isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s in the little everyday moments that build connection, trust, and self-worth. In this special Valentine’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I discuss how to strengthen relationships with kindness, compassion, and understanding.

💖 What you’ll hear in this episode:

✔️ The key to making sure kids actually feel loved

✔️ How to figure out your child’s love language (and why it matters)

✔️ Simple ways to help kids express love and gratitude

✔️ The one mistake that can block connection (and how to fix it)

✔️ Easy, fun activities to bring more love into your family

And don’t miss the homework challenge to strengthen kids' sense of belonging!

💡 Your Challenge: Discover Your Child’s Love Language

This week, observe how your child shows love. That’s often a clue to how they prefer to receive it. Then, talk about love languages together and brainstorm ways to fill their "love tank."

Try These Activities:

1️⃣ Shower of Love – One family member sits while others walk around them for 2 minutes, listing all the reasons they love and appreciate them.

2️⃣ Compliment Circle – Each person takes turns giving a meaningful compliment to the person on their right.

3️⃣ Random Acts of Love Jar – Family members write down small, meaningful acts they’d love to receive (e.g., “Read me a story,” “Write me a note”). Draw one each week to complete for someone else.

4️⃣ Love Language Day – Dedicate a day to practicing each family member’s love language. If someone’s love language is physical touch, make time for extra hugs that day.

5️⃣ Gratitude Board – Write down one thing you appreciate about a family member each day and reflect on it together at the end of the week.

6️⃣ Gratitude Letters – Write a letter to someone sharing specific reasons why you’re grateful for them.

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/

I know I said I would be going into coping strategies, but there is a lot of work for adults. I left off last episode talking about how important self-care is before we can hope to effectively help children. For this part of our resilience journey, I want to focus on the things we can do to support ourselves and kids. Because if we’re doing good kids will do good too.

To kick us off, special guest Katharine Manning discusses the crucial but often overlooked aspect of self-care for those who dedicate themselves to supporting others through distress. Discover why caring for others can significantly impact your own mental and physical well-being and explore effective strategies for safeguarding your health while being a steadfast support system.

This episode sheds light on balancing aiding loved ones in need and ensuring you don't neglect your well-being, highlighting the importance of self-care practices that can protect you from long-term health challenges. This is an important episode with invaluable insights into how to care for yourself first to be more effective and compassionate in helping others.

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/

In today's episode, I continue back on the traps we fall into that inadvertently worsen children's anxiety. In today's recast, we focus on the counterintuitive concept that striving for relaxation can actually amplify anxiety.

We unpack the paradox of 'trying' to relax when anxious and why making relaxation the goal can be problematic. In this episode, I discuss how emphasizing the reduction of anxiety may reinforce negative perceptions of anxiety as intolerable and needing to be fixed. Such attitudes can lead to a fear of anxiety, setting children up to view normal anxious feelings as failures, thus perpetuating a cycle of worry and hopelessness.

Learn why controlling emotional responses, particularly in children, is not only unrealistic but can also be counterproductive. I explore strategies for managing anxiety, focusing on tolerance and understanding of anxious feelings as a normal, manageable, and integral part of the human experience.

Tune in to learn why we need to shift the focus from eliminating anxiety to empowering kids to manage and tolerate it.

I also have a FREE webinar for mental health professionals to learn more about the common mistakes we make that stall children's progress in managing anxiety. Be sure to check it out (https://koru-learning-institute.thinkific.com/courses/avoidingcommonmistakeswithanxiety) if you want to  learn other ways we could be making anxiety worse.

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/

We are continuing our skill-building classes. I have focused a lot on co-regulation and previously talked about what co-regulation looks like depending on kiddos' age. Today, I am talking about what self-regulation looks like for our kids depending on their ages and how we can establish appropriate expectations and supports to help them be successful.

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/

As this year comes to a close, it is important for kids to reflect on their growth and set meaningful resilience goals for the year ahead. From celebrating small victories to creating intentions that feel manageable and encouraging, I cover actionable ways to support kids in becoming more confident and capable. Tune in for simple strategies to spark important conversations and foster resilience that lasts.

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline continues the #JourneyofResilience by exploring Emotional Intelligence (EI) and its profound impact on children.

Discover how EI empowers children to navigate the challenges of school, peer relationships, and everyday emotions with confidence. Through different stories, Dr. Caroline illustrates how children with high EI can thrive even in the face of adversity.

Explore the pivotal role of EI in developing key skills while fostering empathy, strong social connections, and a positive self-image, laying the foundation for unwavering resilience.

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/

Last week I talked about how we cannot focus too much on kids and teens when it comes to emotion regulation. Today I dig into emotion regulation (and how it is NOT self-control) and how there are multiple systems around the child that must be addressed to improve their overall emotional wellbeing because there are so many factors that influence a child's success with managing emotions. I have actually created a resilience pyramid to illustrate the fact that there are multiple considerations to make before we can focus on skill development for our kiddos.

At the end of the day, we need to build not only the child’s, but the family’s - and even community’s and society’s - capacity to cope because each of those influence our kids’ capacity to cope.

Today, I focus on family. I discuss how parental stress is contagious and the importance of building their capacity as effective co-regulators for their children.

Access the resilience pyramid here: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/pyramidofresilience/

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/

Welcome back to the concluding part of our Best of Back to School Success series on managing school avoidance. If you happened to miss the preceding two episodes, I encourage you to catch up on them, as they lay the groundwork for fostering student triumph within a nurturing environment, guided by knowledgeable adults adept at skillfully addressing moments of anxiety.

In today's episode, I'm honing in on the vital skill set that students need to acquire, as well as the strategic processes we must implement to ensure their triumphant return to school.

The significance of tackling school refusal cannot be overstated. It's paramount to recognize that this issue transcends mere resistance to attending school; it holds the potential to disrupt a student's holistic development. Similarly, it's not merely about coaxing students back into classrooms; it's about empowering them to conquer their fears, insecurities, and anxieties.

When we tackle school refusal head-on, we pave the way towards holistic growth. We're creating a space where these students can not only excel academically but also nurture their emotional well-being, develop resilience, and foster a positive self-image.

For those eager to delve deeper into the intricacies, I invite you to join me in an immersive learning experience during my School Refusal training. This training will equip you with the precise techniques needed to conduct a comprehensive functional analysis, decipher the underlying triggers for students, and craft a robust re-entry plan that effectively manages school avoidance. (https://bit.ly/schoolrefusalworkshop)

Thank you for joining me in this exploration of managing school avoidance. Together, we can pave the way for a future where every student thrives.

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/

I am excited to chat with Joe Sanock from The Practice of the Practice about the Imposter Phenomenon (IP). In this episode, I discuss various factors that contribute to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, even in highly successful individuals. Together, we explore strategies and techniques to overcome IP, helping you build confidence and recognize your true worth.

We also touch on practical tools to enhance your productivity and combat perfectionism, which often goes hand-in-hand with IP. I'll introduce you to a productivity planner that can help you stay organized and focused, ensuring that perfectionism doesn't hold you back from achieving your goals.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable tips to tackle IP and boost your productivity. Don't miss this empowering conversation designed to help you unlock your full potential!

Check out the productivity planner AND see if perfectionism is holding you back.

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline goes deeper into the practical side of overcoming perfectionism with a focus on procedural thinking.

She shares actionable steps to help kids break free from the overwhelming need to be perfect by shifting their mindset to “What’s next?”

Learn how to guide children through breaking tasks into manageable steps, using reflective questions, celebrating effort, and embracing the journey of trial and error.

This episode is packed with tips to foster resilience, adaptability, and a love of learning, helping kids stay focused on progress rather than perfection. Tune in to discover simple yet powerful ways to help children keep moving forward!

Prefer to watch? Check out the episode on YouTube!

And, to help kids shift away from perfectionism and embrace procedural thinking, choose at least one of these practical homework activities this week.

Break Tasks into Manageable Steps

Choose a task your child is struggling with or avoiding. Work with them to break it down into smaller, sequential steps. Use visual aids like Post-its, a checklist, or a step-by-step plan on paper. This approach makes overwhelming tasks feel achievable and helps kids stay focused on one step at a time, reducing anxiety.

Practice Low-Stakes Problem-Solving

Engage in activities like board games, puzzles, or building blocks where mistakes happen frequently. Use these moments to practice the “What’s next?” mindset. When a mistake occurs, gently prompt, “What’s next?” to keep the momentum going. This will build familiarity with the “What’s next?” approach in a fun, low-pressure setting, making it easier to apply in more stressful situations.

If they want, have them make a “What’s Next?” visual and display it where they often face challenges. This keeps their focus on the next action rather than getting stuck in self-criticism or rumination.

Model “What’s Next?” in Your Own Life

Verbally model your problem-solving when you face setbacks or mistakes. Share your thought process aloud, such as, “I made an error in this recipe—what’s next? I’ll adjust and try again.” Involve your child in finding solutions when appropriate. Doing so demonstrates resilience and flexibility, showing kids that mistakes are normal and manageable.

End-of-Day Reflection

At the end of each day, ask your child to reflect on any mistakes they made and, importantly, what they did next. Discuss how using “What’s next?” helped them move forward. These reflections reinforce the habit of focusing on actionable steps and acknowledge their resilience and perseverance.

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/

In today's episode, I delve into a crucial skill we all need to cultivate in children and teens: Critical Thinking.

Why is it so essential? How does it pave the way for academic excellence, emotional well-being, and resilience?

Not just a buzzword, critical thinking is the bedrock of independent thought, effective decision-making, and problem-solving. Tune in as I discuss practical strategies for fostering this invaluable skill.

If you'd like to read more, check out this blog post: https://korupsychology.ca/developing-critical-thinking-skills/

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/

In today's episode, I spoke with Joanne Williams about the art of mastering emotions to enhance our lives. We explore the unique messages each emotion brings and the critical role of tuning into these messages for our personal development and well-being. We also tackle the detrimental effects of self-comparison and offer alternative, healthier approaches. We highlight the transformative power of gratitude, the significance of having a friend who deeply understands us, and the importance of boundary-setting as a pathway to emotional maturity and effective life management. Tune in for valuable insights and practical tips to refine emotional mastery.  

Be sure to check out Joanne's free giveaway: the 3-step Alignment Formula to create focus and concise decision-making.

https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:bd670cf5-5e7d-487c-ba5f-c8d970acdf6a  

About Joanne:

Joanne Williams, LCSW is a Mental Health Professional who loves to empower people to live their purpuse. For 30+ year, she has transformed clients lives with inspired simplified energetic techniques.  She guides her clients straight to your goals with her own next generation methods designed around the Alignment Formula, which is based on universal principles that are guaranteed to work whether in business, relationships or in life by rerouting old thought habits from your emotional brain wired to protect you, to your belief center that will bring you to your creative aspirations. Her specialties are anxiety and trauma and certifying for Psychiatric Service Dogs.

Where to find Joanne:

Email: JoanneWilliamsLCSW@gmail.com

FB:  https://www.facebook.com/esaevaluation16    

Website: https://ESApros.com

Website: https://AnxietySimplified.com

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/

Are stress and reactivity running the show?

Today on Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline chats with parenting expert Linda Clement to uncover how survival brains hijack our emotions and what we can do to bring calm and connection back into focus. Linda shares simple, science-backed strategies to quiet the stress response and reignite creativity, empathy, and resilience in kids and adults alike. Discover how subtle shifts in your approach can create big changes in emotional well-being and behavior.

This conversation offers practical tools that parents, teachers, and anyone working with children can use immediately to foster emotional safety and healthier relationships. Learn how to tune into the body, rewire the brain for calm, and lead by example so kids can thrive in today’s high-pressure world.

Resources:

https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/emotioncardsbodyoutlines/

https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/understanding-emotions-and-needs/

https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/helping-kids-manage-emotions/

Homework Ideas:

Body Awareness Check-In: At the start and end of the day, pause for 30 seconds to notice what your body feels like. Are your shoulders tense? Is your breathing shallow? Share this practice with your kids or students and ask them to describe their own body signals.

Finger Sensory Practice: Teach kids how to focus their attention by gently rubbing their fingertips together. Show them how to notice the sensations and use this as a reset tool when emotions run high.

Emotion Mapping: Create an "emotion wheel" that matches feelings with physical sensations (e.g., frustration = tight chest, excitement = butterflies). Use it to help kids identify what they’re experiencing in real-time.

Name Your Triggers: Write down a list of common stress triggers. Discuss how each of you feels when faced with those triggers and brainstorm calming strategies together.

Daily Gratitude Game: Everyday, take turns sharing one thing that made you feel safe or happy that day. This reinforces connection and encourages kids to focus on positive experiences.

Connect Through Storytelling: Share a time when you felt scared or stressed and how you calmed yourself down. Encourage kids to share their own stories and celebrate their efforts to manage big emotions.

"Toe Finder" Challenge: During a moment of overwhelm, guide kids to focus on their feet and notice their toes. This quick exercise helps ground them and redirects their attention to the present.

Mirror Emotional Words: Start describing emotions you notice in yourself and your child throughout the day (“You seem frustrated right now” or “I feel excited about this!”). This models emotional literacy and normalizes feelings.

Thrive Brain Reset Jar: Create a jar with small slips of paper listing sensory grounding activities (e.g., "Take a deep breath and count to five," "Find five red things in the room"). When stress spikes, pull a slip and complete the activity together.

About Linda

Linda flips the script on parenting, from tips and tricks to "get" them to obey, listen, mind, do what they're told, etc... to listening, supporting, encouraging and nurturing them, instead. Transforming families from conflict and chaos to peaceful and cooperative through confidential parent coaching. Linda has been helping families reach their own goals since 2002. Author of 3 parenting books, Linda earned her Skilled Communicator designation in 2011 with the organization that was originally Toastmistresses. As a softball umpire for 17 years, she is neutral and observant, quickly seeing the key pieces of a family's struggles.

Get in touch with Linda

Email: Lindaclement@raisingparents.net

FB: www.facebook.com/linda.clement.733/

IG: www.instagram.com/raising_parents_inc

Website: www.raisingparents.net

https://subscribepage.io/mentalfitnessrecorded

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/

Today I had the opportunity to I had the chance to speak with Patricia Morgan about anxiety and trauma. Anxiety and trauma are often closely linked. Indeed, traumatic experiences can lead to the development of anxiety disorders, and individuals who have anxiety disorders may be more susceptible to trauma. This is such an important topic because anxiety and trauma not only affect our mental and physical health, but they can also limit our success in relationships, and even day-to-day functioning.

It is essential to understand the anxiety and trauma and how to address them effectively. This is an important discussion because traumatic events are stored differently in the brain and therefore there are specific treatment considerations.

Tune in for an insightful and informative discussion on managing anxiety and trauma.

About Patricia:

With a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology, Patricia Morgan works with organizations and individuals who want to strengthen their everyday resilience. She provides bite-sized nuggets of insight to help people emerge stronger after facing unthinkable challenge. Patricia’s books include From Woe to WOW: How Resilient Women Succeed at Work and the Canadian bestseller, Frantic Free: 167 Ways to Lighten Up and Calm Down. Patricia was named a Woman of Vision by Global TV and is a recipient of the Spirit of CAPS (Canadian Association of Professional Speakers) for her contribution to the Canadian speaking industry. Patricia is often referred to as a spunky seniorpreneur as she is an author, speaker, therapist, mother to three, grandmother to five, great-grandma to two . . . and happily married most days. ❤️🐞

Follow Patricia:  https://www.solutionsforresilience.com/

Books we discussed in today's episode:

Easy Ego State Interventions: Strategies for working with parts (Robin Shapiro)

Get Past Your Past (Francine Shapiro)

No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model (Dr. Richard Schwartz)

Polyvagal Exercises for Therapists and Clients: 50 Client-Centered Practices (Deb Dana)

The Polyvagal Theory (Stephen Porges)

Homecoming: Reclaiming and Healing your Inner Child (John Bradshaw)

Growing Up Again: Parening Ourselves, Parenting Our Children (Jean Illsley Clarke)

What happened to you? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing (Oprah Winfrey & Bruce Perry)

Atlas of the Heart (Brenee Brown)

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/

Today I jump into a topic that's essential yet often overlooked— the symbiotic relationship between safety and resilience. How do we navigate the tightrope between safeguarding our children from potential dangers and fostering their resilience? This episode aims to shed light on this intricate balance.

I break down the multifaceted roles that safety and resilience play in the lives of our children, especially during an activity as rich in life lessons as trick-or-treating during Halloween. Though at first glance they might appear to be opposing forces—safety being all about caution, and resilience about taking calculated risks—they are, in fact, two sides of the same coin.

Tune in as I discuss promoting both physical and emotional safety while not missing out on valuable opportunities for resilience-building. Facing social anxieties, managing conflict, and dealing with disappointments during trick-or-treating can provide kids with essential life skills like emotional regulation, problem-solving, and adaptability.

We want to:

§ Use safety guidelines as educational tools rather than just protective barriers (and overbearing overprotection)

§ Encourage awareness, responsibility, and decision-making in your children

§  Leverage Halloween experiences for teaching coping mechanisms and emotional regulation

§ Navigate peer dynamics and discuss assertiveness

§ Understand the impact of 'catastrophic language' and how to avoid it

§ Instill in children the ability to make responsible choices

Don't miss this episode where I discuss the layers of safety and resilience, using Halloween as our backdrop, to offer actionable tips for empowering your children. Remember, in every safety guideline lies a golden opportunity for resilience building. Make your Halloween—and every event—a fun and enriching learning experience for your kids.

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/

Perfectionism can silently shape how kids see themselves, and it often starts with the expectations we unintentionally set. In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline Buzanko breaks down how even well-meaning actions can send kids the wrong message, tying their self-worth to performance instead of effort. From focusing too much on results to setting unrealistic behavioural expectations, we’re diving into the subtle ways perfectionism takes root and what we can do to stop it.

Learn practical strategies to celebrate progress, validate emotions, and create a healthier family dynamic.

Challenge this week: Let go of nagging and fixing and start praising effort over results. Small changes can make a big difference!

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/

As the new school year begins, families around the world are preparing to send their children back to school. Amidst the excitement and anticipation, there lies an essential aspect that deserves our utmost attention: instilling healthy habits and routines in children not only during this transitional phase but throughout their lives.

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, I discuss the importance of establishing healthy habits early on and how they can shape a child's future for the better.  We know that habits formed in early years often carry over into adulthood, significantly impacting their overall quality of life.   Importantly, I discuss essential healthy habits that shape our children’s overall health, but also their social-emotional well-being and academic success. I provide insights on how to encourage and reinforce these habits in a positive and nurturing way. And, just as importantly, how to be an effective role model in our child's journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Further, I cannot emphasize enough how important consistent routines are to provide stability and a sense of security, promoting emotional well-being.

As we navigate the challenges of modern-day distractions, screen time, and peer influence, it s essential to uncover strategies to help children develop resilience and self-discipline. Join me as we champion the cause of establishing healthy habits and routines for kids. Don't miss this episode, with practical tips to nurture a healthier and happier tomorrow.

Check out these additional resources:

• Comprehensive guide to conquering back-to-school anxiety: https://bit.ly/Conquering_Back-to-School_Anxiety
• Critical routines your children need to develop: https://korupsychology.ca/essential-routines-for-success-and-well-being/
• The importance of healthy habits: https://korupsychology.ca/establish-healthy-habits/

Prefer to watch? https://youtu.be/AlKfEcday-w

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/

As the new school year approaches, ensuring a smooth and confident transition for our children and teens is crucial. In this popular episode of Overpowering Emotions, I provide many practical tips and strategies to support your kids as they navigate the back-to-school season.

In this episode, I emphasize the importance of establishing general routines that lay the foundation for a successful school year.

For additional resources, don’t miss my comprehensive guide on conquering back-to-school anxiety (https://bit.ly/conquerbacktoschoolanxiety) and my article on essential routines that your children need to develop (https://korupsychology.ca/essential-routines-for-success-and-well-being/). 

Let’s work together to set our kids up for success as they head back to school!

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/

While it's completely normal for young children to experience separation anxiety, when these feelings persist into the elementary years and beyond, it may indicate a more serious concern. This is particularly true when anxiety starts interfering with everyday activities, such as attending school or socializing with friends.

To effectively support your child, it's crucial to avoid common pitfalls like allowing avoidance or providing excessive reassurance, as these can unintentionally reinforce anxiety rather than alleviate it.

In today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I revisit these challenges and share a more effective approach. It’s vital for children to learn how to navigate these uncomfortable emotions, empowering them to take control of their anxiety and build resilience.

Tune in to discover how to create a supportive environment that fosters emotional growth and helps children manage separation anxiety in a constructive way.

By understanding and addressing separation anxiety, you are taking a critical step toward helping kids develop a foundation of emotional resilience that will benefit them throughout their lives.

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/

I had loads of questions about conditioned safety learning and whether this is a good thing or not. No! Conditioned safety learning can also make anxiety worse. Listen in on today's episode to learn more about conditioned safety learning and how to avoid it.

You can also watch here!

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/

Welcome to the next installment of this Back to School Success Series! As parents and educators, we all share the common goal of helping our kids thrive emotionally and academically. A key element in this journey is fostering a sense of achievement within the school environment.

In today's episode, we explore a fundamental aspect of academic accomplishment that reaches beyond mere grades – the art of Goal Setting. This skill acts as a cornerstone for success, empowering students to become confident, self-assured learners who are ready to conquer challenges and embrace growth.

Join me as we dive into the heart of this transformative skill and uncover how goal-setting can pave the way for a brighter future for our children. Together, let's equip the next generation with the tools they need to flourish academically and beyond.

Be sure to check out this SMART GOAL worksheet to get you started! 

AND check out these other resources:

• Problem solving (https://korupsychology.ca/develop-problem-solving-skills/)
• Making informed decisions (https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/resilience-unleashed-7088903090866712577/)
• Goal setting post: https://korupsychology.ca/setting-goals/

Prefer to WATCH? https://youtu.be/paQ4jRsWCAs

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/

I have talked lots about responding effectively to anxiety and other big feelings.  It is critical I address it again in this skills-building series because, even if we don't ever get to the kids' skill-building, how adults respond to big emotions when they show up makes all the difference in the world. And hearing it again is important because parents need lots of reminders and practice so get unstuck from our habitual (and unhelpful) ways of responding.

Adults need to learn how to become effective emotion coaches. And I talk about how to do this (with one key, easy communication hack parents can master today) in this episode, so be sure to listen in!

You can also check out these resources to help parents become effective communicators with their kiddos.

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/

In today’s installment of my comorbidity series, I explore the relationship between depression and anxiety, two of the most common mental health disorders that affect millions of people worldwide, and why they often occur together.

These diagnoses are often talked about separately, but they often coexist. In fact, more than half of the people experiencing depression also have anxiety.

Although there are key differences, there are a lot of similarities between anxiety and depression as well, including some overlapping symptoms and contributing factors.

This is an important topic because, when they co-occur, they can reinforce each other and even make each other worse.

It is therefore important to understand the key pathways to depression and anxiety and what we need to prioritize to help children and teens manage these effectively. Especially since treatment can look very different from treating one alone. And focusing on the wrong thing can actually make things worse. All things I discuss today, so be sure to listen in!

Prefer to watch? You can check out my video: https://youtu.be/iJzLGFG_CZU 

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/

In today's episode, I readdress tics, OCD, and anxiety.

Although understanding the differences is important because treatment options can be very different, how we adults respond to tics, obsessions and compulsions, or anxious thoughts is very similar. And yes, there are ways that are help our kiddos manage the difficulties they experience  and ways that only make things worse.

In today’s episode, I re-emphasize the importance of responding effectively when anxiety (and all its manifestations) shows up. Whether it is tics, anxiety, or big emotional outbursts, we need to respond in helpful ways.

This is a theme you hear me talk a lot about because our responses can make all the difference in the world.

Want to watch? You can here: https://youtu.be/XI1El0oHMas

Episode 67

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/

Welcome to another invigorating episode of Overpowering Emotions, your guide to building resilient, empowered kids! 

In this segment, Dr. Caroline discusses the dynamic world of parental involvement and its profound impact on children’s academic success.

Join her as she shares ways to foster strong parent-teacher relationships, amplify the educational journey, and nurture a supportive environment that propels student growth. 

From regular communication to practical engagement, she uncovers the power of positive parental involvement that paves the way for a brighter, more successful future. 

Tune in now!

Be sure to also check out her post on this very topic: https://korupsychology.ca/parental-engagement-in-school

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, I dive back into emotional intelligence (EI) as the foundation for resilience. Discover why teaching kids to recognize and manage their emotions is far more impactful than simply correcting behaviour.

I dig even deeper than before, so this will cover a few episodes Today I break down the four branches of EI and share practical strategies to help kids build self-awareness, empathy, and emotional regulation. This is the first step in our journey to continue nurturing emotional resilience in the year to come.

Ideas to work on this week:

• Model Emotional Awareness: Regularly name and express your emotions in front of kids to normalize emotional conversations. When frustrations arise, model taking a deep breath or stepping away momentarily. Narrate this to help kids understand the importance of pausing and responding thoughtfully.
• Emotion Check-Ins: Set up daily or weekly emotion check-ins with kids. Use simple prompts like, “How are you feeling today and why?”
• Labeling Emotions: Encourage kids to identify and name their emotions during different situations, both positive and challenging.
• Gratitude Practice: Start a daily gratitude ritual by asking kids to name three things they are grateful for.

Key Points covered:

• Emotional Intelligence (EI) is essential for raising resilient kids.
• Identifying strong EI skills in kids.
• EI focuses on recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions in oneself and others.
• Emotional regulation helps prevent meltdowns, sibling conflicts, and frustration.
• The four branches of EI include:

1. Perceiving Emotions
2. Facilitating Thought with Emotions
3. Understanding Emotions
4. Managing Emotions

• Strong EI correlates with better relationships, empathy, and confidence in kids.
• Modeling EI as adults is crucial to teaching it effectively.
• Simple practices like labeling emotions, gratitude exercises, and role-playing help foster EI.

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/

Today I am talking about how we can optimize the brain's resistance by integrating fear extinction, mindfulness, and acceptance into one session. See faster and long-lasting progress when you can skillfully integrate each of these pieces together.

You can also WATCH this week's episode!

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/

In part 2 of my discussion on test anxiety, I go through more practical and effective strategies, such as study strategies, and things students can do during and after the test to manage test anxiety and optimize their academic success now and into the future.

Want to watch this episode? You can also watch it here: https://youtu.be/ZSPzjTwbpb0

AND, be sure to check out this Test Taking Skills resource (https://korupsychology.ca/essentialskillsfortesttaking/)

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/

I am so excited for today’s episode, as it is the first time I have another guest on the show. 

In today’s episode, Kristy and I talk about her journey learning to manage anxiety and feeling the need for "more" when it came to seeking help for her own anxiety.

We swing the conversation over to parenting and how critical it is to manage our own anxiety as parents to support our anxious children effectively. And how we can respond in helpful ways when their anxiety shows up!

And, inevitably, we discuss the influence screens have on kids' emotional well-being and the need to set healthy boundaries around screen time use. Kristy shares great tips to think about – be sure to listen in!

Meet Kristy!

Kristy is a healthcare professional with over a decade of experience. She worked primarily as a Nurse in the medical field for eight years, then worked in other healthcare sectors. She is passionate about helping to reduce burnout in an industry prone to it through empowering a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. She does this through self-care practices defined by the individual. As explained in her upcoming book, "The 30-day Self-care solution for Nurses - Reduce burnout and build stronger boundaries and relationships."

Visit Kristy's website

Connect on Instagram:

@kristyanne_health

@project_inbetween

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/

In today’s episode of Overpowering Emotions, I delve into the intricate workings of the nervous system and uncover the crucial link between our brain, body, and emotional well-being.

Anxiety and trauma affect millions of individuals worldwide, presenting complex challenges that can significantly impact daily life. To effectively address and navigate these experiences, it is essential to understand the nervous system. As we dissect the intricate web of neurons and synapses, we discover how our brain and body communicate to shape our emotional responses.

Throughout this episode, I break down the complex nature of the nervous system and offer invaluable insights into the connection between the nervous system and pathways involved in anxiety and trauma responses. Understanding how the nervous system interacts with and influences our emotions, thoughts, and behaviours is critical to helping kiddos manage their anxiety. After all, our nervous system has a remarkable capacity to adapt and rewire itself to foster resilience and promote healing.

Prefer to watch? Check out the video at https://youtu.be/M59UlL6tohQ

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/

It is easy to get caught in the endless cycle of pleasing others at the expense of our own well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, we are facing more demands than ever before, contributing to our own emotional exhaustion (and children’s dysregulation).

In today’s episode, guest expert Dr. Iris discusses the signs of burnout and how we can find our joy and take care of ourselves. And, become master co-regulators to promote our children’s emotional well-being as well.

This is more than just a parenting discussion; it's a deep dive into understanding ourselves and making choices that bring us closer to who we want to be.   Don't miss this conversation that could very well be the catalyst for your own emotional liberation.

About Dr. Iris Van Nespen

Dr. Iris is a life coach that focuses on joy. She believes that's when we are truest to who we are. We can change the world through joy and kindness. It's also in those moments that we give the best and the most of who we are.

As a woman, mother and physician, having worked in different places in the world, she loves sharing what she has learned about living a life true to yourself, as a complete human being on this beautiful planet.

https://www.facebook.com/irisvannespen

https://lp.reclaimyoursparkle.coach/overwhelm

www.reclaimyoursparkle.coach

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/

To kick off my 100th! episode of Overpowering Emotions, I wanted to revisit the BEST OF my Back to School success episodes. This three-part series is one of the most crucial topics I have addressed on this show and that holds immense significance in the realm of education. Specifically: School-avoidant behaviours.  School avoidance (or refusal) is a multifaceted concern that necessitates a three-part dissection to adequately address its complexities. 

In this first segment, I establish the fundamental pillars of thought that must be laid to provide these students with a strong foundation for their journey toward success.  This episode is not one to be overlooked, as the issue of school avoidance is a genuine crisis. The absence of proper support places these students in a state of vulnerability, exposing them to an array of risks spanning social, emotional, psychological, and even physical well-being.  

For those eager to take a deep dive into the subject and acquire an in-depth understanding of conducting a functional analysis to decode the intricacies of student behaviour, as well as crafting a potent re-entry strategy to effectively manage school avoidance, I'd love to have you join my School Refusal training (https://bit.ly/schoolrefusalworkshop). Your proactive participation could make a transformative difference in the lives of these students.

Prefer to watch? https://youtu.be/VlwOAsc1iOU

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/

I am so excited to have Shyness expert Nadia Finer join me on today's episode. Nadia believes it's okay to be shy and that, in fact, shyness is an essential factor in today's world. Nadia is on a softly spoken mission to help shy people be more mighty. She's the UK's leading shyness expert; the author of two books about shyness – Shy and Mighty (published by Quercus) and Shy and Mighty for Kids, (published by DK), the host of the Shy and Mighty podcast, and a coach specializing in shyness.

Nadia knows what it's like to struggle with shyness. You see, all her life she's had a little voice. Really little. The kind of voice that makes random people tell Nadia that she should be a cartoon voice-over actress. A voice so little that when strangers ring her house phone, they ask Nadia to put her mum on the phone. It's no wonder she's often shy and self-conscious!

Nadia believes that shyness is not a weakness, or a shameful secret. Shy people are not broken. And they don't need to change who they are. Nadia is a regular speaker in organizations and schools around the UK. She has appeared on Radio 4 Saturday Live, Woman's Hour, and the ITV News. She's been in the Times, Guardian, the Telegraph, The Telegraph, The Independent, and in Good Housekeeping.

On today's episode, we discuss:

*  What shyness really is and why we feel shy

*  How to work with your shyness instead of against it

*  Why the world needs shy people

*  How to turn your shyness into a superpower

About Nadia Finer

For 15 years, Nadia Finer has helped people of all ages to overcome insecurities and fears to achieve their dreams. With more than 50 percent of the world population experiencing shyness, Nadia's work to raise awareness of shyness in schools and organisations has helped change thousands of lives.

Check out Nadia´s socials below

https://www.facebook.com/iamshyandmighty

https://www.instagram.com/iamshyandmighty/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadiafiner/ https://twitter.com/nadiafiner

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/

On today's episode of Overpowering Emotions, I talk about how to help kiddos who are scared to use the bathroom in public. While this is true for a lot of young children, there are still a lot of older children - even tweens and teens - who continue to avoid using public toilets.

Fear of going using the public bathroom is common, but not talked about, which is why it's important to open the conversation.

Unfortunately, so many kiddos "hold" all day, which can lead to long-term health problems. While parents tend to accommodate kids when they are young (e.g., avoiding going out in the first place),  accommodations are not sustainable and only make anxiety worse.

We need to help kids manage this fear sooner than later (it's definitely easier to help them learn to cope when they are younger but it's never too late - even for our tweens and teens).

In today's episode, I share simple ideas to help kiddos learn to go to the bathroom in public successfully.

Prefer to watch? You can here: https://youtu.be/OhjdZMU2MXU

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/

I am so excited to be on Sydney Torres' Balance Health Now Podcast.

Does your child or teen suffer from anxiety? Feelings of anxiety can be extremely overwhelming especially for kids and teens. As parents or caretakers how do we help them manage and regulate their behavior while giving them freedom to develop more independence.

In this special episode, I provide solutions for helping parents support their anxious children. Learn how to turn disadvantages into advantages and move past the daily struggles.

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/

In today’s episode, I continue my discussion on Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and the best way to support these kiddos. I discuss the importance of understanding the child or teen’s unique profile, including their sensory needs and communication style in creating the most effective support.

The typical strategies we would use to support anxious, or even autistic, children and teens do not necessarily work with these kiddos.  Learn what does work and how interventions can be adapted using a collaborative and flexible approach.

Given that PDA is relatively new, this is an important episode for anyone working with neurodivergent kiddos who have trouble managing the demands of everyday life. You will gain valuable insights into how to support these complex and often misunderstood kiddos.

And, if you missed part one last week, be sure to go back and listen in because I talk about key characteristics of PDA, including the avoidance of demands, difficulties with social communication, and a need for control.

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, we’re tackling the one thing that can completely sabotage a child's mental health.

Perfectionism. Today, we explore what it looks like, where it comes from, and how it impacts their emotional well-being. We break down the difference between healthy striving and unhealthy perfectionism, and why it’s so important for children to learn that mistakes are not just okay, but a necessary part of growth.

Learn how perfectionistic thinking traps kids in anxiety, procrastination, and avoidance, and discover practical strategies to help them shift to a healthier mindset. This episode is packed with actionable tips to support kids in becoming resilient, confident learners who embrace challenges and find joy in the process.

And, be sure to check out these homework activities discussed in the episode to help shift perfectionistic thinking and promote a healthier mindset in children.

Model Imperfection in Everyday Life

Start narrating your own mistakes aloud in front of your child. For instance, if you burn dinner, talk through it: “Oops, I got distracted. That’s okay—I’ll adjust and keep going.” Show them how you cope with errors calmly.

Celebrate Mistakes as Learning Opportunities

Create a “Mistake of the Day” tradition. Encourage everyone to share their mistakes and what they learned from them. Turn it into a fun and positive experience by celebrating these moments.

Prefer to watch? Check it out on YouTube!

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/

In today's episode of Overpowering Emotions, I lay the foundation for understanding trauma and anxiety.

Trauma is defined as an event or experience that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope, leading to feelings of intense fear, helplessness, and horror. Anxiety, on the other hand, is an excessive and persistent worry and fear.

While not everyone who experiences trauma develops an anxiety disorder, trauma can be a significant risk factor for developing anxiety. Trauma can alter the brain's stress response system, making individuals more sensitive to stress and more prone to anxiety. Additionally, avoidance behaviours that may develop as a coping mechanism after trauma can also contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.

Listen in to hear more about trauma and anxiety in Part 1 of this series.

Prefer to watch? https://youtu.be/zwkoTMSZh9U

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/

While I typically focus on the things in our environment that maintain anxiety, understanding what happens in the brain is important to know as well. In today's episode, I talk all about the different parts of the brain that influences anxiety, as well as the neurotransmitters and hormones that are involved. You can also WATCH HERE.

Interested in deep diving even further with me? CONTACT ME for more information!

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/

Today on #OverpoweringEmotions, Dr. Caroline discusses how parental perfectionism spills over to kids, creating a cycle of anxiety, fear of failure, and unrealistic expectations.

Dr. Caroline shares personal insights on recognizing perfectionist tendencies in ourselves, the negative effects on kids, and, most importantly, practical ways to break this cycle. Learn how to model self-compassion, celebrate mistakes, and focus on progress, not perfection, for a healthier family dynamic.

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/

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline Buzanko welcomes Stephanie Elliston to chat about resilience. They explore its stages and how to build resilience muscles. Stephanie shares personal anecdotes and professional insights to illustrate the power of resilience during life's most challenging changes. Learn practical strategies to foster resilience in yourself and the children you support, ensuring a healthier, more adaptive approach to change.

About Stephanie

Stephanie is a Certified Professional Coach and the owner of The Steady Elevation; pairing with businesses and individuals to elevate their potential. She is a self-awareness speaker, DISC practitioner, and core energy coach with intentions of increasing confidence towards the desired outcomes. She is trained to remove the blocks and influences that prevent people from reaching their highest elevation.

Get in touch:

Website: www.thesteadyelevation.com

Instagram: Stephanie Elliston, CPC (@thesteadyelevation)

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieelliston/

Book A Call: https://thesteadyelevation.com/book-a-call

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/

Valentine’s can come with a lot of emotional turmoil for children and teens that adults might not even be aware of. There are lots of decisions about what to give and who to give something to while minimizing total humiliation.

And, if kids have expectations that aren’t met, such as not getting a card from someone or as many as they get, it could fuel negative narratives they have about themselves. Like they’re not special or liked.

In today’s episode, Caroline talks about, no matter what happens with friends, things adults can do to ensure children feel cherished.

She then talks about how to make others feel loved and appreciated and, ultimately, how to promote prosocial emotions (and strengthen their own resilience and emotion regulation).

Whether you celebrate Valentine’s or not, this is an important episode to establish regular practices and traditions to ensure children and teens’  number one need is met (to belong) while promoting their appreciation for life, others, and themselves.

Prefer to watch? Check out the episode here:  https://youtu.be/dAJYaMHBrHs

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/

In today's recast episode of Overpowering Emotions, I wanted to readdress the often-overlooked realm of safety behaviours and their impact on anxiety, especially in children and teens. Learn about how these behaviours, while seemingly helpful in the short term, can paradoxically worsen anxiety over time by reinforcing the belief that certain situations or feelings are unbearable without certain actions or objects.

I discuss the subtle nuances of safety behaviours, from seemingly harmless acts like wearing a toque with built-in headphones to more overt actions like avoiding social interactions. The episode highlights the importance of distinguishing between healthy safety measures and those that perpetuate anxiety in safe situations.

This is an important episode as I dive into the this complex web of avoidance, reassurance-seeking, and misattributed safety that traps many individuals in a cycle of anxiety.

Join me as I help unravel the intricacies of these safety behaviours, offering insights and strategies to recognize and address these patterns in children and teens. This episode is a crucial listen for anyone seeking to understand and effectively manage anxiety, breaking free from the confines of safety behaviours to embrace a more empowered and resilient approach to life's challenges.

In today's episode we look at safety behaviours and how they make anxiety worse. Essentially, safety behaviours are things children and teens do to feel a little safer and/or less anxious. The problem is, these behaviours reinforce the anxiety story that they can't handle the situation or the discomfort anxiety brings. Therefore, in any work we do, we must ensure there aren't safety behaviours impeding progress in managing anxiety. Be sure to download the safety behaviour handout (https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/safetybehaviours) to use with your anxious children and teens!

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/

Today on #OverpoweringEmotions, listen in to my conversation with inspiring Naomi Reilly, a brain injury survivor who channeled her harrowing experience into becoming a beacon of change in children’s mental health and education reform.

Listen in to hear about Naomi's powerful story of personal triumph, her advocacy for inclusive education, and her actionable strategies for fostering resilience in children. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Tune in to be empowered by Naomi's resilience and learn how to cultivate a mindset of growth and positivity in children.

And be sure to check out all her FREE resources she talks about on the show: https://textpledge.us/teacher-resources/

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/

Loads of kids get stressed when they have to write a test. In fact, most students say that schoolwork and tests are the most stressful things in their lives.

However, when that stress becomes too big, worries can make it hard for students to learn, remember what they learn, think clearly, notice mistakes, and show what they have learned. Test anxiety impairs student success and can even harm their well-being.  It is essential to learn about test anxiety and how to manage it effectively.

Tune in today for part 1 of this important topic.

AND, be sure to check out this Test Taking Skills resource (https://korupsychology.ca/essentialskillsfortesttaking/)

Prefer to watch? You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/PjUUHyIg2UI

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/

Episode #71 of Overpowering Emotions

Today I talk about the link between Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and anxiety.

I walk through several important considerations to lay the foundation to support these children and teens.

The underlying processes of anxiety and ODD are nearly identical. Children or teens who experience either have trouble controlling their emotions and their reactions to those emotions.

We know anxiety shows up differently from one person to the next (e.g., some will withdraw while others may be aggressive and overly disruptive). However, what is the same for both is the underlying anxiety that drives those behavioural reactions.

Indeed, ODD kids pay attention to negative information in their environment and misinterpret situations as threatening – just like anxious kids do. And both avoid. However, those who avoid aggressively (and tend to misinterpret the signals as even more threatening than others) are the ones most likely diagnosed with ODD.

This episode is critical to understand what is going on for these children and teens, including emotion  (dys)regulation and information processing biases, along with their developmental age, parent-child interactions, accommodations, and control. With this knowledge, we can be far more helpful in our interventions to support them.

In the video I also talked about a few things you can check out:

Mad Cat Burger and Fries video (to see how other animals tend to respond aggressively when scared): https://ca.video.search.yahoo.com/search/video?fr=mcafee&ei=UTF-8&p=youtube+mad+cat+burger+and+fries&type=E211CA105G0#id=1&vid=19ab6b1ac4fa91ace8abf5f52488bda6&action=click

A short video on revenge behaviours from my 30 day parenting challenge:  https://youtu.be/He1_jdhm9mE

And the accompanying parenting challenge workbook:  https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/parentingchallengebook/

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/

Today is the first day of my summer series in which I am focusing on emotion regulation and anxiety management skill-building. Over the next two months, the goal here is to help families develop the understanding and skills they need to help children and teens start their new school year off on the right foot.

I have touched on this before, but a major mistake I see is when a therapist is working alone with the child or teen, trying to work on their skill development. However, emotion regulation and anxiety management is a family process. (After all, the greatest predictor of anxiety disorders in kids is having parents who model anxious behaviours.)

When we look at things like resilience and emotion regulation, child skills are the last to develop. (Check out my resilience pyramid: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/pyramidofresilience/).

Resilience is more about what we receive from the world around us than the skills we have. Therefore, we first need to ensure the environment is set up for emotion regulation success. A key part of that is ensuring that the adults in that child’s life are responding to anxiety and other bog emotions in helpful ways when they show up. And trying to make a child feel better is not helpful.

Parents and caregivers must take the role of active leadership and set boundaries for anxiety and other big emotions. Find out more in today’s episode! And be sure to join me for the rest of the summer where we will be focusing on building parents' and caregivers' co-regulation skills, stress management, and of course, the kiddos' skills in emotion regulation as well.

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/

As I work through some of the biggest anxiety-provoking school-related things for students, today I talk about perfectionism. 

Perfectionism has steadily increased over the years, with our younger generations establishing increasingly more extreme standards for themselves, which can be crippling.

It is critical we address perfectionism before anything else. Otherwise, we won't get very far in helping children and teens manage anxiety or other big feelings. Perfectionism contributes to, and even maintains, whatever struggles a student has, whether self-doubt, worries, or depression. 

If we can see improvement with perfectionism, everything else may improve too.

Don't miss this two-part series! These students need our help. 

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/

Today on Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline discusses the critical competencies essential for children's emotional development. Emotional self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy are examples of a few key components of emotional intelligence, and they play a pivotal role in fostering resilience in children and teens. Listen in to learn more and why they are crucial for children's success in life.

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/

The holidays can be a mix of joy and stress. In this special episode of Overpowering Emotions, we explore practical ways to strengthen resilience during the busiest time of the year. From setting realistic expectations to practicing gratitude and mindfulness, you’ll discover how to create meaningful moments, manage family dynamics, and build lasting traditions. Learn how to turn holiday challenges into growth opportunities for your family while staying focused on what truly matters.

Bonus: actionable tips and homework to help you and your kids reflect on the resilience built over the past year.

🎧 Tune in now to make this holiday season more connected and fulfilling.

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/