Kids don’t always slam doors or shout when emotions overwhelm them. Sometimes the signs are quieter—flat energy, withdrawal, or a heavy sadness that feels impossible to shift.

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline explores the “low-energy” emotions that often get misunderstood: loneliness, sadness, disappointment, boredom, confusion, embarrassment, regret, guilt, and shame.

You’ll learn how each of these emotions sends a signal about a child’s deeper needs, why rushing to “cheer them up” backfires, and practical ways to respond with presence and connection. These quieter feelings carry just as much meaning as anger or anxiety. The goal isn’t to fix them—it’s to help kids feel safe enough to sit with them, learn from them, and eventually find their way through.

Homework Ideas:

• Create connection rituals: a bedtime check-in, a morning high-five, or weekly “just us” time.
• Encourage journaling or drawing when kids feel any emotion. This gives emotions a safe outlet.
• Use emotion coaching scripts:
• “It makes sense you feel disappointed—this mattered to you.”
• “Everyone makes mistakes. What can we learn from this one?”
• “Boredom is your brain asking for something meaningful—what could you explore?”
• Provide open-ended opportunities (art supplies, building materials, role play) to turn boredom into curiosity.
• Model healthy shame repair: Share your own small mistakes, show how you recover, and affirm that worth is never on the line.

🛠️ Be sure to grab the emotional literacy workbook https://korulearninginstitute.kit.com/emotionaliteracy

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Want to learn more about helping kids strengthen their emotion regulation skills and problem-solving brains while boosting their confidence, independence, and resilience? Check out my many training opportunities! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/upcoming-events/