209. How can excitement help kids learn—and when does it tip into chaos?

In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline explores the often-overlooked role of pleasant emotions in self-regulation. From the high-energy buzz of excitement and joy to the quiet calm of contentment and gratitude, she unpacks what these feelings signal, the needs behind them, and how adults can guide children to channel them in healthy ways.

Learn how excitement fuels motivation but can tip into dysregulation without support, why pride is a powerful pro-social emotion, and how gratitude and love deepen connection and resilience. Caroline shares practical strategies that help kids strengthen their emotional awareness and regulation skills.

Learn actionable tools to nurture children’s motivation, curiosity, and sense of belonging while reinforcing the “rest stops” of calm and contentment that every child needs.

Homework Ideas

Help kids learn to:

Channel excitement:

• Use countdown calendars, planning rituals, or physical play to help kids release energy safely.
• Redirect silliness into storytelling, drawing, or creative outlets.

Savour Joy:

• Pause in the moment and ask: What feels good right now?
• Create joy rituals: end-of-day reflections, photo sharing, or a family “joy jar.”

Reinforce Pride:

• Offer descriptive praise focused on effort, not outcomes.
• Help kids create a “brag book” or journal for proud moments.

Cultivate Curiosity:

• Model open-ended questions (“I wonder…”).
• Provide exploration opportunities—STEM kits, nature walks, disassembling old gadgets.

Anchor Calm & Contentment:

• Build quiet, screen-free downtime into daily routines.
• Use grounding practices (breathing, mindfulness, cozy snuggles, weighted blankets).

Encourage Gratitude & Love:

• End the day with “3 things I’m grateful for.”
• Practice small acts of kindness—thank-you notes, hugs, or helping tasks.

🛠️ 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/