243. Could Oxytocin Be the Missing Piece in Emotional Regulation?
About this episode
Dr. Caroline discusses the role of oxytocin in emotional regulation and resilience for children and teens.
This week on Overpowering Emotions , Dr. Caroline explores the connection between oxytocin, anxiety, emotional regulation, and resilience in kids and teens. Often called the “bonding hormone,” oxytocin helps calm the nervous system, lower cortisol, strengthen emotional safety, and support healthy relationships. Dr. Caroline shares practical ways adults can naturally boost oxytocin throughout the day using simple moments. She also explains why emotionally safe relationships help children recover from stress faster and why small daily interactions matter more than we think. You’ll hear easy ideas that can be used in any context and during everyday routines to help children feel connected, regulated, and ready to learn. This episode is packed with real-life examples, including Caroline’s “6 Mississippi hugs,” sibling love jars, welcome rituals, grounding exercises, and playful connection moments that support calmer, more resilient kids. Homework Activities Practice “6 Mississippi hugs” each day Create a morning or after-school welcome ritual Use eye contact, smiles, and warm greetings intentionally Start a sibling or classroom kindness jar Have kids identify acts of kindness they…
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