Music hits different when it speaks to your soul—and it can do the same for kids. In this episode, Dr. Caroline explores how music affects the brain and the role it can have in helping kids manage emotions. When using music intentionally, not as a distraction but as a tool, the right playlist can help kids process emotions, shift moods, and respond to situations proactively.

Hear more about helping kids build their own music toolbox to boost emotional balance, increase self-awareness, and manage everyday stress. From pump-up jams before a hockey game to sad songs that offer comfort after a rough day, music meets us where we are—and can help guide us forward.

Homework Ideas

Music Toolbox

Help kids create a personalized Music Toolbox with (at least) three intentional playlists:

• Power Playlist – Songs that boost confidence and focus before tough tasks or sports.
• Chill-Out Playlist – Calming tracks to slow breathing and ease transitions or stress.
• Comfort Playlist – Sad or emotionally honest songs to help process and release tough feelings.

Ask:

• “What does this song make you feel?”
• “Where do you feel it in your body?”
• “When would this song help you most?”

Model

Talk about how YOU use music for motivation, calm, and processing emotions. Create and use your own playlists too! Model intentional use of music for emotional regulation.

Experiment

Over the next week, help kids experiment with different genres and tempos of music. Try at least three types of music they don’t normally listen to. After listening to each type for a few minutes, have them jot down their responses:

• What emotion(s) came up?
• Where did you feel it in your body?
• What thoughts popped into your head?
• Would you choose to listen to that again when you feel overwhelmed, sad, bored, anxious, or unmotivated?

Create a Music Reset Plan

Help kids use music proactively for emotional balance and stress regulation. Have them pick a moment during their day when they might feel stressed or scattered and listen to a (helpful) personal playlist to promote balance. Choose 3–5 songs that calm, motivate, or ground. Use it regularly throughout the day every day.

For the first week, it is helpful to answer these reflection questions after each use:

• What mood were you in before you listened?
• What changed (if anything) afterward?
• Was the music helpful for getting back on track?
• Would you change anything on your playlist?

Invite kids to create different versions: a “wake-up reset,” a “pre-test calm,” or a “post-conflict cool-down” playlist.

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/