Name My Emotions: How to Use a Feelings Chart with Your Kids
Naming My Emotions: How to use our free feelings chart with your kids
As parents, we often hear the simple phrase, "Name your emotions," but what does it really look like in action? When a child is swept up in a storm of big emotions, simply telling them to "name their feeling" can feel impossible. That's why we created our free printable "Naming My Emotions" chart—to be the gentle guide that bridges the gap from chaos to calm.
This isn't just a chart with faces; it's a tool for connection. It’s designed to help you and your child practice co-regulation by creating a shared language for feelings. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to bringing this mindful practice into your home.
Step 1: Create a safe space for emotions
The chart works best when it's part of a routine, not a demand. Find a special, calm spot in your home—your "pebble path" corner. Hang the printable there at your child's eye level. Introduce it during a peaceful moment, not during a tantrum. Let it become a familiar and safe presence.
Step 2: Start with the basics (the faces)
Our chart includes a list of feelings with corresponding faces, making it easy for even toddlers to point to what they feel. Start by just playing with it. Take turns mimicking the faces on the chart in a playful way. Talk about what each emotion looks like and sounds like.
Step 3: Connect feelings to the body
This is where the real magic of intentional reflection happens. Our chart includes two key questions that guide a child beyond simply labeling an emotion:
- "Where does this emotion show up in my body?" This helps your child become aware of the physical sensations that accompany their feelings. They might say their tummy feels tight when they're nervous or their face feels hot when they're angry.
- "How does this emotion feel?" This encourages a deeper, more nuanced conversation, helping them articulate the experience in their own words.
Step 4: Practice co-regulation in the moment
When a moment of distress occurs, resist the urge to problem-solve immediately. Focus on being your child's anchor. Once they are calm enough, use the chart to guide them.
- You can say: "I could see you were having a hard time. Let's look at our feelings chart. What were you feeling?"
- You can model: "I got frustrated earlier when my keys were missing. I felt it in my chest, and it felt tight."
By modeling this process, you are showing your child that emotions are normal and manageable, and that you are their trusted guide on this journey.
Free download: Your guide to calmer conversations
Ready to start building a stronger emotional foundation with your child? Download your free printable "Naming My Emotions" chart.
It's our hope that this simple, intentional tool helps turn your family's challenging moments into moments of deeper connection and understanding.