Feelings Thermometer for Children: A Guide for Parents
The Feelings Thermometer (chart) is a powerful visual tool designed to help children recognize and communicate their emotions effectively. By using a simple thermometer scale from "calm" to "very upset," children can better understand their feelings, which promotes emotional awareness and regulation. When children can accurately identify and express their emotions, it enhances their ability to manage stress, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills.
Before introducing the Feelings Thermometer to your child, take a moment to familiarize yourself with each feeling—Angry, Upset, Afraid, Sad or Bored, and Happy. Click on each emotion below, and you will find signs and behaviors to look for, safe ways for parents to respond, and activity ideas that support emotional understanding. This preparation ensures that the tool is used effectively, fostering a supportive environment where children feel understood and empowered to share their feelings. When used consistently, the Feelings Thermometer can significantly improve communication, emotional regulation, and overall well-being for children and their families.
Before introducing the Feelings Thermometer to your child, take a moment to familiarize yourself with each feeling—Angry, Upset, Afraid, Sad or Bored, and Happy. Click on each emotion below, and you will find signs and behaviors to look for, safe ways for parents to respond, and activity ideas that support emotional understanding. This preparation ensures that the tool is used effectively, fostering a supportive environment where children feel understood and empowered to share their feelings. When used consistently, the Feelings Thermometer can significantly improve communication, emotional regulation, and overall well-being for children and their families.
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Once you are familiar with the feeling's thermometer come back to this home page, print one out by selecting here, then following the instructions below with your child.
1. Introduce the Thermometer
Explain to your child that it’s a tool to help them understand and share their feelings. Show them the different colors and feelings associated with each level.
2. Identify Feelings
When your child is experiencing emotions, ask them to point to or describe where they feel on the thermometer. For example:
- "Are you feeling calm or a little worried?"
- "Can you find where your feelings are right now?"
3. Label Emotions
Help your child label their feelings based on where they point. This builds emotional vocabulary and awareness.
4. Discuss Coping Strategies
Once they identify their level, talk about ways to move toward the green (calm) zone. For example:
- Deep breathing for orange or red feelings.
- Taking a break or calming activity.
5. Check-In Regularly
Use the thermometer during different parts of the day—before a test, after a disagreement, or during calm moments—to build awareness and self-regulation.
Tips for Parents and Caregivers
- Keep their feelings thermometer in a visible, accessible place.
- Reinforce that all feelings are okay and that the thermometer helps us understand and manage them.
- Practice using the thermometer during calm times so your child becomes comfortable with it.
- Celebrate their ability to recognize and express feelings.
Seek Support When Needed
In the United States:
Globally:
- Call “988” Crisis Lifeline
- Call Teen Line 800-852-8336 or Text TEEN to 839863
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) [nami.org], call 800-950-6264, or Text NAMI to 62640
- Find a Therapist, Psychologist, Counselor - Psychology Today
Globally:
Download the Thermometer Feelings Charts Below
The Feelings Thermometer can be downloaded by selecting below for "My Feelings Chart" and "Out Family Feelings Chart", including instructions and examples.
My Feelings ChartExample
Instructions
My Feelings Chart
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Our Family Feelings ChartExample
Instructions
Our Family Feelings Chart
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Disclaimer
The feelings thermometer (chart) is a helpful tool to assist children in identifying and expressing their emotions. However, it is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If your child experiences persistent or intense emotional difficulties, please seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional. This tool is meant to support emotional awareness and regulation in conjunction with appropriate support and intervention.
