Feelings Faces Flashcards

Most kids feel WAY more than they can name. Building a feelings vocabulary turns 'I don't know!' into 'I'm frustrated' — and that's the first step toward regulation.

What you'll need

• Index cards or cardstock
• Markers or crayons
• Mirror (optional, for face-copying)

How to make it

1. Pick 6-8 feelings to start with: happy, sad, mad, scared, calm, silly, embarrassed, proud.
2. Draw a simple face for each (stick-figure level is fine — your child can help).
3. Write the feeling word underneath in big letters.
4. Look in the mirror together and practice making each face.
5. Stack them by the table or fridge as an everyday check-in.

Tips & variations

• Add new cards as your child notices new feelings.
• Use them when YOU feel a feeling too — 'I'm feeling frustrated, can you find that one?'
• Don't quiz — just keep them visible.

Why it helps

Naming a feeling literally calms the amygdala. Giving kids a visible vocabulary lets them point when words are too hard.