Feelings Thermometer Daily Check In
Build a feelings thermometer with a sliding marker to check in on emotion intensity daily — a visual tool for understanding big feelings.
What You'll Need
- 1Cardstock or posterboard
- 2Markers or paint in gradient colors
- 3Clothespin or paper arrow for slider
- 4Tape or velcro dots
What You'll Need
Cardstock or posterboard for the thermometer
Markers or paint in a gradient (blue, green, yellow, orange, red)
A clothespin or paper arrow as a sliding marker
Tape or velcro dots to make the slider movable
How to Play
Draw a tall thermometer shape on cardstock.
Label levels from bottom to top: Calm, Okay, A Little Upset, Frustrated, Very Upset, Exploding.
Color each level in a gradient: cool blue at the bottom, warm red at the top.
Make a slider — a clothespin on the edge or an arrow attached with velcro.
Explain: "This shows how BIG your feelings are. Where are you right now?"
Practice daily check-ins: morning, after school, before bed. Move the slider each time.
At each level, brainstorm coping strategies: "When I'm at Frustrated, I can take deep breaths or go outside."
Why It Works
The thermometer makes the abstract intensity of emotions visible and measurable. "I'm at a 3" is easier to communicate than trying to explain the difference between mildly annoyed and deeply frustrated. This tool teaches emotional granularity — the ability to distinguish between similar but different emotional states. Kids who can identify "I'm at Frustrated but not Very Upset" can choose an appropriate response before escalating. The daily check-in builds self-awareness as a habit.
Tips
Add body sensations at each level: "Frustrated feels like tight muscles. Very Upset feels like wanting to scream."
Hang it in a visible spot — the fridge, their bedroom door, or near the calm-down corner.
Use it yourself: "I'm at A Little Upset right now. I'm going to take a walk." Model openly.
Never use the thermometer against them: "You're at exploding!" should never be an accusation. Always let them self-identify.
Age Adaptation Tips
School-age kids can take more ownership. Let them lead the activity, experiment with variations, and explain what they learned.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 25 min, with 15 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: cardstock or posterboard, markers or paint in gradient colors, clothespin or paper arrow for slider, tape or velcro dots.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 5-8 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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