Pick a feeling for right now

Student page

“I can show how I feel without telling the whole class why.”

Point to a feeling

Happy

Sad

Worried

Mad

These faces are examples. People can show the same feeling in different ways.

More than one

You can point to two feelings.

Something else

You can say a different feeling word.

Pass

You can keep it private.

Try it with a made-up story

Jules is starting a new game

Jules wants to play but doesn’t know the rules yet. What might Jules feel? Point to one or two choices.

Your turn, if you want

Point to how you feel right now, tell an adult privately, or pass.

Teacher guide

4 minutes • Show the four faces. No writing needed.

When to use it

During a morning check-in or after a change in routine.

Why this activity

A picture gives young students a way to show a feeling before they have the words for it.

What to say and do

1. Read the four words. Say “People show feelings in different ways.”

2. Read the Jules story. Invite students to point to a feeling or say a different word.

3. Offer an optional personal check-in. Let students point, tell you privately, or pass.

What to listen or look for

Jules might feel happy to play and worried about the rules. Other feelings can fit too. Accept a choice without asking the student to explain a personal feeling in front of the group.

Background and activity inspiration

https://ggie.berkeley.edu/practice/feelings-circle-for-kindergarten-sel-kernel/