As someone who works closely with kids, I always look for ways to help them better understand and express their inner worlds. One tool I’ve found incredibly useful is a feelings vs emotions chart. It’s a simple yet powerful visual aid that can help kids (and adults!) differentiate between these two closely related but distinct concepts. And the best part? You can download a free printable version to use with your own kids!
Table of Contents
What’s the Difference Between Feelings and Emotions?
While feelings and emotions are often used interchangeably, there are some important distinctions between the two:
- Feelings are the mental experiences of body states, including physiological reactions like hunger, thirst, and pain. They arise from the body’s physical sensations and are more immediate and short-lived.
- Emotions are complex psychological states that involve subjective experiences, physiological responses, and expressive behaviors. Our thoughts, memories, and experiences shape them and tend to be longer-lasting than feelings.
In other words, feelings are the raw data our bodies provide, while emotions are the mind’s interpretation of that data. For example, when a child scrapes their knee, they may feel pain, which could trigger the emotion of sadness, anger, or even embarrassment, depending on the context and their unique perspective.
Read more: Feelings Wheel | Free Printable
Real-Life Examples of Feelings vs Emotions
To further clarify the difference between feelings and emotions, let’s look at some common scenarios kids might encounter:
| Situation | Feeling | Emotion |
|---|---|---|
| Winning a game | Excitement, energy | Joy, pride |
| Losing a toy | Disappointment, emptiness | Sadness, frustration |
| Meeting a new person | Nervousness, butterflies in stomach | Shyness, curiosity |
As you can see, feelings are the immediate, physical sensations, while emotions are the more complex, nuanced interpretations of those sensations. Helping kids recognize and name their feelings and emotions is crucial in developing emotional intelligence.
Why Understanding Feelings vs Emotions Matters for Kids
So why does this difference matter, especially for kids? Well, research shows that children with a better understanding of emotions tend to form stronger friendships, have higher self-esteem, and even perform better academically. A study by Yale University found that preschoolers who participated in an emotions learning program had better social skills and fewer behavior problems.
But for kids with learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, or other neurodivergent traits, identifying and expressing feelings and emotions can be especially challenging. They may have trouble reading facial expressions and social cues or have bigger, more intense emotional reactions to things.
That’s why directly teaching kids about feelings and emotions is so important. When kids have the language to express how they’re feeling, it’s easier for them to understand their own emotions, ask for help when they need it, and respond to others with empathy. Plus, it helps us as parents better understand and support our kids through life’s ups and downs.
Read more: Free Printable Emotional Regulation Worksheets
Using a Feelings vs Emotions Chart with Your Child
So, how can you use a feelings vs emotions chart to support your child’s emotional growth? Here are a few tips:
- Print out the chart and display it in a prominent place, like on the fridge or in your child’s room.
- When your child experiences a strong feeling or emotion, encourage them to find the corresponding word on the chart. This helps them build an emotional vocabulary and normalize discussing their inner experiences.
- Model using the chart yourself! Share your feelings and emotions with your child, pointing to the relevant words on the chart. This shows them that everyone experiences a range of emotions and that talking about them is okay.
- Use the chart as a starting point for deeper emotional conversations. Ask your child questions like, “What made you feel that way?” or “How did your body feel when you were angry?” This helps them develop self-awareness and reflect on their experiences.
Remember, every child is unique and will engage with the chart in their own way. Some may need more prompting, while others will naturally gravitate towards it. Trust the process and know you’re providing a valuable tool for your child’s emotional development.
More Tips for Emotional Development
In addition to the feelings vs emotions sorting game, here are a few other suggestions I often share with parents to support kids’ emotional awareness and regulation:
- Read books about emotions together. Story books are a great way to teach emotional intelligence. Pause to discuss how different characters are feeling and what clues tell you that.
- Model labeling your own emotions. Kids learn so much just by watching us. Narrate your feelings and emotional reactions out loud, like “I’m feeling really frustrated right now trying to open this jar! I’m going to take a deep breath and try again.”
- Validate their feelings. When your child is upset, resist the urge to minimize their emotions or distract them right away. Instead, acknowledge and label what they’re feeling: “You seem really disappointed that we can’t go to the park today. It’s okay to feel disappointed sometimes.”
- Practice coping strategies. Talk about and model different ways to deal with big emotions, like deep breathing, counting to 10, asking for a hug, or squishing a stress ball. Brainstorm strategies together and remind your child to use them when emotions run high.
Tired of Emotional Meltdowns?
Goally’s Mood Tuner app has activities for kids with BIG emotions. Teach kids how to tune their mood with Goally. See fewer meltdowns.
The Mood Tuner app encourages kids to look inwards and identify their feelings, helping them understand what’s going on inside. Once they’ve recognized their emotions, they can choose from a 20+ activities designed to help them self-regulate and find their balance.
I hope this post has given you a clearer understanding of the difference between feelings and emotions and inspired you to use a feelings vs emotions chart with your own kids. Remember, emotional development is a journey, and every small step counts. By providing your child with the tools and support they need to navigate their inner world, you’re giving them an incredible gift – one that will continue to enrich their lives for years to come.
Helpful Resources:
FAQs about Feelings vs Emotions Chart
What is a feelings vs emotions chart?
A feelings vs emotions chart is a visual tool that helps differentiate between feelings, which are immediate bodily responses, and emotions, which are more complex and shaped by thoughts and experiences.
How can a feelings vs emotions chart benefit my child?
The chart helps children articulate their internal experiences, fostering emotional literacy and enhancing their ability to manage and communicate their emotions effectively.
At what age should I start using a feelings vs emotions chart with my child?
You can start using the chart as soon as your child begins to talk and express themselves, usually around the age of two or three, as it can aid in early emotional development.
Can adults benefit from using a feelings vs emotions chart?
Absolutely, adults can also benefit from using the chart as it enhances self-awareness and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for personal and professional relationships.
Where should I display the feelings vs emotions chart?
Place the chart in a common area like the living room or your child’s bedroom, where it’s easily accessible. This encourages regular interaction and conversation about feelings and emotions.
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
