Emotion Flashcards

Description: A set of six large, simple flashcards showing different facial expressions and corresponding emotion words. Use these cards to help the student identify and talk about how they feel.

Materials:

• Print and cut out each flashcard, laminating if desired.

Cards:

1. Happy – smiling face, upturned mouth, bright eyes
2. Sad – downturned mouth, teary eyes
3. Angry – furrowed brows, frown
4. Scared – wide eyes, raised eyebrows
5. Calm – gentle smile, relaxed features
6. Missing / Lonely – small frown, soft eyes, head slightly tilted

Usage Instructions:

1. During the warm-up, spread the cards face-up.
2. Invite the student to pick the card that matches how they feel.
3. Ask: “Can you tell me why you chose this face?”
4. Validate and reflect: “I understand you feel __ because __.”
5. Return cards to the pile and mix them before the next session.

Big Bear’s Memory Story

Big Bear lived in a soft, green forest. Every morning, he walked under the tall trees and listened to the wind whisper through the leaves. But today, the forest felt different. The birds’ songs sounded quiet and even the flowers seemed still.

Big Bear missed his best friend, Tiny Squirrel. They used to play hide-and-seek behind the oak trees and share crunchy acorns after they found a good hiding spot. Big Bear could almost hear Tiny Squirrel’s giggle, but he only heard his own quiet footsteps.

Big Bear felt a heavy ache in his heart. A tiny tear rolled down his fuzzy cheek. He wondered where Tiny Squirrel had gone and if he would come back to play again. It was hard to feel so alone.

Just then, Ms. Owl—a wise, kind friend—landed on a low branch above Big Bear’s head. She looked at him with gentle eyes and softly said, “It’s okay to feel sad, dear friend. I’m here with you.”

Ms. Owl nudged Big Bear with her wing and together they sat on a big, mossy rock. Big Bear took a deep breath in and out. He remembered how he and Tiny Squirrel laughed when they chased a falling leaf. He smiled, remembering the bright red leaf dancing in the wind.

With each breath, Big Bear’s heart felt a little lighter. He thought about all the happy times: sharing snacks, singing forest songs, and snuggling under the stars. He carried those memories like a warm hug inside him.

Big Bear wiped away his tear and whispered, “Thank you, Ms. Owl. I will always carry Tiny Squirrel in my heart.” Ms. Owl gave him a gentle nod and said, “Whenever you feel sad, breathe deeply and remember your happy times.”

Big Bear stood up, felt brave, and walked home. He knew it was okay to miss his friend. And he knew his memories would bring him comfort until they could play together again.

Comfort Creature Drawing Sheet

Use this page to draw someone or something you miss and create a special comfort creature to help you feel better.

1. Draw who or what you miss:

2. Draw your comfort creature beside them:
(This can be any animal or make-believe friend that gives you hugs or kind words.)

3. Name your comfort creature: ____________________________

4. What comforting phrase would your creature say to you?
____________________________

Keep this sheet somewhere you can see it when you miss someone. Your comfort creature is always with you!

Coping Strategies Chart

When you feel sad or miss someone, try one of these simple strategies to help your heart feel a little lighter:

Keep this chart handy and pick the strategy that feels best in the moment. You can do it anytime you need a comforting moment!