Faces of How We Feel

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	Basic
	Age: 3-5
	10-15 min
	Children pick an emoticon face, name the feeling, share examples, and place it on a wall to build a collection of emotions together.
	Self-regulation Communication Empathy Growth mindset
	Cognitive task Conversation Parents
	Sheets of paper Colored pencils Scissors Glue Markers Crayons Pencils Double-sided adhesive felt or sticky tack Laminator and laminating foil (optional, for durability) Box or basket to hold the emoticon faces

Preparation

Use ready-made worksheet or prepare your own cards by printing and using laminator pouches. Gather all the emoticon faces and place them in a box or basket for the children to choose from. Attach a piece of adhesive (such as double-sided tape or reusable sticky tack) to the back of each emoticon so children can stick them on a surface or wall during the activity.

Implementation

Each child takes a turn by standing up and choosing an emoticon from a box or basket. Together with the group, they name the emotion shown on the face and talk about situations in which people might feel that way. Other children are encouraged to add their own ideas and examples.

After the short discussion, the child sticks the chosen face onto a large poster or board where all the emotions will be collected.

Reflection

End with a group conversation about how the children felt during the game. Did they enjoy picking and talking about the feelings? Would they like to play again another day?

Variations and Additional Ideas

Prepare extra situation cards showing different everyday scenes that might trigger emotions (e.g. a child taking away a toy from another child). These pictures can support children in understanding the task and help them express their ideas more easily.

Start with the basic emotions: joy, sadness, anger, surprise, and fear. Later, you can expand the activity by adding more complex feelings like shame, disgust, or pride.

You can also invite children to choose an emoticon that represents how they are feeling right now. Encourage them to share why they feel that way, if they are comfortable doing so.

Worksheet "Emoticon Faces" 1

Worksheet "Emoticon Faces" 2