This activity can be used in small groups or pairs to foster emotional recognition and communication. It is particularly effective at the start of the day or after emotionally intense activities (e.g., after recess or a conflict). Children take turns mimicking a feeling, while their partner guesses the emotion and asks a follow-up question like “When do you feel that way?” or “What helps you when you feel that emotion?”
Here are some concrete examples:
- Example 1 – Step-by-step (Sadness)
- Child A slouches their shoulders, looks down, and sighs quietly.
- Child B observes and guesses: “Are you feeling sad?”
- Child A responds: “Yes.”
- Child B follows up: “When do you feel sad?”
- Child A answers: “When my best friend is absent from school.”
- Example 2 – Joy:
A child jumps lightly, smiles wide, and claps. Their partner says, “You’re happy!” The child says, “Yes, I feel that way when we have art class.” - Example 3 – Frustration:
A child crosses their arms, furrows their brow, and lets out a short “Ugh!” sound. Their partner guesses: “Frustrated?” and asks, “What makes you feel that way?” The child replies, “When I can’t finish a puzzle.” - Example 4 – Shyness:
A child hides their face slightly and shrinks their posture. The partner says, “Are you feeling shy?” and the child replies, “Yes, when I meet someone new.”