Understanding feelings game / emotions game
A printable emotions board game designed to help children explore, recognise and talk about feelings in a gentle, supportive way.
The Big Feelings Game is a fun emotional literacy resource for children, suitable for use in the classroom, small groups, SEN support, nurture groups, PSHE lessons, wellbeing sessions, therapy-style activities, home school settings, or at home.
Rather than telling children how they should feel, the game encourages them to reflect on their own emotions, learn about different feelings, and understand that everyone experiences emotions differently. Children can answer, listen, pass, or think quietly, making the game flexible for different confidence and communication levels.
What’s Included
Printable game instructions
Printable emotions board game
72 printable cards
3 card decks: Feelings Cards, Challenge Cards, and Did You Know? Cards
Optional card backs/icons for easier sorting
A4 version
Square board version
Suitable for 2–6 players
Card Types Included
Feelings Cards
Question cards to help children think about emotions, experiences, body signals, coping strategies, and what helps them with big feelings.
Challenge Cards
Movement-based cards with positive statements, such as breathing, stretching, movement, confidence phrases, and simple regulation activities.
Did You Know? Cards
Short child-friendly facts about feelings, the brain, wellbeing, calming strategies, confidence, and emotional regulation.
How to Play
Print the board and cards, cut out the card pieces, and use with a standard dice and small counters, coins, buttons, or objects as playing pieces.
Players roll the dice, move around the board, and follow the instruction on the space they land on. Some spaces ask players to pick a card, move forward or back, miss a turn, roll again, swap places, or pause and enjoy the moment.
Suitable For
EYFS
KS1
Lower KS2
Primary classrooms
SEN support
Nurture groups
PSHE lessons
Emotional literacy sessions
Wellbeing activities
Calm corners
Small group work
Homeschool
Family support activities
Skills Supported
This resource can support:
Emotional literacy
Naming and recognising feelings
Self-awareness
Turn-taking
Listening skills
Reflection
Confidence building
Positive communication
Social emotional learning
Understanding that feelings are normal
Gentle discussion around big feelings
Flexible Use
This game is designed to meet children where they are. Children do not have to speak or answer every question. They can pass, listen, reflect quietly, or take part in a way that feels manageable. Adults can adapt the game depending on the needs, confidence, and communication style of the child or group.


