Understanding Thoughts: Psychology Toolkit

A child-friendly psychology toolkit for ages 8–11, helping children understand what thoughts are, notice their own thoughts and explore how thoughts work.

Understanding Thoughts introduces children to the idea that thoughts are the words and pictures our brains make. Through colourful, practical activities, children can explore the thoughts they notice in everyday situations and begin to understand that thoughts can come and go, influence what we do, and are not always facts.

What’s included:

1 illustrated Learn page introducing thoughts
3 Explore activities
Adult Guide with ideas for introducing and using the resource

The activities encourage children to notice and explore their own experiences rather than looking for a single “right” answer. They can be used flexibly rather than needing to be completed in a particular order.

Useful for:
ELSA sessions, SEND support, pastoral work, emotional literacy, individual or small-group work, and conversations at home.

Designed primarily for children aged 8–11, with clear visual explanations and practical activities that can be adapted to the individual child.

Evidence-informed and neurodiversity-affirming.

Created by Dr Sarah Cook, HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist.

Understanding Thoughts is part of The Curious Brain Toolkit™, a collection of practical, child-friendly psychology resources designed to help children notice, understand and get curious about their thoughts, feelings, body clues and behaviour.