Download this free Daily Feelings Check-In worksheet for kids aged 7–12. Help children name their emotions, understand why they feel that way, and discover what helps them. Informed by UK research on emotional wellbeing. Perfect for parents, teachers & counsellors. US Letter & A4 formats included.
Build Emotional Awareness & Regulation
Every child feels big emotions — sometimes all before breakfast! But many kids (and even adults) struggle to name exactly what they’re feeling, let alone know what might help.
That’s why I created this free Daily Feelings Check-In worksheet as part of my monthly free resources. It’s a simple, gentle tool that helps children aged 7–12 develop emotional vocabulary, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.
Why This Worksheet Matters
Research from the UK shows that children who learn to identify and talk about their emotions develop better emotional regulation, stronger relationships, and improved wellbeing. For example, the Education Endowment Foundation’s evidence review found that social and emotional learning approaches help pupils manage their emotions and interact better with others, leading to measurable improvements in wellbeing and academic progress. Similarly, a major DfE-commissioned study showed that children with higher emotional wellbeing make more progress in primary school and are more engaged in secondary school. The Anna Freud National Centre’s 2025 Education for Wellbeing trial also demonstrated that teaching children to understand and normalise everyday emotions (through simple daily practices) significantly boosts mental health and helps prevent difficulties from escalating.
This simple daily check-in turns big feelings into manageable moments and opens the door for meaningful conversations at home or in the classroom — exactly the kind of supportive dialogue that these studies highlight as key to building emotional skills.
What’s Inside the Daily Feelings Check-In Worksheet
The printable includes:
- 8 child-friendly emotions with diverse illustrations: Angry, Bored, Calm, Confused, Happy, Excited, Frightened, and Anxious.
- Three clear sections:
- How I feel today (quick check-box)
- Why I feel this way (space to write or draw)
- What might help (encourages positive coping strategies)
- A Teacher Guidance Page with suggested prompts, usage ideas, and tips for parents and educators.
Available in both US Letter and A4 sizes so you can print it anywhere in the world.
How to Use the Daily Feelings Check-In
- Print one copy per child.
- Check the emotion that best matches how they feel today.
- Write or draw in the reflection boxes.
- Talk through the adult prompts on the guidance page.
Helpful prompts to use together:
- What happened that made you feel this way?
- When did this feeling start today?
- What helps you when you feel like this?
- Who could help you if you need support?
Download Your Free Worksheet Now
This resource is part of my Free Monthly SEL Printables series. New gentle, high-quality tools drop on the first of every month — feel free to bookmark this page or follow me on Pinterest so you never miss one!
I like the daily check-in format because it gives children a concrete way to pause and name what is happening inside. For ages 7 to 12, that small routine can be easier than starting with a big conversation. Drawing or coloring can also help some children express feelings before they have all the words.
Thank you for you comment. I’m glad you find the daily check in helpful. Susie