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A printable Inside Out emotions chart is a simple visual tool that helps children identify, name, and discuss their feelings. Inspired by the emotions represented in the Inside Out films, these charts often include characters or color-coded sections for feelings such as joy, sadness, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise. The pictures make emotional vocabulary easier to understand, especially for children who are still learning how to describe what is happening inside.
Who Can Use an Inside Out Emotions Chart?
This printable is useful for parents, teachers, counselors, therapists, and childcare providers. It can support preschool and elementary-age children during morning meetings, classroom social-emotional learning lessons, quiet-time conversations, or transitions between activities. Families can also keep one on the refrigerator, bedroom wall, or a calm-down space.
The chart may be especially helpful for children who have trouble explaining their feelings verbally. Pointing to a character or emotion gives them a low-pressure way to begin communicating. Adults can then ask gentle follow-up questions without demanding an immediate explanation.
How to Use the Chart
- Invite a check-in. Ask, “Which feeling matches you right now?” Allow the child to point, circle, or place a small marker beside an emotion.
- Ask about the situation. Use questions such as “What happened?” or “When did you start feeling that way?” Keep the conversation brief if the child seems overwhelmed.
- Notice intensity. Ask whether the feeling is a little, medium, or very strong. This helps children understand that emotions can change in size.
- Choose a helpful response. Depending on the feeling, suggest taking breaths, getting water, asking for space, talking with an adult, drawing, or trying again later.
- Review patterns. Use the chart at the same time each day to notice recurring feelings, difficult transitions, or situations that need additional support.
Practical Printing Tips
- Print on standard US Letter paper at 100% or “actual size” to keep the layout easy to read.
- Use color printing when possible because color helps children connect visual sections with specific emotions.
- Choose cardstock for a sturdier chart, or laminate a regular copy for repeated use.
- Leave a small dry-erase marker nearby if the chart will be used for daily check-ins.
- For a classroom, print one large copy for group use and several smaller copies for individual desks or calm-down areas.
An emotions chart is not a diagnostic tool or a substitute for professional support. Its purpose is to create a shared vocabulary so children can begin recognizing feelings, explaining their experiences, and practicing healthy ways to respond.
Where to Find and Print Printable Inside Out Emotions Chart
Inside Out Emotions Wheel Printable
A direct printable activity that uses an emotions wheel format and includes preparation guidance for printing, cutting, and assembling the page.
Feelings Thermometer and Inside Out Feelings PDF
An authoritative PDF resource featuring an Inside Out-style feelings chart with multiple emotion labels and related feeling words for discussion and check-ins.