Free Printable Feelings Thermometer for Kids – A feelings thermometer is a simple visual tool that helps children (and adults) identify, name, and rate the intensity of their emotions. It looks like a regular thermometer but uses colors, numbers, or zones—from calm/cool at the bottom to intense or “hot” feelings at the top. Kids point to or color the level that matches how they feel in the moment. This supports social-emotional learning (SEL), emotional regulation, and clearer communication at home or in the classroom.
These free printable versions are especially popular with U.S. parents, teachers, counselors, and caregivers because they require no special materials beyond a printer and work well for young children through elementary ages.
Why Use a Feelings Thermometer?
Many children struggle to put big feelings into words. A feelings thermometer bridges that gap by giving them a concrete scale. Research-backed approaches to emotional awareness show that simply naming a feeling and identifying a coping step can lower intensity. The tool works for daily check-ins, calm-down corners, morning meetings, after-school transitions, or one-on-one conversations. It also pairs well with Zones of Regulation-style language many U.S. schools already use.
How to Use a Free Printable Feelings Thermometer?
Print the page on regular paper or cardstock. Laminate it for durability and reuse with dry-erase markers if desired. Introduce it when everyone is calm:
- Explain the scale (for example, 1 = calm/happy, 5 = very upset or furious).
- Practice pointing to or coloring different levels with everyday examples.
- Ask simple questions: “Which zone are you in right now? What does your body feel like? What could help move you toward the calm zone?”
- Keep it visible on the fridge, desk, or calm-down space.
- Use it proactively (morning check-in) and during rising emotions, not only in crisis.
Some versions include suggested coping strategies next to each level (deep breaths, movement, talking to someone). Others leave space for families or classes to write their own.
Where to Get Legitimate Free Printable Feelings Thermometers?
Here are trusted, currently available free resources. All are designed for easy home or classroom printing.
The most authoritative U.S. source is the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health. Their Feelings Thermometer (available in multiple languages, including English and Spanish) shows color zones from calm to furious along with practical ideas for shifting mood. Download the English version with how-to guide and other language options directly from their official page:
Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health Feelings Thermometer.
They also offer an Early Childhood version suited for ages 0–5.
A clear, kid-friendly single-scale printable is available as a direct PDF from Mindfulmazing:
Free Feelings Thermometer PDF (Mindfulmazing).
Very Special Tales provides a free printable PDF with two versions—one with separate thermometers for multiple emotions and one combined check-in scale:
Feelings Thermometer for Kids Free Printable (Very Special Tales).
These three sources cover official, classroom-ready, and activity-oriented options without requiring payment. Always print from the linked pages to ensure you receive the current free version.
Free Printable Feelings Thermometer for Kids
Practical Tips for Best Results
- Match the design to the child’s age and needs (simple faces and colors for younger kids; more emotion words or customizable spaces for older ones).
- Model it yourself: “I’m at a 3 right now—I’m going to take three deep breaths.”
- Combine with other SEL tools such as feelings charts or calm-down strategy cards.
- Revisit and update coping ideas as the child grows.
- For classrooms, use it during morning meetings or as a shared visual in a calm-down area.
Brief FAQ
Is a feelings thermometer only for anger?
No. Many versions cover a range of emotions (happy, sad, worried, frustrated, calm). Some focus on one feeling; others show mixed or general intensity.
What age is it best for?
Preschool through elementary works especially well. Simplified gauges with faces help the youngest children; older kids can add their own words and strategies.
Do I need special paper or software?
No. Standard letter-size paper and a basic printer are enough. Cardstock and lamination increase longevity for repeated classroom or home use.
A free printable feelings thermometer is an inexpensive, high-impact way to build emotional vocabulary and self-regulation skills. Start with the Wisconsin official version or one of the other free PDFs linked above, introduce it calmly, and keep it accessible. Consistent use helps children move from “I don’t know how I feel” to recognizing their emotional temperature and choosing helpful next steps.