5 Coping Skills for Big Emotions

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“I feel…” worksheets differentiated for PreK-5th grade students.

As educators and school counselors, one of the most important things we can teach students is how to manage their emotions, especially when those emotions feel overwhelming. Sometimes, students feel sad, mad, or upset, and that’s okay! These emotions are a natural part of growing up, but it’s essential to teach children simple coping skills to manage them in healthy ways. Here are five easy and effective coping skills your students can use when big emotions take over.

1. Create a Calm Corner

A dedicated "calm-down corner" or "peace place" in the classroom provides a space where students can go when they need a break or practice a calming activity. Set up a cozy corner in your classroom with soft cushions, calming visuals, and sensory tools. Teach students that this is a special place for them to go independently when they need a moment to reset their emotions. Model when and how to use the space through role playing. Check out this “Take Some Space and Time…” themed Calm Corner here.

2. Use a Sensory Tool like Playdough

Sensory activities can be incredibly helpful for young children who need to manage their emotions or refocus. Playdough, squishy toys, or textured fabric can help students engage their hands and minds, redirecting their attention from big emotions to something soothing and fun. In particular, Playdough can be used to help students regulate their emotions by giving them something to squeeze, mold, or manipulate. Check out these “Playdough Feelings Mats” here.

3. Foster Creative Expression Through Drawing or Writing

Children may not always have the words to express what they're feeling. Encouraging them to draw or write about their emotions can provide an outlet for expression and help them process their feelings. Drawing a picture of their emotions—whether it’s a storm cloud for anger or a big smile for happiness—gives students a chance to externalize their feelings. For students who can write, encourage them to jot down a few words or sentences that describe how they’re feeling. Check out these FREEBIE “I feel…” drawing and writing worksheets here.

4. Incorporate Movement Breaks

Physical movement is a great way to help children release built-up energy or frustration. When children feel overwhelmed, encourage them to take a movement break. Simple activities like stretching, hopping, or even dancing to music can help students reset and focus. Try setting up designated times during the day where students can participate in short, fun exercises. You could play a quick game of “Freeze Dance,” have them jump like frogs, do a few simple stretches, or lead a movement based “Simon Says” game.

5. Identify Emotions with the Help of a Feelings Chart

A feelings chart is a wonderful tool for helping students identify and communicate their emotions. Recognizing their emotions is the first step in learning how to cope with them. Hang a feelings chart in the classroom with images of various emotions and encourage students to point to the one that best represents how they’re feeling. This can be part of your daily routine, allowing students to check in with how they’re feeling at the start or end of the day. Check out this Holiday Themed Emotions Activities SEL Bundle to swap out your feelings charts with the holidays and seasons.

With these five simple coping skills, you can help your students build a toolkit for handling big emotions. The more your students practice these strategies, the more confident they will become in managing their emotions effectively. By providing students with tools to cope, you’re setting them up for long-term success in managing their emotions—both in and outside of the classroom.