Sometimes I Feel Excited: Name Your Emotions
Feelings Matter Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
A journey through the emotional spectrum, teaching children how to express and understand their emotions creatively. What does it mean to be excited? Everyone feels excited sometimes! Children will learn how to identify when they are excited and ways to manage their feelings. Large, vivid photos help illustrate what excitement looks like. A mindfulness activity will give kids an opportunity to explore their feelings.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the character in the book express their excitement? Can you show me how you express it?
Can you name a time when you felt like the character in the book? What was happening?
What are some other emotions the character felt? How do you feel when you experience those emotions?
Why do you think understanding our emotions is important?
How can we help each other when we are feeling strong emotions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child how they are feeling and why, to set the stage for connecting with the book's themes.
While reading, pause at key moments to ask your child how they think the character is feeling and why, helping them develop empathy and emotional vocabulary.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or act out different emotions mentioned in the book, reinforcing their understanding through creative expression.
Use the book as a reference point in daily life when your child expresses similar emotions, reminding them of the character's experiences and responses.
Create a 'feelings journal' together with your child where they can write or draw about their emotions, linking back to the book's themes and discussions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Recognizing and Naming Emotions
Explanation: Through engaging and relatable scenarios, the book guides children on how to identify and articulate their feelings.
Real-World Application: Helps children communicate their emotions more effectively at home and in school, fostering better interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Understanding that Emotions are Normal
Explanation: Each page validates various emotions, reinforcing that it's normal and okay to feel them.
Real-World Application: Children learn to accept their feelings without guilt or fear, promoting a healthier mental and emotional outlook.
Example Lesson: Developing Empathy
Explanation: As children read about different emotions, they gain insights into what others might feel in similar circumstances.
Real-World Application: This understanding nurtures empathy, aiding children in becoming more compassionate and supportive peers.