TinyStepper
Parent and curly-haired toddler cuddled on a green sofa reading a picture book together

Feelings Face Game

Show happy, sad, and angry faces — name each one and ask 'How does teddy feel?'

Activity details

20m–3y8 minslowindoorConstruction PaperStuffed Animals

Instructions

Get ready
  • Draw 3 simple faces on paper: happy (smile), sad (frown), angry (V eyebrows)
  • Show the happy face: 'This is HAPPY! See the big smile?'
  1. Draw 3 simple faces on paper: happy (smile), sad (frown), angry (V eyebrows)
  2. Show the happy face: 'This is HAPPY! See the big smile?'
  3. Make a happy face yourself: 'I'm happy too!'
  4. Show the sad face: 'This face is SAD. Aww.'
  5. Hold up a teddy: 'How does teddy feel today?'
  6. Offer two faces for toddler to choose
  7. Name their choice: 'Teddy is HAPPY today!'

Parent tip

Set out construction paper and stuffed animals before inviting your toddler in so the first minute feels smooth.

Relaxed child lying on a floor cushion with blanket and pinwheel in a cosy calm corner

What success looks like

A few quiet minutes together without pressure. If your child relaxes even slightly, that’s self-regulation building.

Draw or find pictures of simple emotion faces: happy, sad, angry, surprised. Show each one and name it with a matching expression on your own face: 'This face is SAD. Look — sad!' Then hold up a teddy: 'How does teddy feel? Is teddy happy... or sad?' Let toddler point or say the word. Naming emotions is one of the most valuable vocabulary sets for toddlers — it gives them words for feelings they already have.

Why it helps

Emotion vocabulary is crucial for self-regulation — children who can name their feelings are better able to manage them. This bridge between language development and emotional regulation is why behaviour guides often recommend naming emotions. The game format makes emotional vocabulary playful rather than serious. Zero to Three explains that toddlers need repeated, safe chances to practise handling big feelings before they can manage them on their own.

Variations

  • Make faces in a mirror together — 'Show me your happy face!'
  • Read a book about feelings and pause: 'How is the bear feeling?'
  • Connect to real moments: 'You're crying. You feel sad. That's okay.'

Safety tips

  • Keep it light and fun — don't dwell on the 'angry' or 'sad' faces.
  • If toddler gets upset looking at a sad face, move to happy immediately.
  • Use simple faces — not scary or exaggerated angry expressions.

Want to try another?

Bedtime Light Show

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