Animal Emotion Match

Connecting emotions to animals helps children understand feelings.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Jungles
• Learning area: Social and Emotional Development
• Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception

Objectives

• Identify emotions in self and others
• Express feelings appropriately
• Build empathy

Materials

• Emotion face cards
• Animal puppets
• Feelings chart

Instructions

How does this tiger feel? (Show angry face) When do you feel like that?

Educator tip

Accept all emotional expressions. Focus on naming, not fixing.

Assessment

Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe emotion recognition and expression.

More from EYFS Jungles

• Protecting Our Jungle
• Jungle Conflict Resolution
• Deforestation Discussion
• Rainforest Food Web
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Jungle
• Carbon and Trees
• Jungle Shadow Play
• Nocturnal vs. Diurnal